Jasper County’s pristine waterways make it a sportsman’s paradise. Did you know that Jasper County has seven boat landings? Plus, there are also opportunities for folks to fish from the shore such as Knowles Island Fishing Pier –located within the Euhaw Broad River Planning Area.
Land protection and conservation along the Euhaw Broad River area will help ensure the long-term viability of this unique fishery for future generations to come. Before you hit the water, check out some tips for conservation-minded fishing.
- Acquire a fishing license and make sure it is up to date and on your person before heading out on the water.
- Practice safe catch and release techniques and take only what you need.
- If you plan to harvest fish, always reference SC DNR’s regulations for each species. It is also wise to check for fish consumption advisories!
- The slime on fish’s skin is a protective layer which blocks parasites and disease. When practicing catch and release, remove gloves and wet your hands before you touch a fish to avoid damaging this important mucus!
- Keep fish wet for as long as possible. Consider taking a photo of the fish while it is still in the water.
- Hold fish horizontally, grasping the tail and supporting the head. Avoid handling vertically and keep your fingers out of the gills! Click here for more handling and photography tips!
- Patronize your local tackle shop and make sure you are outfitted with the proper gear to quickly land fish. A prolonged fight will stress the fish out!
- Use an inline or non-offset circle hook. These circle hooks are highly effective and almost always hook fish in the corner of the mouth. This helps to protect fish from being “gut-hooked” which causes higher mortality.
- If a fish is “gut-hooked,” it’s best to cut your line instead of trying to pull it out. Over time, fish can pass or dislodge hooks on their own.
- Replace treble hooks on lures with single hooks. Treble hooks are often not necessary and can be difficult to remove from a fish’s mouth—and your skin!
- Recycle monofilament line at a nearby recycling station.