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How-To

Fizzing Fish: Step-by-step How To

In this photo gallery, you'll find step-by-step images of the technique used to "fizz" a fish whose swim bladder is over-pressurized from having been quickly reeled to the surface from a considerable depth.

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Step 1<br>From the tip of the pectoral fin (the fin on the side, just behind the gill flap), count back (towards the tail) two or three scales.
Step 1From the tip of the pectoral fin (the fin on the side, just behind the gill flap), count back (towards the tail) two or three scales.
Step 2<br>Count back (towards the tail) two or three scales and remove a scale (don't worry about removing one scale, they will regenerate).
Step 2Count back (towards the tail) two or three scales and remove a scale (don’t worry about removing one scale, they will regenerate).
Step 3<br>To remove the scale, simple apply light, but firm pressure with the needle tip on the selected scale as you flick the tool back towards the tail.
Step 3To remove the scale, simple apply light, but firm pressure with the needle tip on the selected scale as you flick the tool back towards the tail.
Step 4<br>Insert the FZ-1 needle, extended to the
Step 4Insert the FZ-1 needle, extended to the “side” positions, straight down, through the soft skin exposed by the plucked scale.
Step 5<br>Submerge the fish (and needle) as you insert the needle. Bubbles will be evidence of a successful attempt. You shouldn't have to insert the needle more than one inch.
Step 5Submerge the fish (and needle) as you insert the needle. Bubbles will be evidence of a successful attempt. You shouldn’t have to insert the needle more than one inch.
Step 6<br>Allow the bubbles to flow until you feel the fish relax or the bubbles slow significantly. Always remove the needle before the bubbles cease to flow, leaving positive pressure inside the swim bladder. Remove the needle and release the fish.
Step 6Allow the bubbles to flow until you feel the fish relax or the bubbles slow significantly. Always remove the needle before the bubbles cease to flow, leaving positive pressure inside the swim bladder. Remove the needle and release the fish.

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