Taking fish photos

Photographing fish…Tips on taking a good picture of your trophy fish.

It doesn’t make a difference if you plan on eating that fish or it is to be released you want to have a nice picture of to save the moment and experience.

Be aware that there have been some recent changes in laws about removing some species of fish from the water. Washington, Idaho and Oregon have specific rules dealing with endangered species and how they are to be handled. Read and know the law in the state that you are fishing.

If you plan on releasing the fish and do not want to remove it from the water, support the upper body in one hand being careful not to get your fingers under the gill plate or in the gills. Grip the tail from the top with your other hand and then position the fish at an angle right at the water surface or slightly under the surface. This position will allow the photographer to focus and photograph the fish’s entire side. You can take a great picture and the fish never leaves the water.

Take several pictures from slightly different angles to ensure you get at least one really good picture.

If you plan on removing the fish from the water consider light, shadows and any distracting items in the background before you remove it. When everything is ready lift the fish, pose and snap the picture. Make its time out of water short and then return it quickly.

If you are photographing bass it is wise to support the body in the same manner as you would any other large fish. Holding large bass by the lower lip has in many cases results in dislocated or broken bones in the fish’s mouth. This possibility is totally preventable when the body is supported and the excess pressure is taken off the lower mouth area.

When handling any live fish never put you fingers under the gill plates or into the gills, take care to not squeeze the body, and wet your hands before handling any live fish.

Even if you plan on harvesting your catch the position should be much the same. Cradle the fish’s body just behind the head and with your other hand grasp the tail and position the fish in front of you. You may extend you arms a little, which will make the fish look larger but use this ‘trick’ sparingly or you will look like a cartoon figure with hands the size of hams. No one is fooled if this 'trick' is over done.

Your photograph will be best if done very shortly after you catch the fish. Colors fade with time and the fish’s skin will mottle. Wipe up any blood that might have run down the body. These photos will be pictures of trophies.

If you have several large fish that have been harvested pick the best to hold and then position the others on a table or raised area, it will make a much be a better photo than hanging fish.

This process of taking photographs may take an extra moment or two but the end result will be worth it.