I'm new to early season fishing (water temp of 39F). Had my first outing for the season yesterday and caught two nice smallies at about 30ft deep (silver buddy on long main lake points). So my newbie question is....

 

Are bass caught in deeper water susceptible to air bladder issues? I've read walleye may not survive if brought up from certain depths. Does something similar apply for lm/sm bass?

 

Thanks.

Bill

 

P.S. I'm guessing the fish pictured is a female judging from size and belly, but if anyone can confirm I'd appreciate it. I'm not sure how to tell the difference.

 

From what I've read yes they can.  They suggest "fizzing" them when you catch them that deep.  They have a tool for that you can buy at BPS. 

the tool is called the bends mender

http://www.basspro.com/Team-Marine-Pro-Fizz-FZ1-Fizzing-Tool/product/11110805010113/

You can go to the drugstore & buy a large hypodermic needle & do the same thing. If you slow play fish from deep water they will  adjust better than quickly bring them to the surface.

I've also heard of guys using a small, light wire hook tied so the hook shank actually runs back up towards the rod. They remove the barb and use a heavy weight at the bottom like a huge, upside down dropshot rig. The whole thing is towered to the bottom and a simple pull on the line pops the hook back out of the fishes jaw. I've never seen it done and it seem sit would spook other fish but maybe something to try.