The CARA (Catch And Release Angler) CLINIC is an initiative started by Commercial Marine and also supported by other sponsors like Shimano and McArthy Saltwater Baits The aim of these clinics is to promote responsible recreational angling by practicing catch and release. The clinics provide anglers with an opportunity to learn more about artificial lure fishing and fish handling skills.

The CARA Clinics are hosted by researcher and fish tagging specialist, Dr Paul Cowley, from the South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity (SAIAB) and local lure fishing guru, Chris Schoultz. The clinics are presented in the form of a PowerPoint slide show with lots of stunning fish and fishing photographs. Chris shares his knowledge and lure fishing skills to help improve angler catch rates for gamefish species like leervis, dusky kob, spotted grunter and skipjack in our local estuaries. The topics discussed include:

• What tackle and lures to use,
• Where to fish,
• When to fish,
• Weather conditions, and
• Feeding habits of the main species.

Paul provides fascinating information on the biology and behaviour of several species, including their movement patterns in and out of estuaries. He also discusses the fluctuating dynamics of estuaries and how water temperature and salinity influence different species that inhabit these systems. Paul also has some amazing data to share on the movements of fish that have been tagged with acoustic transmitters and tracked for up to three years in the Algoa Bay area.

Once the slide show and theoretical aspects of the clinic are completed, the anglers are taken to the waters edge and given a demonstration on how to work different lures for different fish species. This also provides an opportunity for the anglers to ask questions about anything they want to know about estuarine lure fishing.

With an interest in protecting our fish stocks companies like Commercial Marine have realized that through education and conservation we can make a difference to ensure sustainable coastal fisheries. Through the active promotion and practice of catch and release angling we will still have good catches for many years to come. The future of our fisheries is in our hands.

Catch and Release, the Only Solution