Baasically I'd rather not have to estimate every time I catch a fish so I wanted a non expensive scale that measured lbs and ounces. And I'd like it to be one that isnt just a metal hook you hang the fish on.

rapala makes one for 20 bucks you can get ay wal-mart. its digital and seems to be pretty accurate. it does have a big hook that easily slides in the gills. the gills are the best place to weigh a fish anyhow because it keeps the fish from floppin off.

Don't believe you can beat the Rapala digital scales.

I own one of the Rapalas, and it works just fine.

" it does have a big hook that easily slides in the gills. the gills are the best place to weigh a fish anyhow because it keeps the fish from floppin off."

If you do this you are killing the fish. Sticking anything into there gills will kill them, even when you watch them swim away they wont last long.  Don't do this!  Get a scale that lips the fish.

False, your fine if you go through the first gill slit, and if you dont feel like going through the gills just put a plastic grocery bag in your tackle box.  

Is there another way than from the gills to hook the fish? Is it the first gill slit from the body or from the outside?

Don't believe you can beat the Rapala digital scales.

Agree. Mine is already 3 years old.

Is there another way than from the gills to hook the fish? Is it the first gill slit from the body or from the outside?

I have one of the Rapala Digital scales and i hook it in their lip i like to put it through that real thin memberanein their upper lip.

I will look into the rapala. Also, is the bill dance scale good? Does it have a hook on it like other scales?

weighing a fish from the gill plate is ok.

Just be careful not to mess with those red things.