Abstract

In the Southeast United States, federally managed reef fish are highly targeted and regulated leading to a high magnitude of both harvest and releases. Reef fish, such as snapper and grouper, are commonly caught in deeper water (>10 meters) where they experience barotrauma, often leading to reduced survival post-release. Barotrauma refers to injuries fish experience from the change in pressure while being reeled up from depth. Impacts from barotrauma and release may lead to a significant portion of quotas being consumed by dead discards, reducing anglers fishing and harvest opportunities. Discard mortality has been at the forefront of reef fishery issues resulting in contention among stakeholders, fisheries scientists, and resource managers. Reducing dead discards and improving survival of released reef fish continues to be a high priority for fisheries managers. Anglers can improve survival of released reef fish suffering from barotrauma through venting or descending techniques. Although awareness of these practices varies geographically, anglers are generally more familiar with venting techniques in the Gulf of Mexico. Venting techniques improve survival when done properly, however, anglers can do more harm than good if they are not knowledgeable and experienced at venting. The use of descending devices has been proven to be an effective, and sometimes safer, way for recreational anglers to reduce discard mortality.

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