The longer a fish is played, the more lactic acid builds up in the muscle tissue. This adversely affects the ability of the fish to survive if it is released, or its taste and quality if frozen or preserved. Don't let your catch flop about on rocks or in the bottom of your boat. Place your catch in a livewell or stun your catch with a sharp blow to the back of the head. Physical damage can occur to the muscle tissue while landing your catch.
Fish have weaker connective tissue than other animals.
Never handle a fish by the tail. Don't drop or toss your fish. Use a landing net whenever possible. Bleed your catch immediately. Bleeding your catch protects the flavor and increases storage life.