01-30-2004, 04:22 PM
It all depends upon the species. Usually, you can release a trout from any depth. They have a more well developed swim bladder than other species. Large mouth, Small mouth and most sea bass are permanently damaged if you bring them up 50+ feet. Out at Blue Lakes 3 years ago I had one bass' bladder come out when he was at the 20-22 foot depth, and killed him mid-way up. I've never had a blue gill do that. Also, with carp and catfish, it happens very rarely. I make a point to NEVER fish over 10' depth for bass, walleye and perch if I don't want to keep them.
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