It's like these guys said, it's not too much of a problem to legally hook fish, which is why I can't understand why so many choose to snag instead.

I'm not sure I wson't wind up there again myself. 42,000 springers is a VERY good reason to put up with some large crowds. It's like an addiction, I guess. First you say you're not going to go there, then you start jonesing for the feeling of a springer chewing your bait.

You guys are pretty brave going at these fish with 10 and 12 lb. test. I usually go with something closer to 20, and I've still been slapped around a few times.