 There are a number of things that fishers can do to optimise the survival of release snapper. Firstly, fishing for snapper in shallow water is the best option to reduce barotrauma and improve survival, given the strong relationship between barotrauma and depth. Deep hooking, where the fish is hooked in the gills or stomach, can significantly impact post-release survival. This can be reduced by using circle hooks rather than traditional J hooks when bait fishing, or by lure fishing instead. When landing and handling a fish that is intended for release, it is considered best practice to be prepared before the fish is hooked by having the necessary tools and equipment readily available, such as a landing net, wet towel and pliers. Reducing handling time and air exposure will optimise the probability of survival. It is also recommended to use a knotless or silicon landing net to support the weight of the fish when bringing it to the vessel, and placing the fish into a cool, wet surface and handling with wet hands or gloves to minimise the removal of protective mucus. You should also remove the hook from the fish's mouth or cut the line close to the mouth if the fish is deep hooked. The release weight is most easily used by two people, where one person supports the fish and the other attaches the weight. However, it can also be used individually. The recommended approach is to support the fish and attach the release weight through the upper jaw. Where possible, use the existing hole from where the fish was hooked. Place the fish in the water and then let it go, allowing the release weight to take the fish back to depth. Let the retrieval line run free as the fish is released and then detach the release weight from the fish by stopping the retrieval line and briefly pulling on it. The barbless hook will slide out of the fish's mouth and the release weight can be retrieved. By making small changes to the way we handle and release snapper, we can all optimise their probability of survival when released and contribute to the recovery of this iconic fish species.