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ErgsjSW"1* Survival rate proves small for most species of fish It's a tough world for the offspring of all species of fish, according to Dr. Harold Namminga of the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation. For largemouth bass, less than five per­ cent in natural reproduction ever sur­ vive to catchable size. "Water levels, predators, wave ac­ tion, and general-spawning habitat all have significant impact on the chances of survival in fingerlings," Dr. Namm­ inga explained. These environmental conditions serve to emphasize the importance of treating your catch so that it can be returned to the water, to be caught again. Catching and keeping are two entirely different aspects of fishing. Keeping your fish is encouraged when plans have been made to roll your catch in bread crumbs and throw them in the frying pan. The same is true when you have a place on your den wall already chosen for your trophy. Catching, on the other hand, is something all anglers like to do, but not all fishermen do well. Too often, fish are roughly handled and thrown back, with the expectation that they will live. This is not always the case. Fish have a pro­ tective mucus, a disease barrier, that covers their bodies. When this mucus is Boating is a popular recreational activity the world over. Residents of Nor­ thern Illinois are fortunate to live near many bodies of water in Illinois and in Wisconsin which offer boating, sailing, fishing and water skiing. The Fox River and the Chain 0' Lakes in McHenry and Lake counties will at- the boat, for example), the fish are tract thousands this summer. removed (by scraping along the side of • example), much less likely to survive. The secret to releasing a fish is to try to keep it in the water at all times. Reel your catch in as close as you can to the position where you are fishing. Next, follow the line from the rod tip to your bait or lure, grasping the fish firmly in one hand, and the bait or lure in the other. Now, gently work the fish against the hook, pushing the hook out as you are lifting. By leaving your catch in the water, you are exercising another benefit Fish, in their natural environment are supported by the buoyancy of the water. Pulling the fish out of its habitat causes severe stress on the physical structure mainly its organs and muscle tissue. Naturally, this method presents pro­ blems with larger fish that have more pronounced teeth. Pike and muskie can be held stationary by gripping them over the head and gill covers. Never handle a fish by grasping it around the midsection, as all species will suffer damage after being squeezed too hard. Minimize contact and out-of-water time for your catch. Bass and trout can be immobilized by clamping the lower jaw between your thumb and forefinger, making the release even easier. There are products on the market that can also be of help, such as hook removers that come in a variety of styles, making a good tool for any tackle box. <§LANDSCAPE CENTER f inbwCyn Hails 4 AccmnHM Slid*t*lMt«rs Tottor»*Sond Box«t Plus Much, Much Moral Solo Ends Juno 15,1984 If* it 31 Best Backyard Fun the Block TimberCym TimberGvm the - backyard playground with all the fun and excitement of a schoolyard or park. But at family prices. TimberGvm. swinging, sliding, climbing, crawling. Keeps children family centered. A delight for the most energetic child. MANY MODELS! SIZES! PRICES! 60 fttn of experience in the Nursery I Ltndsctpmg Business oOFF