"Catching and caring for Samson Fish" protocols.

Samson fish (Seriola hippos) are abundant along the lower west coast of Western Australia. They are known for their strong fighting abilities.

Growing numbers of recreational anglers participate in a catch-and-release fishery for this species, particularly off the Perth coastline where Samson fish aggregate in large numbers to spawn during summer.

In response to community concern about the sustainability of Samson fish stocks in the fishery, the Department of Fisheries commenced a three-year research study in 2004 to learn about the species and the impacts of the catch and release study on stocks. The study is known as 'Samson Science' and is notable for the way in which the community has made an active contribution to data collection.

From this program and associated research a number of protocols aimed at maximising the survival of fish released by anglers have been developed. These protocols are practical and easy to adopt. They can also be used on other species.



Contents of the brochure:-

Protocol 1: Use the right gear!	Protocol 2: Catching the fish...
Protocol 3: Landing the fish... and barotrauma.	Protocol 4: Minimise deck time!
Protocol 5: Releasing the fish.	Release weights.
Final Words:-

Samson Fishing Data Sheet.

Samson Fish length/weight tables.

You have caught a tagged fish? What to do.

Research angler log books.

See the full brochure from the WA Department of Fisheries website "Catching and caring for Samson Fish" (link opens in a new window)



This page last updated 11 November 2007.