Catch and release means returning every fish to the water. To make sure it survives, use barbless hooks, keep the fight short, wet your hands and minimise air time.
On Slovenian rivers, catch and release is practically the norm. The vast majority of fly anglers, especially visitors, return their fish, and many of the best districts are catch-and-release only. But releasing a fish does not guarantee it survives. How you do it matters.
Why catch and release?
Clear alpine rivers have limited capacity. Every big fish that stays in the river can spawn and be caught again. This approach is why the Soča, Idrijca, Unica and other rivers hold such good populations of marble trout, grayling and brown trout.
1. Barbless hooks
A barbless hook comes out faster and causes less damage, and it is mandatory in most fly-fishing districts. Simply crush the barb with forceps before tying on the fly.
2. Keep the fight short
A long fight exhausts the fish and builds up lactic acid. Use a tippet strong enough to bring the fish in firmly. This matters most in summer, when water is warmer and holds less oxygen.
3. Use a rubber-mesh net
Rubber mesh does not damage scales or slime and does not tangle fins and hooks. Let the fish rest in the net in the water while you remove the hook.
4. Wet hands, minimal handling
- Handle fish only with wet hands, as dry hands damage the protective slime.
- Do not squeeze the fish or touch its gills.
- Never lay it on dry rocks or grass.
5. Photos? Make them quick
Keep the fish out of the water for no more than a few seconds. Have the camera ready, lift the fish just above the surface and return it immediately. Some of the best photos are taken with the fish still in the water.
6. Release properly
Hold the fish in the water facing upstream, in a calmer spot, until it swims away on its own. Do not throw it back or pull it back and forth. If it is tired, give it time.
When not to fish
When water temperatures are very high and levels are low, fish are stressed. Fish early in the morning or choose cooler waters instead. We always take this into account when guiding.
FAQ: catch and release
Do fish really survive after release?
With proper handling, the vast majority do. A short fight, quick hook removal and minimal time out of water are the keys to successful catch and release.
Is catch and release mandatory in Slovenia?
It is mandatory in catch-and-release districts; elsewhere anglers decide for themselves. The rules are listed in each district’s regulations.
What if a fish is bleeding?
If a fish is deeply hooked or bleeding from the gills, cut the line as close to the mouth as possible and return it gently. In catch-and-keep districts you may keep it within the rules.
Where can I learn more about fishing in Slovenia?
See the official portal Slovenia.info.
How to photograph a fish for catch and release
Have your camera ready before you lift the fish. Hold it low over the water with two wet hands, one under the pectoral fins and one in front of the tail. Take a few quick shots and release it immediately. Photos with the fish still in the water or in the net are often the best.
Catch and release on our trips
On all our trips and courses we teach proper fish handling. If you are just starting out, our fly fishing school is the perfect place to begin. For local rules, read our guide to fishing permits in Slovenia.
Questions? Contact us.
