That no one/few know about? I know the guide at Fork turned one loose, and it made me think just how many a year are caught that dont see social media or a group text? Just incredible how many he has caught.

A bunch, I've done it once

Would not say a bunch... I would say less than 5-7 a year... that number might be high too.

You include private water way more than that easy. I'd guess after the negative PR the program got when it killed every fish in 2015 and only 2 were entered the following year I would say there are about the same amount if not more released back as are turned in every year.

It happens yes.

I turn all of mine back...

Me too!

I turn mine back before they ever hit the boat.

same here can't tell you how many deep cranking fish that were huge have jumped like a whale to throw my crankbait lol

Never caught a 13 but I've broken a bunch off...……………...

Never even let them bite my lure, don't want to injure them all!

Ive only known of one that i had on back in early 90s i dont wanna even guess how big she was as i way underestimate the fish i have on that ive seen that she was so big she only rolled at the surface before getting off. Thought i was hung up and started pulling back when she pulled back.
But i would guess up to maybe 3-4 each year otherwise you would see pics, not many who catch 13+ keep to themselves, i know i wouldn't.

The ultimate conservationist

I have had a good run of catching as few pre-13+ each year when they were still young and in the 3-5 lb range.