sportfishing

Sportfishing is fishing conducted for recreation rather than for commercial gain or subsistence. It encompasses both freshwater and saltwater environments and often emphasizes skill, sport, and conservation. Participants may fish for personal enjoyment, participate in guided trips, or compete in tournaments. The activity typically involves released fish or carefully handled catches depending on rules and conservation status.

Common methods include fly fishing, lure fishing, spinning and baitcasting with various rigs. Techniques include casting, trolling, bottom fishing, and jigging. Equipment ranges from lightweight fly rods and reels to heavy trolling setups, with lines, leaders, hooks, and baits. Boats, guides, and charter services are common, especially in offshore and large-lake fishing.

Ethics and regulations: many jurisdictions require licenses; catch limits; protected species. Catch-and-release, barbless hooks, minimal handling, and proper dehooking are encouraged to reduce harm. The International Game Fish Association (IGFA) sets world-record rules and maintains a comprehensive database of records and species identification.

Conservation and economic impact: sportfishing supports habitat restoration, stock assessments, and conservation programs. It contributes to local economies through tourism and gear industries. Issues include overfishing, bycatch, invasive species, and habitat degradation, addressed by management plans, marine protected areas, and sustainable practices.