What is a “Landed” Fish?
WHAT IS A “LANDED” FISH?
So, here’s the deal. In today's fly-fishing world, scrutinizing other anglers seems to be half the fun for a lot of people. Whether it's getting yelled at for not keeping the fish wet, poor casting techniques, or tying a devilish little squirmy on, someone always has an opinion. The fact of the matter is that we live in a society of “experts”. With everything right at your fingertips these days, everyone seems to have the correct answer. Or so they think. Apparently, all it takes is a few YouTube videos and a couple of craft beers to get a PhD in all things fishing. With that being said, we have a question that needs answering. What is a landed fish...? The true definition of a land is “To put (someone or something) on land from a boat”. Well, if that’s the case, then I have landed very few fish. Once again, it seems that things may have gotten lost in translation over time. So, why don’t we find out from a few professionals and a couple of shop bums what they consider to be a “landed” fish?
Fred Telleen (Industry Professional/Guide/Fly Shop Manager):
“If the leader is touched, and the fish is going to be released, that fish is landed. Or, if you are close enough to where the fish could be netted if need be.”
Caden Byrer (Fly Shop Manager):
“In order for a fish to be considered landed, it must be tailed, and the hook removed by your own hands”
Sam Wike (Founder of Fly Project):
"For saltwater or freshwater I think it's for sure "landed" if you remove the fly from the mouth, and I think if you intentionally break the leader in some fishing situations in order to not harm the fish I think that can also be considered a landed fish. Also, if you are under 10 or over 90 years old you can make your own rules.”
Josiah LeMarr (Shop Bum/Avid Angler):
” The fish must be touched, or hook removed intentionally. A fish that has been netted and flops out doesn’t count. Fight me.”
Noah Pacheco (Shop Bum/ Avid Angler):
“Any fish that could have been netted is a landed fish”
Jay D’Arpini (Fly Project Media Manager/Trout Bum):
“Uhm, I don’t know. If it’s in your hands I guess?”
Mark Daly (Industry Professional/OG Guide in Both Hemispheres):
“You have to touch leader.”
Well, it’s obvious that there is no true definition of what a landed fish is. (Unless we are talking about tournaments, competitions, and records). It seems to be a “to each his own” type of deal. I tend to agree with this perspective. It allows for plenty of arguments, hurt feelings, and lots of lies. So go ahead and claim that 30” fish as landed. Cause who knows right?