Releasing Big Fish

[DonH]

I have a question. Our group comes up to the TFF twice a year. We have up to 9 guys and we walleye fish. Since there is a "Big Walleye" trophy involved, all big fish are kept alive until everyone sees it and it is then released at the cabin.

Since the fish might have been caught 3 or 4 miles away, we are wondering if that fish will return to where it was caught, or remain in the area where it was released.

Thanks in advance.

[ranger618]

Don,
That may be a largely theoretical question because a great percentage of the fish will die. Of course weather, water temp, time the fish were held, how much they were bounced around in the livewell, aeration, etc. will affect survival rate. Still, many will die even though they look fine swimming off. Its why much of the top fisheries in Canada (and other places) have gone to a kill requirement and do not allow 'culling' from a live well.
Clearly your release intentions are great but today most everyone has a good camera on their phone. Maybe measurements and a couple photo's is better?