At Shimano, we believe fishing is about more than just catching fish — it’s about respecting the species, protecting our waterways, and ensuring future generations can enjoy the same thrill. That’s why we’re proud to support responsible fishing practices through gear like the Original Environet – a product born from a passion for preserving fish health and enhancing their chances of survival after release.
In this video, Shimano Angler Carl Jocumsen demonstrates the proper way to use the Environet while catching bass and yellowbelly in the Somerset Dam. A lifelong advocate of catch and release — particularly for iconic species like Murray cod and Barramundi — Carl shows how thoughtful fish handling can make all the difference when it comes to survival.
The Importance of Catch and Release
Australia’s fishing culture has evolved. Where once a good day on the water was judged by the number of fish in the esky, more and more anglers today are finding satisfaction in the release — knowing they’ve helped sustain the population of their favourite sport fish.
Key features of the Environet:
- Knotless mesh to protect slime and scales.
- No hook snags, thanks to the fine mesh.
- Soft fish handling with minimal stress.
- Sturdy aluminium frame and PVC grip for reliability on the water.
How Carl uses the Environet
Carl outlines the best way to net and release a fish, using the Environet:
1. Approach the fish downstream, guiding it headfirst into the net.
2. Use two hands to support the net or lift it vertically.
3. Keep the fish wet at all times — this helps protect its slime coat.
4. If you want a photo, gently cradle the fish and return it to the net to recover.
5. Release the fish when ready, ensuring it swims off healthy and strong.
This process gives the fish the best chance to survive, thrive, and maybe even be caught again.
Dave Irvine Legacy
The Shimano Environet owes its existence to the vision and passion of Dave Irvine, a groundbreaking advocate for catch and release fishing. Dave was more than just an inventor; he was a dedicated educator and one of the strongest voices in the movement in Australia. His efforts significantly influenced the fish-friendly handling techniques that many anglers practice today. He was also the man who created the renowned Brag Mat that anglers across Australia have come to love.
To honour his legacy, the Dave Irvine Memorial Snapper Classic (DIMSC) was established by his friends. Taking place from 2007 to 2019, this offshore, lure-only catch-and-release event drew anglers from across the nation, promoting the very practices that Dave tirelessly championed. His impact on the community continues to inspire a generation of responsible angling.
The Shimano Environet is more than just a landing net — it’s a tool that empowers you to become a more responsible, knowledgeable, and future-focused angler. Every time you choose to release a fish properly, you’re contributing to something far greater than your own fishing success. You’re helping to build healthier fisheries, stronger ecosystems, and a more sustainable future for recreational fishing in Australia.
By using gear designed with fish welfare in mind — like the Environet — and following best-practice handling techniques, you increase the chances that the fish you catch today can be caught again tomorrow, or go on to reproduce and maintain the populations we all rely on.
This isn't just about doing the right thing — it’s about creating a legacy. Just like Dave Irvine, who championed catch and release long before it was widely adopted, you have the opportunity to lead by example and pass down your values to the next generation of anglers.
So whether you’re introducing a young fisho to the sport, competing in a catch-and-release tournament, or just enjoying a quiet session on your local estuary, remember: every careful release is a step toward a better future.