[NorthJerzyG]

With bait, I only wait long enough to be sure I have one on and not a snag. The longer you wait more chance of it being deep in the throat or in the gills. With lures, the strike is usually pretty violent and scares you into settin the hook, lol..........

For landing, I try to have everything out I will need ahead of time. Saves time during the landing. Once I get them in, secure the head in the water and remove the hook. Make sure they aren't still fighting strong. Once they tire they'll just sit there and let you unhook them. Once the hook is out, lift em up, snapp a couple shots and back they go. Piece of cake, most of the time.........