I suggest releasing them as you would an entirely wild native fish. That's because their genetics are from the river they are indigenous to; same as a wild fish. Even though they may harbor some of the behavior characteristics of brats, the more important thing is the genetics; and the likelyhood they can naturally spawn young native wild fish out in the river - which brats can't do well, fortunately. These programs are becoming widespread region wide now, and may ultimately be the solution to current hatchery methods; and possibly saving some native runs from extinction as well. We are still fairly early in these programs in most places. Until their numbers are proven high enough, release them. They will be marked differently than the typical adiose clipped brats.

RT