Manufacturer: Waterworks

Product: Ketchum Release

Retail Price: $20.00

Tester: Jim Bryan-Kanda

Rating: 5/5 - A must have for winter fly fishers.

Date Tested: 2006-2011

Test Area: Trout streams of the west, bonefish flats of Ascension Bay.

What They Say:

The Waterworks was founded by fly fishermen who are committed to providing smart solutions to real problems.  The Ketchum Release was designed primarily to help reduce fish mortality.  Anglers can debate the best methods for handling a fish.  But the fact remains that the best fish handling is no fish handling.  The Ketchum Release is designed to easily back out a fly hook without the need to grab or net the fish.  It's easy to use: simply hold the leader taut with the rod, as you would when netting the fish.  With the other hand, run the Ketchum Release down the leader and over the fly.  The fact that the Ketchum Release won't damage your flies, unlike traditional hemostats, is a bonus.  Save about a dozen flies and the Ketchum Release pays for itself.  The Ketchum Release is made from a carbon fiber thermo composite.  We expect it to last a lifetime, but if your Ketchum Release falls apart before you do we'll replace it free of charge!

Available in three convenient sizes to cover all the bases.  Midge Size is best suited for smaller bodied flies.  Original Size is best for freshwater flies from medium bodied streamers to small dries.  The largest size, Big Bug Size is ideal for larger freshwater streamers and saltwater patterns. 

• Reduces fish mortality by removing flies without handling the fish.
• Eliminates damage to flies with a tool that doesn't tear or crush delicate fur and feathers.
• Keeps hands and gloves dry in cold wintery weather.
• Eliminates you getting accidentally "hooked" by the dropper fly, by keeping your hands away from your rig.
• Eliminates the need to carry a net the majority of the time.
• DESIGNED AND MANUFACTURED IN THE U.S.A.

What We Say:

I love my Ketchum Release, love it!  I was given my Ketchum Release, Midge Size,  as a gift by a good friend because I was always complaining about having to bring along a net.  Not one to take pictures (unless it's a true trophy), I tend to try and catch then release my fish as quickly as possible.  This little gizmo allows me to do it easily.  As described above, you never have to touch your fish. (Don't forget to assist/resuscitate your fish if necessary...the Ketchum Release doesn't do that)  Your hands stay warm and cozy when fishing those artic days on the tailwaters of the South Platte, Fryingpan or Taylor.  And best of all, gone are the days when that fish slips through your hands as your go to unhook it, only to speed off in an attempt to give you a "taste of your own medicine"...in the form of digging your dropper into your hand!  We've all been there...painful.

Last Minute Thoughts:

This is a great gift idea or addition to anyone's vest.  A must have for the person that seemingly has it all.