Tagging Instructions

Care of Tags & Applicator

• Tags should not be subjected to excessive heat.
• Leave tags in the original packaging until all tags are used.
• The tip of the applicator should be kept sharp to a V point.
• Keep tip of applicator corked when not in use to prevent damage or injury.
• Always keep applicator clear of debris.
• After use, wash in clean water and dry.

Preparing to Tag

• It is a good idea to keep a tag pre-loaded in the applicator.
• Also, keep extra tags, ruler, data card and pen handy.
• Feel free to develop your own data recording technique (one that reduces both time and effort) and be sure to share it with us so that we may share it with others! You can download the Tagging iPhone App here (don’t yet have link) or come back to this site and enter your tags here (www.TagLouisiana.com).
• Loosely fitting tags can be secured by making a slight bend in the tag. Do not alter the applicator.

Inserting Tags into Fish

• Try to minimize trauma and damage to fish.
• Lay fish on right side. Measure fish by TOTAL LENGTH (see figure below - bottom left).
• Remove a scale (for redfish) with the applicator point just below the base of a dorsal spine, usually the second to fourth depending on the species.
• Hold needle with barb facing toward the top of the fish.
• Start inserting the applicator at a shallow angle under the scales until you feel it pierce the skin, then raise the needle slightly so making clearance for the barb (see photo below - bottom right).
• The tag should be inserted so the streamer slants toward the tail of the fish.
• When barb is below skin, return to a shallow angle and insert until the barb is just beyond the mid-line of the fish (applicator needs to pass through mid-line of fish).
  
• THIS IS THE MOST IMPORTANT PART. Rotate barb 45 degrees towards the fish spines.
• Pause for a second then withdraw the needle smoothly. A slight tug will help “set” the tag.
• Don’t forget to record all relative information to later enter it on your iPhone app, here (www.TagLouisiana.com) or by mailing in your card.
• The fish should then be gently released.