Sometimes fish are skinned alive. People think that catching then releasing a fish is harmless but this inflicts terror and pain and often permanently disables or kills the fish. Dropping, netting and handling remove a fish's delicate transparent surface skin which is an important protective layer. This can be fatal. Severe mouth lacerations can destroy a fish's ability eat.
Some anglers use small fish as live bait for larger predatory fish.
Hooks may be threaded through various parts of the fish's body, including the eyes, mouth and jaw. The small fish also suffers the terror of being hunted by bigger fish without being able to escape. Some anglers also maim the fish by cutting their fins or breaking their backs because injuries attract predatory fish. What YOU can do Recognise fishing as a bloodsport and do not take part in it or any other activity harmful to sea animals. Educate your friends, relatives, colleagues and employers that fishing is a cruel sport.