Every sailfish and marlin we catch goes back into the sea. Here is why, how it is done, and how you still get a great photo.
What we release
Sailfish and marlin are always released. So are roosterfish and jacks. For other fish, like tuna, mahi-mahi and snapper, the captain decides, following the rules, and the crew fillets what you keep.
Why the fish stays in the water
A billfish is heavy, and its body is not made to be lifted out of the water. Lifting it can hurt it, and time out of the water lowers its chance of survival. So we never lift billfish onto the boat. The fish stays in the water, next to the boat, while the hook comes out.
How a tired fish recovers
After a long fight, a fish is tired. The International Game Fish Association (IGFA) recommends holding it in the water and moving it slowly forward, so water flows over the gills. When it is strong again, it swims away on its own.
Getting your photo
You can still have your photo with the fish. The crew helps you lean over the side while the fish is in the water next to the boat. Keep your phone or camera in a dry bag and ready, because the photo happens fast.
Why it matters here
Sailfish and marlin are the reason many anglers come to Costa Rica. A released fish can bite again, for another guest on another day. For a small boat company in a small town, healthy fish are the future.