Guys,

As you know I have been fishing in the UAE since I was a youngster (over 25 years) and it still concerns me to this day about the rapid decline in fish stocks in the UAE. In particular sailfish stocks. I have been in touch with the environment agency and they expressed interest in getting involved with a sailfish tagging programme. This has been done in the past. Anyhow I think it is up to us as the game fishing community of the UAE to promote a catch and release programme. The rules seem quite simple. if you are not going to eat , if its to small, or if its protected then release it.

I have managed to find some detailed reading on the old sailfish tag programme, some fish studies and a kingfish study for abu dhabi. Some of it is a bit to scientific but really interesting. Particularly the fish studies as it gives info on water temperatures, the effect of micro organisms, salt levels and density of fish in regions. lets face it we can all do with a little guidance to find the fish! Let me know if you are interested in the info and I can email it to you or maybe Ian can find a way of posting it on the website.

Basically lets make sure we can keep the stocks going so we can enjoy our hobby for years to come. I will let you know how I get on with the environment agency. Hopefully we can put together a programme to highlight catch and release to all.

Tight lines

Dave,

I totally agree with catch and release. If you can send me the info I will definately get it posted on the website. I think we should do our bit to protect the reserves for the future.

But before everybody jumps up and starts shouting ..... yes I do keep some for the table and why not? We all have to eat after all. But lets put the rest back, avoid fishing for certain species during in their breeding season and another thing ...... please, please, please take your rubbish home, use non stainless steel hooks so if you do get snapped the hook will rust out quickly and remember ....... "What we return today will be there too catch tomorrow"

Well said Dave and Ian. As Ian knows after being out with me.We only Bring in what we are going to eat.The rest go back live and well to fight another day.I am a memeber of the Bill fish foundation since 1999, and still have a bunch of Tags and Certs to go for these elusive Sails.Unfortunately when i sold my last Boat in Muscat ,My Tag stick went along with it.Has anyone seen any for sale around DXB?Plan to take the boat over to Fujeirah for the start of next season and main goal is to target the sails.Let me know if any one knows where i can pick up a tag stick.If not will have to revert to getting one sent in via US.
Tight Lines.
Rob

Will have to probably be the US Rob although you could try stuart at dubai creek marina, he may have one stashed away.

Here you go Ladies & Gents,

http://www.fishemirates.com/CatchRelease.html

Here you will find all the information that Dave has mentioned. Very interesting reading ........ thanks Dave.