Fact-Checking Abbotsford Wharf: Is It Legal to Keep and Eat Your Catch West of the Harbour Bridge?

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Sport fishing in urban waterways west of the bridge has transformed almost exclusively into a catch-and-release pursuit. Targeting hard-fighting estuarine species without intending to keep table fare requires thoughtful handling techniques to ensure survival rates remain high.

Standard J-hooks often snag deep in the gut or gill rakers of predatory species. Inline circle hooks dramatically cut down internal injuries by sliding to the corner of the jaw as line tension builds. Replacing traditional treble hooks on hard-body lures with single barbless hooks speeds up hook removal and spares delicate mouth membranes.

Fish fought on ultra-light line suffer significant lactic acid buildup. Bringing fish in quickly, unhooking them using wet hands or knotless rubber landing nets, and minimizing air exposure prevents physiological stress. Holding a tired yellowfin bream gently facing upstream allows oxygen-rich water to flow naturally over its gills before it kicks free back into the river.