A man touches fish with gloves put on

Is It OK to Touch Fish with Gloves? Effects On Fish & Your Hands

You’ve probably seen fishing gloves for sale many times, and maybe you’ve even bought a pair yourself. But have you ever wondered if you should actually wear them? Well, some of you definitely have, because we often get this question in our inbox: “Is it OK to touch fish with gloves?”

A man touches fish with gloves put on

In this article, we’ve researched and combined our own experiences with the opinions of other anglers to answer this question in detail. Here’s what we’ve found out…

Effects of Gloves on Fish

Using gloves to handle fish can significantly impact the fish’s health, primarily due to the potential removal of their protective slime coat. This slime coat is essential as it acts as the fish’s first line of defense against infections and diseases. When dry or rough gloves are used, they can strip away this vital layer, making the fish more susceptible to bacterial, parasitic, and fungal pathogens.

I can’t tell you how many fish I’ve seen with obvious fingers, palms, and thumbprints on them that have turned into fungal infections. Also, fish whose tails have rotted off because people are handling them with gloves on.

The slime coat protects fish from infections, helps regulate their fluid balance, and facilitates smooth movement through water. Handling fish with wet hands or gloves made from smooth, non-abrasive materials like rubber is crucial to minimize harm and ensure their survival post-release.

Effects of Different Glove Materials on Fish

1. Cotton Gloves

Cotton Gloves for fishing.

Cotton gloves are highly absorbent and abrasive, making them one of the worst choices for handling fish. Their rough texture can easily strip away the fish’s protective slime coat, leaving them vulnerable to infections and diseases. Anglers and experts strongly advise against using cotton gloves when handling fish because they can cause significant harm to the fish’s health.

Cotton is not the material you want to use while handling fish. It can cause significant harm by stripping away their protective slime coat, making them more susceptible to infections and diseases.

2. Neoprene Gloves

Neoprene Gloves for fishing.

Neoprene gloves are less harmful, especially when wet. While they can still be abrasive compared to wet bare hands, neoprene provides a smoother surface that is less likely to damage the slime coat. Additionally, neoprene gloves can offer better grip and protection for the angler, making them a popular choice. Wetting the gloves before handling fish can further reduce any potential harm, as it minimizes friction and protects the fish’s delicate slime layer.

I fish with neoprene gloves, and to be honest, it’s probably less harmful than my hands, even when my hand is wet. Wet neoprene gloves (or any non-powder coated rubber glove) with no fabric on the outside are better for handling trout than wet, non-gloved hands because, wet or not, the oils on your skin can break down that slime coating.

3. Latex/Surgical Gloves

Latex:Surgical Gloves for fishing

Latex or surgical gloves provide a smoother surface compared to cotton and neoprene. They can be effective if kept wet, reducing the risk of damaging the fish’s slime coat. Some anglers prefer to wear latex gloves over their regular gloves to combine the benefits of protection and smooth handling. Latex gloves are also appreciated for their flexibility and snug fit, which allows for better control when handling fish.

I have a friend who wears latex surgical-type gloves over his regular gloves, and that seems to work well. This method combines the protection of regular gloves with the smooth handling of latex, ensuring better care for the fish while maintaining control.

Also, check: Can You Use Gardening Gloves for Fishing?

Gloves Effect On Different Fish Species

Trout

man touches trout with gloves

Trout have a delicate slime coat that protects them from infections and diseases. Handling them with dry or rough gloves can strip this protective layer. For trout, it’s best to use wet gloves made from smooth materials like latex or neoprene. These gloves help keep the slime coat intact, which is crucial for the trout’s health and survival after being released.

Catfish

Catfish have tougher, scaleless skin and sharp spines in their fins. Using heavy-duty gloves, such as those made from leather or thick neoprene, can protect your hands from these spines while providing a good grip on the slippery fish. Wetting the gloves before handling can help reduce any potential damage to the fish’s skin.

Handling catfish without gloves.

Bass

Bass, especially smallmouth and largemouth, have rough mouths and sharp gill plates. Gloves with a textured wool coating, like Rapala Fisherman’s Gloves, are ideal for handling bass. These gloves offer good grip and protection from rough mouths and gill plates while being durable enough for frequent use

Handling Largemouth bass.

Salmon

Salmon are large, powerful fish that require a pair of gloves providing both protection and good grip. Neoprene gloves, such as the Glacier Glove Pro Angler Gloves, are suitable for handling salmon. They offer warmth and water resistance, making them ideal for cold water environments where salmon are commonly found.

