Holding/Releasing Bass

[calbo]

I've noticed several posts recently with some nice bass. Congrats to all the anglers - but - have also noticed the majority of fish are being held by the lower jaw at an angle that can damage the fish. I've caught several fish that have had damaged jaws - some that didn't look like they would survive much longer - may be due to the stress placed on their jaws/mouths while taking pictures. Might be better to lift by the lower jaw without bending the jaw outward - then cradling by the stomach for a picture - less chance of damage - just a suggestion.

[AndyS]

Always a good point, I think holding them across your body is the best way.

[shucker]

Just watch any sat or sunday bass show and they lip the crap out of them.

[NorthJerzyG]

Lol, and then grenade toss them back into the water.

[bronzeback]

hhahahahha grenade toss lmao

[dboyd101]

Fire in the hooooole!

In all seriousness, it's a good point, but also be aware that if you're yankin' a fatty out of 3 feet of water, there is little to no drag and that may cause the jaw issues as well.

Just my 2 pennies. Great post and point though.

[Jigman13]

Although I'm guilty of lipping toads I always release them in the most gentle fashion possible. I support their bodies entirely aside from the few seconds it takes to snap a picture. No grenade tossing here lol...

[Moz]

Nothing more rewarding than a bass "getting back at me" with a healthy tail splash of water to the face as it swims off.

[gcnj]

My first post as I usually just read, so hello.
Great post and 100% agree.
Treat those bass with the respect they deserve.
This link will offer some good info for everyone.

http://www.ifishillinois.org/catch_release/index.html