What is the status of a fish caught by snagging?

The status of a fish caught by snagging is that it must be released immediately. Snagging is a controversial method of fishing where fish are caught by impaling them with a hook rather than by the fish voluntarily taking the bait. Many regulations aim to preserve fish populations and promote sustainable fishing practices, and snagging is typically restricted or prohibited in many jurisdictions because it can lead to significant harm to fish populations.

Since snagging is often deemed an unethical practice that can result in the unnecessary injury or death of fish, regulations usually dictate that any fish caught this way must be released back into the water. This rule helps maintain fish populations and ensures that fishing remains a sustainable activity, protecting both the fish and the environment.

While other options suggest various conditions under which snagged fish might be kept, those do not align with common fishing regulations aimed at conservation. The emphasis on immediate release in practice reflects broader environmental and ecological goals.