Handling GT’s for Maximum Survival After Release

Why GT Handling Matters

At Gamefishing Asia, we are committed to conserving our fisheries, and the Giant Trevally (Caranx ignobilis) is at the very top of our list. GTs are one of the most exciting sport fish in the ocean — aggressive, powerful, and iconic. But with great sport comes great responsibility: how we handle and release these fish directly impacts their survival and the health of our fishery.

Over years of guiding anglers, we’ve refined our techniques to maximise GT survival. This guide shares best practices so that your “fish of a lifetime” swims away healthy, ready to fight another day.

Use the Largest Barbless Trebles Suitable for Your Lures

• Why barbless trebles? GTs hit hard, and hook-ups are rarely lost due to barbs. Trebles spread pressure evenly and reduce tearing.
• Easier, safer unhooking: Barbless trebles come out faster, even when the fish has engulfed a lure.
• Lower risk: They don’t snag landing nets, reduce risk of injury to hands, and minimise danger when casting near others.

👉 Tip: Stick with large, strong trebles matched to your lure size.

Scale Your Tackle to the Terrain

• Always match your tackle to the environment — listen to guides and locals.
• Fighting GTs on gear that’s too light may result in cut-offs on reefs, leaving fish with lures stuck in their throats.
• Heavier tackle means quicker fights and easier revival, increasing survival rates.

Landing and Bringing GTs on Board

1. Tools Ready in Advance

• Thick gloves for gripping leader, lure, or tail.
• A large, sturdy landing net.
• Long-nose pliers or a quality disgorger for safe unhooking.

2. Using a Landing Net

• Guide the fish into the net; don’t scoop.
• Keep the fish upright in the net, facing into the current.
• This doubles as a revival method while anglers prepare for photos.

3. Landing Without a Net

• Grip the lure with one hand, tail wrist with the other.
• Never lift by the head alone or the leader — both can cause injury or gear failure.
• With two people, lifting larger GTs safely is easier and safer.

On-Deck Handling Best Practices

• Prepare the deck: Clear obstacles, wet the surface, or use a damp towel to avoid burns and abrasion.
• Minimise air time: Have cameras ready before lifting the fish.
• Unhook quickly: Use a T-bar disgorger (e.g. Leadertec) to reach deep hooks fast.
• Keep water moving through gills: If fitted, use a raw water washdown hose. Otherwise, turn the fish gently and pour water over both sides.

The Release — The Most Critical Step

• Aim for minimal time out of water.
• For most GTs, a headfirst dive back into the water revives them instantly.
• Big GTs or jig-caught fish may need longer revival — keep them facing forward in the net while the boat moves slowly in gear.
• Watch for recovery cues: colour returning, body strength, and tail kicks. Only release when the fish is clearly ready.
• If needed, sacrifice photos for survival. A living GT is the best trophy.

Summary: Respect the Apex Predator

• Use barbless trebles for safer hook-ups and unhooking.
• Scale your tackle responsibly to the terrain.
• Land GTs with care, using proper tools and teamwork.
• Handle quickly and gently on deck, keeping fish cool and wet.
• Prioritise revival and release — survival comes before photos.