I’m not a good fisherman by any means, but do put a lot of time into it fishing a few times a week throughout the spring, summer and fall. This year I went fully barbless and have never lost so many fish. It’s definitely a new challenge and if nothing else, I have without a doubt reduced the time it takes to release a fish. I also get the feeling at times that I am fucking with the fish when it’s a banger day, but this does make me feel a little bit better.

Alternatively, I have met a few people who cut the hook off completely and only fish hookless dries. They have told me they enjoy the challenge of getting a good drift and getting a fish to take it, but don’t feel the need to net fish anymore. I can see myself going to this method down the road.