I received this email from Hal yesterday. It shows how catch and release works if people will practice it. Some people are proud of a big fish and can’t stand not bringing it in so they can brag a little. Of course, that kills the fish, takes it out of the population, and denies other people or even yourself the opportunity to enjoy catching it again. Keeping a big fish is actually a very selfish thing to do. Just take a picture, let it go, and feel good about it. I have released 7 fish that weighed between 8 and 9 1/2 pounds (largest I’ve ever caught) so I practice what I preach. Here is the email:

Caught this six pounder yesterday at the pits. It is the same bass I caught three times in May of 2012, twice on same day then again a week later, all on same cypress. The black spot on her head is pretty distinctive but the tag still attached was definitive. She only gained a half pound and moved about a quarter mile. Caught on a KVD 1.5 the first and last time.  She didn’t look very healthy but put up a good fight. Caught nine others including a three. Had really good whopper plopper action late.