A rather intense discussion about proper fish handling on another thread spurred my curiosity about the topic of ... fish slime. I recall reading an account of fish mortality caused by handling with dry hands, which strips off the protective slime and increases risk of infection. In fact, I try to encourage anglers to get their hands wet before picking up a large fish, if at all possible.

But I don't recall seeing slime protection much mentioned in handling at all. Is it actually worthwhile? Anybody know?

7ac 2015 CNBG RES FHM 2016 TP FLMB 2017 NLMB GSH L 2018 TP & 70 HSB PK 2019 TP RBT 2020 TFS TP 25 HSB 250 F1,L,RBT -206 2021 TFS TP GSH L,-312 2022 GSH TP CR TFS RBT -234, 2023 BG TP TFS NLMB, -160