Evey time we go out on the water, we want our guests to catch fish. Frequently we are excited to find out that our guests catch tons of keepers and shorts. Keepers, as the name implies, are the fish that our guests are legally allowed to keep. But “shorts’ are fish that have to be thrown back because they’re not of legal size.
Obviously, for anglers, the goal of a fishing trip is to land a keeper – a fish that meets the legal size requirements for harvesting and eating. However, despite the focus on catching large, legal-sized fish, many of our guests still find enjoyment in catching “shorts” – fish that are too small to keep. While these undersized fish must be released, they remain a big part of the fishing experience.
Although shorts may not provide the same reward as a legal catch, there are several reasons why they continue to be a favorite among fishermen.
The Appeal of Catching Undersized Fish
Even though shorts must be released, they offer several benefits that make them a fun and valuable part of the fishing experience:
- Constant Action and Excitement – A day on the water can be slow when legal-sized fish are scarce. Shorts help keep the action going, making the trip more engaging even if no keepers are landed.
- The Thrill of the Fight – Many species fight just as hard regardless of size. Catching an aggressive, energetic short can provide the same level of excitement as reeling in a keeper, even if it has to go back into the water.
- Skill Building and Practice – Fishing requires technique, patience, and knowledge of how to handle different species. Shorts provide an opportunity to practice casting, hooking, and fighting fish without the pressure of landing a keeper.
- Indication of a Healthy Fishery – A strong population of shorts often suggests a sustainable and growing fishery. Seeing an abundance of young fish means the ecosystem is thriving, which is good for the future of the sport.
- Fun for All Ages and Skill Levels – Shorts provide excitement for children, beginners, and seasoned anglers alike. A fishing trip where small fish are biting frequently can be more enjoyable than a slow day with no bites at all.
So yes, even though a person cannot keep a short after they catch them, it’s still a great time on the water and makes for a more exciting fishing experience.
The Importance of Conservation
Sometimes, we hear the temptation of many of our guests about having to throw back shorts, especially when they’re the more common catch.
Still, while catching shorts is fun, responsible catch-and-release practices ensure the sustainability of fish populations. Proper handling techniques, such as using barbless hooks, minimizing air exposure, and releasing fish gently, help improve survival rates. Many anglers appreciate the role shorts play in maintaining a healthy fishery and take pride in releasing them safely.
The Joy of the Fishing Experience
Fishing is not just about filling a cooler. It’s about the experience of being on the water, feeling the tug on the line, and enjoying the unpredictability of the sport. Shorts may not be the ultimate prize, but they keep the excitement alive and remind anglers that every catch, big or small, is part of the adventure. Come join us for keepers and shorts. Visit Marilyn Jean Fishing, today.