This is maybe comparing apples to oranges, but an interesting study in C&R mortality on speckled trout (considered a fragile species). I'd wager surviability for hybrids is as good or better regardless of the time of year.

http://www.ccasouthcarolina.com/Tide/tide_sept%20Trout.htm

You know, studies show that barbless hooks set twice as easy as the barbed equivalents (and they are obviously easier to remove from fish and people). Can't see why anyone uses barbed hooks of any type.

My two cents: C&R those hybrids and use barbless hooks!


Graham

I said to myself I would stay out of this debate but, I can't. I'm no expert by any means or a top guide but I've fished with people that have never caught fish in numbers and size, like you can hybrid fishing. For them to throw back fish that size is like cutting their right arm off. I've caught fish that size and in numbers before, so its easier for me to throw them back. In the early days I kept a bunch, to show everyone, and in some cases I gave them away. I've since learned that the hybrid resource in my area was more precious to me for fun than it was for table fare. I hope not to affend you guys in any way. I love this board for info and debates such as this. Instead of seeing how many survive after being caught I would like to know how many are actually eaten and not freezer burned in the freezer.