Venting tools are sharp, hollow instruments that allow expanded gas to escape from an over-expanded swim bladder.īarotrauma mitigation tool requirements have already been adopted in Gulf and Atlantic federal waters. Descending devices are weighted devices capable of releasing fish at a depth that is sufficient to recompress expanded gas and help fish recover from the effects of barotrauma. Tools including descending devices or venting tools can help released fish recover from the effects of barotrauma. If not treated correctly, barotrauma can be lethal to reef fish. These injuries include the stomach protruding out of the mouth, bulging eyes, bloated belly, distended intestines and inability to swim down independently. As reef fish are reeled up from depth, they can suffer pressure-related injuries known as barotrauma. If approved, this rule would also require the use of a descending device or venting tool if releasing a fish that is exhibiting signs of barotrauma prior to release. This proposed rule is designed to increase the survival of released reef fish, a top priority management issue in the Gulf and South Atlantic. 1 Commission meeting, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) proposed a rule to require the possession of a descending device or venting tool that is rigged and ready for use on board a vessel when harvesting or attempting to harvest, including catch and release, reef fish in state waters.

Reef fish descending device