Return ‘Em Right (RER) teaches reef and deep-water anglers to recognize the symptoms of barotrauma and use release gear to increase their rate of survival. Starting on May 13, 2026, eligible anglers that complete Return ‘Em Right’s free educational training can receive a release gear kit valued at $100 by covering only the cost of shipping and handling.
Anglers that fish for reef fish, like snapper or grouper, in the Gulf of America, and other locations, may be eligible for the release gear.
The new business model is designed to allow for program growth, strengthen long-term program sustainability and achieve better conservation outcomes.
“Return ‘Em Right has grown from zero to over 50,000 anglers in the past four years, and the response from our community has been overwhelmingly positive,” said Nick Haddad, Program Director. “By asking anglers to cover shipping and handling moving forward, we’re allowing the program to expand its reach and deliver stronger conservation results.”
Participants complete a brief 15-minute training that demonstrates best practices for safely releasing reef fish that suffer from barotrauma. After completion, eligible Gulf & South Atlantic reef fish anglers can order their gear package. Return ‘Em Right encourages all anglers to take the free training, regardless of their desire for release gear.
Return ‘Em Right emphasized that the program’s mission remains unchanged: improving reef fish survival and supporting sustainable fisheries through education and gear distribution.
Anglers can learn more and participate by visiting returnemright.org.
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The mission of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) is to develop knowledge relevant to agricultural, human and natural resources and to make that knowledge available to sustain and enhance the quality of human life. With more than a dozen research facilities, 67 county Extension offices, and award-winning students and faculty in the UF College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, UF/IFAS brings science-based solutions to the state’s agricultural and natural resources industries, and all Florida residents.
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