Re: Themes for fly dresser magazine
EJW,
I'm afraid I have to take you task for Pike fishing with light lines, Pike are very fragile fish and do not recover qucikly when caught. They need to be played quickly and nursede on release. Studies have shown that tired Pike swim away strongly then roll over and die. By all means fish light for your small wild browns and even stockie rainbows if you intend to kill them but for large fish that are going to be released it is a big NO! While heavier line might be less fun for you it certainly is better for the Pike.
The quotes below are taken from the Pike Anglers Club guide to handling and releasing Pike
Wire traces are absolutely essential for pike fishing - even small pike have razor sharp teeth that will cut though ordinary line. For the safety of the pike your trace should be at least 15 inches (40cm) in length irrespective of whether you are bait or lure fishing. With the ultra-thin trace wires that are available today there is no need to drop below 28lb breaking strain.
The use of semi-barbless or crushed barbed hooks, doubles or trebles, no larger than a size 6, is preferable to barbed - you will not lose fish, but unhooking will be easier and quicker, which aids pike conservation. Semi-barbless hooks are not an excuse for allowing a pike to swallow the bait.
Line strength needs careful consideration and it is better to opt stronger rather than lighter line. A main line of at least 15lb recommended if using nylon monofilament, or 30lb if using braided line.
Pike are far more fragile than their aggressive appearance suggests. On returning a pike you must ensure that it can keep itself upright before you allow it to swim away. If necessary support the fish in an upright position until it swims away strongly
The underlining is mine.
Cheers
__________________
Chris REEVES
www.flydressersguild.org
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