As we head into the summer holidays, many of us are keen to get out on the water and enjoy what our ocean has to offer. Chucking a line out with mates or family is the Kiwi way to slow down and unwind. 

This summer, by changing a few habits, we can all minimise our impact and contribute towards restoring our coastal fisheries. After all, we want to be able to enjoy this resource for many more years to come.

It’s been a big year for us at LegaSea. We’ve spent much of it pushing back against multiple government proposals that threaten to exploit more fish from our waters. Time spent out on the water, breathing in the salty air, cements why the fight for abundance matters. 

But the fight doesn’t stop at the keyboard. Restoring our coastal fisheries takes many forms. While holding government officials accountable is crucial, recreational fishers can also play a part by respecting the ocean and the fish we catch. 

One of the easiest things you can do is change the hooks you are using. Research suggests that traditional ‘J’ shaped hooks are more likely to gut-hook or foul-hook snapper. Fish hooked this way are less likely to survive after being released. 

While survival might not matter if the fish you catch is big enough to take home, it does matter if the fish is too small and must go back.

By switching from a ‘J’ hook to a circle hook, the fish is more likely to be hooked in the lip. This small change dramatically improves survival rates. Inflicting less harm is important so the little fish can continue to grow, produce more snapper and contribute towards sustaining the fishery for the future. Good handling also matters – wet hands and getting the fish back in the water as soon as possible all help released fish survive.

Another simple habit that leaves a positive impact is reducing waste. This summer, adopt a “keep only what you need” approach. Or if you can’t eat all the fish you caught, share it with your neighbours. Have you seen the price of fish in the supermarket lately? Fresh fish goes a long way.

What about the fish heads and frames you usually toss overboard? These are some of the most valued parts of the fish for Māori and Pacifica communities, yet many of us waste around 70% of every fish without a second thought. 

Utilisation is conservation. Sharing the unwanted parts from your freshly caught fish is one of the easiest ways to ensure others enjoy kaimoana without killing more fish. 

Alongside Matt Watson, LegaSea has relaunched the Free Fish Heads app, a place where you can easily share your chilled unwanted fish heads and frames with people who value them. Download the app and start sharing today.

Let’s leave a positive impact on and off the water this summer. For those wanting to make a lasting  impact, sign up to receive our LegaSea newsletters to stay informed for more ways to help restore our coastal fisheries.