The Department of Primary Industries is looking into new types of fishing hooks, to try and reduce the number of fish dying after they have been caught and released.

Most fish released after being mouth-hooked survive, but those that swallow the hook and become 'gut-hooked' are much more likely to die.

Research is underway to determine if the use of different types of hooks can reduce the chance of fish becoming gut-hooked.

The DPI is now looking for recreational fishermen to trial different hooks, and record their experiences using them.

They are specifically looking for fishermen around Coffs Harbour targeting yellowfin bream, sand whiting, dusky flathead, tailor and snapper.

Dr Paul Butcher said unbarbed hooks, and other safer hooks, are just as effective at catching fish.

"We think so," he said.

"I'm a keen fishermen myself, and I use barbless and barbed hooks for different scenarios.

"So different people have different experiences - and that is what this research is about.

"Getting a broad range of experiences down on paper, so we've got a good picture of what happens."

Dr Butcher said all fishermen need to do is experiment with different hooks, and record their success.

"Different types of hooks - they may barbless or circle hooks," he said.

"We're just looking for anglers that want to write down the types of gear that they use, and what might work best.

"We'll supply some different types of hooks and other terminal tackle to test for us."