Humane fishing

Humane fishing- a must for flyfishermen

When fishing our beautiful rivers, be aware that these trout need a long time to grow up in the cold waters. To preserve these natural stocks, the daily catch must be limited and all precautions should be taken not to bless or harm the fish that takes your fly.

Please note that Swiss animal welfare legislation is applicable on fish and states:

- fishing with barbless hooks only (exceptions in lakes possible)
- no C&R fishing waters allowed (nevertheless, you can put back your fish, if not seriously harmed- exceptions possible - read local fishing rules)
- seriously harmed fish have to be killed immediately
- for fishing permits longer than 1 month you need a proof of capability (lessons minimal 5 hours with exam)

Furthermore, you have to do all what is possible to reduce any harm to the fish

- drill as short as possible
- fishing only where you can put back the fish gently (do not throw back)
- try whenever possible to unhook in the water
- never touch a fish with dry hands

Not least, our behaviour on the water and in society is also important for the future of fishing. Only one percent of our population is still actively fishing. However, many Swiss people support the sustainable use of natural resources.

We must do everything we can to ensure the sustainability and protection of fish. Where necessary, we must politically engage, network and fight together for water and fish.

The future lies in sustainable and animal-friendly fishing in clean, near-natural waters.

Comprehensive water protection, renaturation and the protection of valuable spawning animals will make it possible to maintain stocks through natural reproduction instead of stock farming.

Under certain circumstances, the fish in the mountain rivers take the fly eagerly. On these days, we suggest to fly-fish without hooks, whenever fishing for a trout you want to release. This may be a new experience for most fishermen, but believe me, it's great fun and will never harm any fish.

Read: Hookless Fly-Fishing Is a Humane Advance published by Pete Bodo in "The New York Times (1999) " and see the video below

See the video about teasing- why not giving a try?	Teasing fly- a fly without a hook