Studies have shown that quickly decompressing the rockfish by forcing it back to the bottom will not kill the fish. In fact, it recovers fast. The image to the right shows an easy-to-setup rig that when attached to the rockfish will send it back to the bottom. Once there, it can easily shake the rigging loose. This device costs less than 50 cents to make. One device called the SFD, or Shelton Fish Descender is made for retail sales.

Studies have been done by the Department of Fish and Wildlife; Oregon State University / The Mark Hatfield Marine Science Center.

Click here to view a research movie showing the recovery of a rockfish.