The expected survival rate of bleeders, particularly from the gills, is low. But it is higher than zero. Numerous steelhead have been recorded as bleeding when landed, but retained for broodstock programs, or tagged and released and recovered at a hatchery, so survival is documented. Of course, when you bonk the fish, the survival rate is zero.

Follow your conscience, if not the law.

Sincerely,

Salmo g.