heyjay

This is just an exerpt of the article based on this study . It's a long read but very informative . Based on his research, Foster recommended anglers carefully remove even deeply imbedded hooks. If the hook can not be removed, then it seems better to leave about 18 inches of line attached. Perhaps, someday, these findings will reach C&R anglers, the biologists who are researching C&R and publish C&R guidelines, and TV anglers who teach by their example. Hooks in or out

I've used this technique the last couple of years for deep hooked fish . It's much more difficult with a smaller bass . When I first read the article I was very skeptical because of what I have always heard about being gentle around the gills . I then read an article that showed removing the hook offered the fish a greater chance of survival . After using the technique I honestly feel that now I'm giving that fish that greatest chance to survive . hook removal