CFM,

You're right about the barbless hook thing...numerous studies have shown that barbed vs. barbless hooks have significantly different mortality rates...in fact, a much more significant difference than bait vs. no bait.

Aunty,

I agree with you on the taking the fish out of the water thing. It seems that it would be quite dangerous for some folks to do it out in the salt, especially if they have a high boat. The new proposal says it would be required everywhere in fresh water except in the Columbia/Buoy 10 area.

Fish on...

Todd.