RELEASE RECOVERY

Tracking the time it takes billfish to recover after release

- BY RYAN K. LOGAN, M.S.

Considered by many to be ultimate gamefish, blue marlin and sailfish are found worldwide in both tropical and subtropical waters. Noted for their high-speed runs, strong fights, and aerial acrobatics, these are some of the most sought-after fish in offshore angling. Recreational fishing for these charismatic species continues to increase around the world, providing considerable economic benefit, and prompting many countries to mandate catch-and-release practices for perceived conservation.

For the angler, a fight with a billfish consists of a fast-paced, high-energy battle of wills that hopefully culminates in a safe release, some high-fives, and a quick redeployment of the spread for the next one. But for the fish, this is a fight for its life. It uses a tremendous amount of energy doing so, and it is precisely those high-speed runs and aerial acrobatics that beg the question: How long does it take them to physically recover from that fight after being released?

SURVIVAL OF THE FITTEST

Previous research into the survival of several billfish, depending on the species, has shown that approximately 86 percent survive to fight another day after being released. This is good news for anglers, and suggests that recreational catch-and-release is-and continues to be a successful management practice to conserve billfish populations. However, how the behavior of the billfish changes and how long it takes for the fish to recover have received far less attention, and could have important implications.