Even from the bank, netting a C&R fish in knee deep water, unhooking and sending it on it's way is way easier on the fish than taking more time to drag it onto the bank, letting it flop around and tailing it. Granted, when done well beaching them can go very smoothly and quickly, but how often do things go perfectly in that process?

In addition to being better for the fish, it is quicker and easier for the fisherman as well, which leads to more time fishing and less time chasing flopping fish around the bank.

And then there is the boat factor...