In the realms and arenas of fishing, there stands to be one touchy topic related to the craft, one which has led to the inception of two fisher factions, the “Harvesters” VS the “Releasers”.

A quick look over the comments and sentiments posted on various fishing sites would speak volumes about how the two factions’ opposing views stand apart from each other, with each side raising points over the other.

The “releasers”, in this post’s sense, would comprise those who advocate the catch-and-release practice in fishing, while the “harvesters” would be those who opt to bring fishing catches home, primarily for consumption reasons.

“Harvesters” are quick to note that the whole concept of fishing is moot, if a caught catch is released back to the water. “Releasers”, in general retaliation to that “Harvester” point, would tell that the caught catch alone is reason enough for the whole fishing practice, and the catch-and-release practice ensures that there’ll still be fish to fish for in the future.

“Releasers” would argue that most “Harvesters” have the tendency to hoard catches for consumption reasons, and would contest a “Harvester’s” point of view with a question: What can be gained from catching a 2-inch trout for consumption purposes?

Though both factions do raise good points, the whole situation isn’t really back and white, with another group in the middle, existing as shades of grey.

These “shades of grey” take on a middle approach to the catch-and-release and catch-and-eat practice, either bringing home or releasing a catch based on given situational catch-factors: If a trophy-worthy catch is caught, then it is worth keeping. If a small catch is caught, releasing it is the way to go.

So which type of fisher are you? You a “Harvester”, a “Releaser” or the shade of grey of the two?