Fresh water... I am all for leaving the fish in the water. In the salt , there are times when I do not feel comfortable leaning out over the side of my boat. Especially on a choppy day or another boat passes by leaving a big wake. Even with the release stick!

As far as rivers, it is easier than most will think.
My only problem bringing a fish to hand is with a 15' spey rod!

Downriggin'
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"If you are not scratchin bottom, you ain't fishing deep enough!" -DR

Puget Sound Anglers, Gig Harbor Chapter