50 Pound Bass - Would You Release It?

[Gerry Zagorski]

Interesting, controversial and somewhat emotional topic here.....

I would release it.... For those of you in the same boat, I'd be interested in hearing others opinions as to why we are so protective of Stripers and have no issues keeping other fish for the table like Fluke.

In my case I think some of it has to do with fishing through the 70s and early 80s when the Stripers were hard to come by. These fish and the people that chased and caught them were put up on a pedestal. Having said this, I have and still do keep a few smaller ones during the year for the table, but when it comes to one of the big girls I feel differently. Why do I feel this way? Can't really put my finger on it.

BTW - To each his own and I have no issues with people taking their legal limits of fish. It's a personal choice. I fish a lot and for those that only fish occationally, I totally understand them wanting to take some fresh fish home but here again, I feel differently when it comes to taking a big fish. I know a lot of people like this.... A small Striper comes on the deck and it goes right into the box without a thought.... A bigger one comes on the deck and the guys are standing around arguing about releasing it and getting pretty emotional about it. Why??

[addictedtobass]

Couple pics and off she goes. Memory that lasts!!!

[Jay]

Pictures and release.

[Topeka Boy]

MY p/b is 33lbs but if I was lucky enough to catch 50 lb fish I would surely release it.

[spearo]

Never kept anything over 25lbs, and yes that includes a few 50's.

I release primarily for two reasons, ok maybe three. Big girls keep the stocks healthy, they taste like shit and that intangible one, like Gerry, I can't quite put my finger on. Emotional connection with the fish? Not sure but, I feel sad every second I keep them out of the water and can only really celebrate once they are swimming away.

[Michael82929]

Catch one first.. then decide.. it's easy to say until you hear that THUD hit the deck.

People who have caught 50's know what that thud is.

[BCinerie]

50lb plus fish is old taste like a board! They take a good pic
But if she was gut hooked or mishandled
It is crab food. So if
I caught one, and she was handled
Correctly and would survive then back she goes, if not then keep her
And take lots if pics!

[Capt. Debbie]

Never caught a striper close to that. I immediately said release. But had second thoughts. SO I honestly said- not sure

[Flygaff]

I would release. Not that I am likely to encounter the issue. My best is 34. My buddy caught a 43 on my boat and kept it, but I don't believe he would again.

[jmurr711]

I would tie it to my roof & drive back to philly & eat every inch i could. I have caught & kept 40lbrs before & ate every piece of fillet & cooked the head I thought it was delicious, & I used the carcass in the garden but i can accept I am the bad guy