Although there is no silver spoon, as the title suggests, we feel there is nothing more important in native fishing than the safe handling of these majestic Aussie icons.
As the close confine of a Hobie doesn’t afford the angler storage luxury for a 200L Environet, you have to be acutely aware of your environment and permenatley on the lookout for shallow mooring spots. This means a quick kayak exit has become as regular a discussion point as lure choice and applying sunscreen.
The use of large FishGrips has become the preferred weapon of choice to reduce the chances of wearing a set of trebles. This handy floating tool is quickly and cautiously swapped for one of our hands (preferably with a glove) after the fish settles.
This is predominantly for the wellbeing of the fish, as you want to minimize any possibility of damaging the gobs of these great greenfish. We also feel as though you are able to get a better grip to hoist your catch for the all important photo.
While talking about happy snaps, keeping the fish in the drink with freshwater constantly channeling through its gills will reduce the red blush that occurs when a Murray cod is significantly stressed. Keeping oxygenated water flowing through the gills will also help remove any lactate developed during the fight.
Although these tips may be starting to sound like a broken record from our end, it’s an important message to remind any greenfish greenhorns of the precautions required to protect these regal creatures.