By: Nick Haddad
Every cast counts, and so does every release. In Return ‘Em Right’s newest video series: After the Return: Tales of Survival, viewers are taken below the surface—literally and figuratively—into the challenges and solutions surrounding reef fish catch and release mortality. Through five unique fisheries perspectives, the series shines a light on the impacts of barotrauma and discard mortality, and highlights how anglers, scientists, and innovators are teaming up to return reef fish the right way.
This compelling series doesn’t just tell stories—it educates and empowers. Let’s dive into what makes each episode of After the Return a must-watch for anyone who cares about the future of our fisheries.
Episode 1– The Advocate ft. Dr. Guy Harvey: A Conservation Icon’s Perspective
Dr. Guy Harvey, renowned marine artist and conservationist, brings a big-picture view to the conversation. With his deep passion for the marine environment and decades of experience both on and under the water, Guy explains why the survival of released reef fish is essential not just for anglers, but for the health of entire ecosystems. His voice sets the tone: conserving reef fish isn’t just a regulation—it’s a responsibility.
Episode 2– The Inventors ft. SeaQualizer: Turning Technology into Conservation
The minds behind the SeaQualizer descending device recount their journey of invention, motivated by the need to solve a pressing problem—barotrauma. When reef fish are brought up from depth, rapid pressure changes can cause severe physical damage, often fatal if not addressed. Descending devices like the SeaQualizer return fish to depth, allowing their bodies to recompress and survive release. Their segment is a powerful testament to how simple tools can have a profound impact on fisheries conservation.
Episode 3– The Scientist ft. Dr. Brendan Runde: The Science Behind Survival
Dr. Brendan Runde takes us into the realm of peer-reviewed research. A fisheries scientist whose work focuses on barotrauma and discard mortality, Runde presents findings from the lab and field that reinforce the effectiveness of descending devices in mitigating barotrauma and improving survival of released reef fish. His data-driven approach gives credibility to the conservation message and underscores the importance of education in turning science into action.
Episode 4– The Professor ft. Dr. Marcus Drymon: The Predator Problem
What happens while a fish is being descended? Dr. Marcus Drymon addresses the growing concern of depredation—when a fish is eaten by predators like sharks or dolphins before it is released. His research explores whether or not descending devices offer predators an easy opportunity for a quick meal. Despite the concern being prevalent among anglers, Dr. Drymon’s findings show that this fear is largely unfounded—there is no significant predation when descending devices are used properly. In fact, returning fish quickly to depth may actually reduce the risk by minimizing surface time, where predators are most active.
Episode 5– The Captain ft. Captain Ed Walker: A Lifelong Angler’s Wisdom
With a lifetime on the water and a current seat at the fisheries management table, Captain Ed Walker offers a grounded, real-world perspective into discard mortality. He understands the balancing act between harvest and conservation, and his experience guiding anglers informs his strong advocacy for proper release practices. As someone who’s seen firsthand the impacts of discard mortality, Captain Walker’s voice is one of reason and urgency.
Why “After the Return” Matters
By telling the stories of those on the front lines of fisheries conservation, it bridges the gap between fisheries science and recreational angling. Whether you’re a weekend angler, a resource manager, or just passionate about marine life, this series offers a deeper understanding of what it truly means to “Return ‘Em Right.”
With discard mortality from barotrauma being a leading issue in fisheries, and millions of fish released every year, this series underscores the importance of using best release practices, understanding predator dynamics, and listening to science-backed strategies to improve survival. The story doesn’t end at the release—it begins there.
Learn more and get involved at ReturnEmRight.org.
Watch the full series via the YouTube playlist.
