Take Great Fish Photos and Keep Them Wet!

I had to opportunity to fish with TU staffers Justin Bezold and Phaedra Booth on the Yakima River yesterday. We've been planning this trip to introduce them to the Yakima, and discuss some new programs associated with the Teanaway Community Forest and Washington Water Project here in WA. Although the weather wasn't the best, and winter fishing means lowered expectations, we had a great day talking about the issues, solutions, and the finer points of coffee drinking.

Justin and Phaedra did well with nymphing stonefly patterns, with this wild native Westslope Cutthroat on display making for an awesome day. Getting a great fish photo typically means the "grip and grin" but proper handling to ensure an effective release is an area of opportunity for us all. I brought along this Phototarium, made of plexiglass and including a ruler, to try out and was very pleased. It was easy to keep the fish in the net, make a quick transfer to the box and filling it, and put the fish at ease while getting a memorable shot.

The Phototarium is available in different sizes from the Wild Fish Conservancy in Duvall, WA. Visit their website for ordering infomation. Step up your catch and release program and get great photos!

Keep Them Wet!

Derek

Comments

 
said on Friday, December 12th, 2014

Derek:  

This is great!  These types of photos are what we've been trying to get people to do for TroutBlitz.  User's Manual here.

How do you like the big photarium from WFC?  I have the smaller two versions and have been debating purchasing the large one too.

-Dan, TU, Boise, ID.

 

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said on Friday, December 12th, 2014

Dan,

This was my first time on the water with the 20" custom box. Too big for wade fishing but easy to transport on the drift boat. This one has a gray folding flap that helps with contrast and a background for fish photos. It's a bit heavy when full, but this is a great way to get excellent fish photos with minimal if any impact to the fish.

Derek

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