Host Connor Jay Liess (Public Information Specialist) sits down with Joe Kozfkay (State Fisheries Manager) and Kevin Meyer (Principal Fisheries Research Manager) to discuss how catch-and-release fishing is used to manager fish populations, what safe fishing handling looks like, and "hoot owl" restrictions (and why Idaho doesn't enforce them).

Other topics: A "medium kokanee day" at Arrowrock Reservoir; Michigan brothers; a brief history of catch and release fishing; enter the Dingell-Johnson Act; why do most people release fish?; when fisheries biologists use catch and release as a management tool; getting feedback from anglers; what does an angler want most?; a libertarian mentality; what is barotrauma and deep hooking?; are barbless hooks actually easier on fish?; overcatching and injuring certain species; what the heck does shark predation have to do with Idaho?; a worldwide concern among anglers; is your selfie grip and grin killing fish?; Hoot Owl restrictions; and more.

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You’re listening to Shootin’ the Bull — a podcast by Idaho Department of Fish and Game. From fish squeezers to deer muggers and everyone in between, these are the conversations with the men and women of Idaho Fish and Game.

Have a question or topic suggestion? Drop us a line at [email protected].

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