YakAngler.com Length Record Rules
Click here for the Length Record Form
General Information
All fish entered for Length Records must be measured by kayak anglers at the site of capture and released so that it swims away on their own and in good condition (unless the fish is considered to be invasive and the angler is required to remove the fish from the environment). Fish should be revived by moving it forward in the water to ensure a healthy release.
All YakAngler rules and equipment regulations stipulated for fishing with conventional and fly tackle in fresh and saltwater shall apply with the exceptions below. All angling and equipment regulations shall apply until the fish is measured and released alive.
A. GAFFS & NETS
B. MEASURING DEVICE
1. All fish must be measured using a commercially available measuring device like the haw trough. For fish over 30 inches in length will be judged on an individual basis, please try to use a tape measure or the side of your kayak so we can accurately judge the size.
Angling Regulations
The following acts will disqualify a catch:
Length Record Requirements
A. MEASURING REQUIREMENTS
B. MINIMUM LENGTH REQUIREMENTS NEEDED TO DEFEAT OR TIE EXISTING RECORDS
C. PHOTOGRAPHIC REQUIREMENTS
Photographs uploaded with applications must contain the following information.
General Best Handling Practices
To remove your fish from the water to document it for record purposes, anglers should use either hands or a knotless, rubberized landing net to minimize slime and scale loss. Lip gripping devices may be used to help subdue fish. However, large fish should not be hoisted vertically out of the water, as this can cause damage to jaw muscle and bone as well as to internal organs. The best method for removing fish from the water by hand is to grip the fish or the lower jaw and support the fish’s underside. Again, the point is always to hold fish horizontally and not vertically.
Documentation
YakAngler records require pictures, measurement of the catch. All of this takes time, so you should have the necessary equipment ready before landing the fish. If the documentation process takes longer than several minutes, periodically place the fish back in the water or place in a live well to allow it to breath.
Releasing
Considerable time and care should be exercised when releasing fish. Fish should be placed in the water and held by the base of the tail. If the fish is does not swim away from your grasp on its own, gently move it forward in the water to get water flowing over the gills. For best results, move the fish in the forward direction only instead of back in forth. A fish’s gills somewhat resemble the pages of a book and are designed for water flow in only one direction. Moving the fish in a slow circle or gently towing it behind the boat will accomplish this.