And this is a copy and paste from page 10 of the Ontario regs.. says the same thing:
GENERAL FISHING REGULATIONS (CONTINUED)
Using proper handling and release techniques improves fish survival.
Here are some tips for releasing fish:
1. Use barbless hooks and artificial lures (no organic bait) to
prevent deep hooking.
2. Land fish as quickly as possible and use a rubber landing net if
needed.
3. Keep the fish in the water as much as possible and handle the
fish gently.
4. Wet your hands or use wet cloth gloves when handling fish out
of water.
5. Do not touch the gills or eyes. Grasp the fish just behind the gill
covers, or for fish without teeth (for example, bass or panfish),hold the fish by the lower lip.
6. Use long-nose pliers to remove the hook quickly without injuringthe fish. If the fish is hooked deeply, cut the line and leave the
hook in.
7. If you want to take a picture, be ready ahead of time, hold the
fish in a horizontal position supporting its weight with your arm
and hands, and take pictures quickly, minimizing the time the
fish is out of water.
8. When releasing the fish, hold it in the water so that it is facing
into the current or if there is no current, gently move the fish in
a forward direction so water flows through the gills.
9. When the fish begins to struggle, is breathing normally and can
keep its balance, let it swim away.
10. Remember that all fish not immediately released count
towards your daily catch or possession limits (also see A