Winter Catch and Release mortality

[joeD]

If fish hated cold water, then they would pack their bags and leave. 

How is a sharp hook in a fish's mouth more stressful in winter?

Why do we think fish conserve energy in winter?  Like a bear? Just because we are uncomfortable, doesn't mean they are.

If you catch a fish, then release it, and it swims away, then chances are, it'll live. If you catch a fish and put it on a stringer to eat later, then it won't live.

That's about it. Unless you can lovingly entice them into your hands with your fish empathy.

 

[Haris122]

Well, my thinking was that a fish that spends close to the same amount of energy in what it perceives as a potential life and death struggle, in the winter, when it's harder for it to regain said energy, is probably more likely to die from being caught repeatedly during that time, especially if smaller. As it turns out that may not be the case, but it's a worthwhile question to ask if they do actually pack up and head to warmer water such as springs, if close nearby, as has been discussed in some prior topics.

I know for someone like you (i.e. all knowing), such a question may seem stupid, but it won't stop me asking it if I'm curious about it. If that upsets you, then tough dung, don't answer.