Fishing for Solutions

Fishing is one of the most popular leisure activities worldwide. But did you know that more fish are released than kept?

I started fishing at a young age, and most of the fish I caught were let go. Fishing offered me an escape from a turbulent home life—it really did save me. When I found a path where I could study fish and their aquatic environments, I became appalled by how poorly fish and their home waters were being treated, whether by overharvesting, pollution, habitat loss, or other human-based disturbances. 

Since the early 2000s, much of my research has focused on fish species familiar to recreational fisherfolk—such as striped bass, bonefish, and trout—and how those fish respond to capture and handling. Evidence shows that the fate of fish following release is predominantly related to angler behavior. To make a difference, some of my research has helped shape science-based advice for recreational fishing set forth by Keep Fish Wet, a nonprofit started by anglers, working to distill everything scientists have learned about catch and release and to communicate it in an accessible, inclusive way. If these simple steps are followed, fish will have a much higher likelihood of surviving and thriving after being released.

All these factors become especially important in the face of climate change. Since anglers are the first line of defense in these warming waters, using objective research and following science-based techniques can lead to more fish swimming away healthy—and eventually to more resilient fisheries for all. 

Rather than confining his efforts purely to scientific journals, Andy Danylchuk, professor of fish conservation at UMass Amherst, spends a lot of time connecting with recreational anglers. He is currently the science advisor for Keep Fish Wet and serves as an ambassador for Patagonia Fly Fishing. 

See how UMass alum Gabe Crivelli ’23 gets local kids outside and hooked on fishing.