Originally Posted by
hiltonlakes
This is a fabulous fish. There is a lot I could say regarding the C&R vs keeping the fish. This fish is a world record in the 4 pound and 6 pound line class. It will live forever in the stories of the angler and those who hear about it. The fish was probably getting close to its natural death. How many smaller fish did not achieve adulthood becuase of this fish? On the other hand, there is a lot of respect for a fish like this and a proper release might have been appropriate. I think the angler could have regrets with either decision. The question that none of us can really answer is "what we would have done". You can read the stories that are being posted all over the internet and hear about the many attempts and hardships to achieve this fish. If in the same shoes, and at that moment the fish is in your hands, would you let it go? Potential record, life long pursuit, ability to live with the fish on the wall for the rest of your life, sharing it with others, passing it on to generations, that is a lot to think about while holding a fish like that. From what the stories say, he releases 99.9% of his fish. I understand why he kept it, what it means to him as an angler, and what it represents to his passion and journey. It is more than just a fish. I am thankful I got to read about this and live the experience via articles.
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