.

Assume the fish was lost when the hook pulled out? And possibly that hook ended up in someone's hand?

I think I'm going to stick to using the net for anything that has any size to it

My partner grabbed the line on the biggest smallmouth we had ever seen and lost it. Way over 5 pounds! Don't do it!

Most of the time if done right, the fish just doesn't have a run left in them by the time you grab the line. I was brought up the same way, but a long rod was 6' back then. I watch some of these guys now days and they can't reach the fish without grabbing the line. Times have changed. I personally think if done right, grabbing the line is the way to go.

Sometimes I grab the line to steady the target. You can always grab it lightly and feather it if the fish makes a run. Just enough pressure so you can get a grip on the jaw, or if you don't care and the fish is small enough just hoist him over the side with it.

I always make sure my net is under them before I grab the line!