AN ANGLER'S relationship with the quarry is a complex one, difficult for the non-angler to comprehend.

During a recent bulletin, a newsreader broadcast a story relating to Scottish salmon fishing and efforts to conserve stocks.

She stated anglers were now "throwing salmon back into the river".

As an angler I would say the salmon are now "being returned to the water" or that "a catch-and-release policy is being promoted".

I found the statement that fish were being thrown back into the river offensive as it implied a lack of respect for the fish.

Respect for the fish we catch is an aspect non-anglers struggle to understand.

Catch and release has become increasingly important in the efforts to protect diminishing stocks of wild fish such as salmon and sea trout.

In England catch and release of salmon is mandatory until June 16 — a measure that was not initially well received by many salmon anglers but has been fully embraced now, with most continuing the practice throughout the season.

Carp anglers are particularly careful in the care and handling of the fish they catch.

Unhooking mats prevent damage to the carp while on the bank. Antiseptic ointments are sometimes applied to hook wounds in the mouth and to any damage to the flanks caused during handling.

Sea anglers are also returning far more fish to the sea in an effort to protect dwindling stocks.

Many see this as a wasted gesture when viewed against the violation and mismanagement of the seas by some in the commercial fleet.

It is, however, morally right and gives a sound platform from which to argue for conservation measures.

There has been a late flourish in flounder fishing in the estuary with anglers making more than 30 catches in a session.

The vast majority of these flatfish are returned to the river, with just a few retained for the table.

I suspect that the spate conditions of last weekend will bring an end to the flattie season.

Open coast marks should give anglers the chance of sweet-tasting dabs, with Clovelly a popular venue to seek these obliging flatfish.

Ilfracombe Pier is also worth a try with the chance of whiting, pouting and codling.

Blakewell Fishery fished well before the freeze with anglers taking some quality trout on large nymphs and lures.

Chris Wall took a fine four-fish bag of 23lb that included trout of 10lb 12oz and 7lb.Alan Knife took five for 28lb, the best a cracking rainbow of 12lb.

Wistlandpound Flyfishing Club's Winter Challenge match at Blakewell saw members enjoy warm, spring-like conditions — a total contrast to the previous week when the lake was gripped by a layer of thick ice.

I noticed on arriving that the water was coloured following heavy rain and decided a key factor in fly selection would be a pattern that was easily visible to the trout.

I selected a floating line and a long leader to present a large olive damsel fritz pattern.

After casting I allowed the fly to sink before retrieving with short, slow pulls.

It was not long before I felt an exhilarating tug transmitted through the line.

The first take I failed to connect with, but with confidence now boosted I fished with belief and soon started to hook hard-fighting rainbows. Within an hour I had completed my five-fish bag and took the opportunity to chat with fellow members and enjoy the weather.

Alistair Curd won the match with a five-fish bag for 16lb 8oz. Runner-up was Dave Mock with 15lb 12oz and in third myself with 15lb 4oz.

The Finding Sanctuary meeting arranged with Combe Martin Sea Angling Club has been moved to Thursday, February 4, following cancellation of the original date due to the bad weather.

It is essential anglers engage in this consultation process that will set out possible Marine Conservation Zones.

Diary dates

Saturday & Sunday: Triple Hook Club Early Croyde to Foreland Rover, fishing 6pm to 6pm, weigh in at Royal British Legion 7.30pm.