Northwest Fishing Reports

I would like to point out an article published in the September/October issue of Bass Master Magazine titled, "Get a (safe) Grip." Among other things it points out that holding a heavy bass vertically by the jaw, it will almost always break. It also lists a web site on holding a bass for photos etc. www.tpwd.state.tx.us/newsmedia/news_images/. I'm sure most of this sites avid bass anglers know how to hold a big bass but perhaps some of the newer bass anglers may not. I know that I have seen big dead bass floating on the lake surface that may have been some well intentioned anglers C&R.

A few years ago it was stated that to try to hold a bass horizonal by the lower jaw, and no hand supporting the body mass WOULD break the jaw. It was said to hold them vertical. NOW it is said to NOT hold them vertical by the lower jaw only? Yes it would seem a big bass can cause the jaw to come apart due to the weight. So to hold the body with one or both hands does sound like the best idea. I'll read that artical soon. Thanks.

Thanks for the info ... now I just need to catch that BIG bass!

Thanks Bob,similar to holding pike. Obviously,bass and pike have different bodies
but it makes sense.