How to safely land a large salmon on a river bank: step by step for beginners?

Great question. Landing a large salmon on a river bank can be a high-adrenaline moment, but with a simple plan you can keep both you and the fish safe. Here’s a step-by-step approach that beginners can follow, with practical tips you can actually use on the water. 🐟

1. Prep the right gear before the fight

• Have a sturdy, long-handled landing net ready and easily reachable.
• Wear a PFD (life vest) and non-slip footwear.
• Carry a pair of long-nose pliers and forceps for hook removal, and consider gloves for grip. Tip: a net with a wide hoop and a long handle makes downstream netting much easier.

2. Keep tension from the start

• As the fish takes line, keep your rod tip up and reel smoothly to maintain gentle, consistent pressure.
• Short, controlled pumps of the rod will tire the salmon without ripping the hook free.
• Avoid letting the fish sprint directly toward fast current; redirect its energy toward calmer water if you can.

3. Position your body for the bank

• Drop your stance low to the bank and face downstream. This stance helps absorb pulls and prevents you from being pulled into the water.
• If the bank is slick, consider kneeling or sitting to lower your center of gravity and improve balance.

4. Move the fish toward a safe landing spot

• Navigate the fish toward a shallow, accessible area where you can control it without wading too deep.
• If possible, keep the fish in shallower water while you finish the landing sequence; avoid rough, fast water on the final steps.

5. Net the fish at the right moment

• Once the salmon is sufficiently tired, slip the net to the downstream side. Guide the head into the net first, then slowly lift. This minimizes thrashing and reduces the chance of injury to you or the fish.
• Keep the fish’s body low in the water (or just barely out) while you secure the net. Caution: if the fish kicks, let the net angle do the work rather than yanking the line.

6. Unhook safely and assess the fish

• Use long-nose pliers to gently remove the hook. If the hook is deeply stuck or in the gill area, cut the line and release without pulling.
• Keep the fish horizontal in the water if you’re releasing, supporting the belly with a hand under the pectoral area.
• If keeping, minimize time out of water; cradle the fish in a cool tub or on a damp surface and keep its gills moist.

7. If you’re releasing, revive the fish properly

• Hold the fish upright in the current, gently moving it back and forth to pass water over the gills.
• When the tail starts to kick strongly, give it a gentle push toward deeper water and watch it swim away.

8. Safety reminders

• Never fight a big fish alone in a risky bank spot; have a buddy or guide nearby.
• Stay aware of loose footing and slippery rocks.
• Always wear a PFD and use proper gloves when handling hooks or the fish.
• Respect local regulations about keeping vs. releasing, and handle with care to protect the fish’s slime coat.

Want a quick visual reference? Check out these videos for real-world technique and tips:

• Catching my FIRST Salmon!!
• Jigging & Spooning for Salmon in Rivers (Bonus Tips for Tidal Waters)

With practice, your netting and unhooking will become smoother, and you’ll enjoy more successful, humane releases on the riverbank. You’ve got this—stay patient, stay safe, and happy fishing! 🎣