That's a good point 4salt. I used to think the same way. But recent extensive studies were released, links to it posted here some time ago, that demonstrated no higher mortality rates using trebles than single hooks. Apparently the trade off is that the damage done by yanking out multiple hook points is offset by the findings that single hooks are more commonly taken deeper, where they often hook the gills. Perhaps the fish feel the trebles much quicker and halt the swallowing response on the baits. De-barbing should help with either type of hook though. However, in the 2 year study of all tpes of gear C&R on Willamette R. springers, done under observation by the NMFS, found the mortality rates exceptable enough to allow the Columbia spring chinook sport fishery the last couple of years without incerting specific hook regulations. But to be on the safer side, conscientious anglers can de-barb the hooks rather easily, and this makes it easier to get expensive lures, such as Kwikfish, back without hooking themselves too on the free hook; or breaking the leader and see a nate swim away with their lure. Barbless hook landing rates are close the barbed hook.

RT