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N.D. (Newsdakota.com) – North Dakota’s open fishing season has many anglers hoping to catch the elusive trophy fish, others simply enjoy the thrill of catch and return.

The North Dakota Game & Fish Department say there is a right way to return fish if you’re catching and then releasing the fish. Game & Fish Biologist Doug Leier says catch-and-release has become a very popular form of fishing.

Some of the rules for catch-and-release to be properly done include landing the fish quickly. Don’t play the fish to exhaustion while attempting to bring it in. Bring a needle-nose pliers or similar tool to remove the hook. If the hook is deep, cut the line close to the mouth. If possible, hold the fish in the water while preparing it for release. Don’t throw the fish into the water.

Leier stated that these are all important for fishers participating in catch-and-release.

You can learn more on the North Dakota Game & Fish Department’s website at gf.nd.gov.