Lost a big one this weekend

I think I lost a personal best at the boat over the weekend. My dad and I braved the wind Saturday. I hook into a monster, after a scare of it diving under the boat I realize we had forgotten our net. So without thinking I try to pull it up over into the boat then SNAP! My dad and I both got a good look at the thing, he guessed it was 16" long and by the weight that I felt trying to pull him out of the water, well over 2 pounds. In hindsight, should've tried to lip him and bring it over, but I've had bad experiences trying to do that as well. My dad said, "We were going to mount that thing", gee thanks for making me feel better dad.

Moral of the story, never forget your net.

On a related note, that fish went back into the water with my hook still in its mouth. Will it be able to spit the hook out? I'd hate for it to die if it was because of that hook still in its lip

Sorry for the loss, I know how you feel. I lost a 16-17" crappie right at the boat on Monroe on a cold/windy day last Fall. As for the hook, no need to worry. Fish have an enzyme in their body that will cause that hook to rust out of their mouth in just a couple short days. Some studies out suggest fish can not do this, but rather find ways to dislodge the hook themselves. I have always read and heard far more about the enzymes though. Either way, the fish will be fine.

heavier line maybe. lol that sucks been there done that too. you always seem to remember them too. lol i always look to see if hooks in top of mouth too before lifting them in.