Perch

Perch have smaller, delicate bodies and are often caught and handled frequently due to their abundance. Lightweight gloves with a good grip, such as those made from synthetic materials with a rubberized coating, work well for handling perch. These gloves provide enough dexterity to handle small fish without causing damage.

Handling perch without gloves.

Check our recommendations on Best Fishing Gloves – Based On Testing

By using the right type of bait and gloves for each fish species, anglers can ensure they protect both their hands and the fish. This careful handling promotes sustainable fishing practices and helps maintain healthy fish populations.

What Could Happen to My Hands if I Touch Fish Without Gloves?

Handling fish without gloves can expose your hands to several risks. The cold water can cause discomfort and numbness, especially during prolonged exposure. Additionally, fish have sharp teeth, spines, and fins that can cause physical injuries such as cuts and punctures. These injuries can be painful and lead to infections if not properly treated.

One common issue is the development of callouses and rough skin due to repeated exposure to fish and fishing gear. This can make daily tasks uncomfortable and even painful. Anglers have shared their struggles with not using gloves:

My hands are so rough and callousedthat I don’t even enjoy rubbing one out. I just had a buddy remove a suspect spot from the top of his hand. Luckily, no cancer. My hands are pretty damn calloused as well. I never wear gloves unless it’s insanely cold or I’m ice fishing.

These issues can lead to painful hands, infections, and even skin cancer concerns. Wearing gloves can protect you from these problems, making your fishing trips safer and more enjoyable. So, remember your gloves next time to keep you and the fish safe!

What Could Happen to Fish if I Touch Them Without Gloves?

Handling fish with bare hands, especially when they’re dry, can seriously harm the fish. The main issue is that it strips away the fish’s protective slime coat. This slime acts as a shield against infections and diseases. Without it, fish are more likely to get bacterial, parasitic, and fungal infections. This slime also helps fish move smoothly through the water.

Bare hands, especially dry ones, not only strip protective slime from the fish. Catch and release fisheries show good evidence of trout swimming around, displaying the effects of protective slime removal from direct fish handling. Wet your hands before touching the fish; you won’t remove slime. The slime is the fish’s very effective barrier against your germs and oils. So, always wet your hands before handling fish. This simple step can help keep the fish healthy and safe.

Our Best Practices for Handling Fish With Gloves

Wet Hands or Gloves

Always wet your hands or gloves before handling fish to minimize the removal of their protective slime coat. This slime coat is essential for protecting fish from infections and diseases. Handling fish with dry hands or fingerless gloves can strip away this vital layer, making them more susceptible to health issues. As many anglers recommend, “wet is best” when it comes to touching fish. Wet your hands (or gloves) and handle as little as possible.

Minimal Handling

Reduce handling of the fish as much as possible. Use tools like forceps or de-hookers to remove hooks without the tool directly touching the fish. This minimizes stress and the risk of injury to the fish. Techniques like using a net to keep the fish in the water while removing the hook can greatly reduce handling time and stress.

What I do is grab the fly with your forceps, flip it out of the fish, and let ’em go, which seems to work best for me. Even the best efforts using a net sometimes require physical handling to remove the hook.

Appropriate Nets

Rubber or knotless nets can significantly reduce damage to the fish. These nets are gentler on the fish’s fins and scales, preventing injuries that can occur with rougher materials. Fish-friendly nets are particularly recommended for their softer, more supportive structure.

Use a rubber net if needed; I avoid touching a fish at all costs, as all are released. Aren’t the rubber ones the most fish-friendly?

Additional Considerations By Fish Chart’s Anglers

Understanding fish physiology: The slime coat plays a vital role in the fish’s overall health by protecting against infections. Environmental factors like water temperature and conditions can also affect the fish’s stress levels and susceptibility to disease. Fish secrete a mucoprotein protective slime coat that covers the scales and skin.

Environmental Factors: Pay attention to environmental conditions such as water temperature and flow rates. Fish are more stressed in warm water or low-flow conditions. Avoid fishing in these conditions if possible, and handle fish quickly and carefully to reduce additional stress. High water temperatures and poor-quality water can increase fish stress and mortality rates. The slime coat is one of the fish’s main defenses against infection and disease.

You should also check our Guide To Choosing Fishing Gloves – 5 Things You Must Look For

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Meet Jack Morrison, our experienced captain at FishChart. With over 15 years of fishing know-how in Cape Cod, Jack knows where to find the best spots and how the ocean behaves, making every trip rewarding. He's certified in weather analysis, ensuring accurate forecasts for safe and enjoyable outings. Jack's expertise in safety and navigation ensures everyone aboard has a successful and pleasant journey.