These creatures are not made of rubber and are therefore susceptible to internal injuries that can be fatal later. Care must be taken to insure a sucessful return to the water. Boat anglers hold a distinct advantage in handling fish. A firm lipping of small fish allows minimal contact as long as the fish isn't allowed to shake free and carom off gunwales and deck fixtures. Bigger fish can also be lipped, but an over twenty can make even a double thumb lip lock quite a challenge.
Nets can provide a dependable landing method.
Care must be taken once the fish is on board so as not to allow it to thrash about and injure itself. Fish that respond sluggishly should be revived to increase heir chances for survival. If a fish is to be released, playing it until complete exhaustion is dangerous. It would be unrealistic and disingenuous to even imply that notion. What they can do is demonstrate that we recognize and are making an attempt to rectify the situation, and in so doing, keeping our own house in order.