I think Jerry probably didn't keep these fish on the deck too long. Just a personal feeling. I mean, I've seen guys(amateurs obviously) keep a bass out of the water for at least 5 minutes before they release them. And the bass swims away fine. Even the big girls. Personally I like to keep the fish in the water as much as possible and take some quick pics if I want them. But Jerry Rago, I mean, come on. The guy is probably pretty good at C&R.

I think on the pro tour bass have it harder. I personally think the idea that a pro should will anything under 2 up into the boat is crazy. The fish get good care once they're in the livewell on the tours. But it's pretty tough on a fish to be pulled 3 feet into the air by it's lip without any sort of injury. Anyways, how many times have you seen a pro lose a nice fish at the boat,on ESPN, tryin' to do the air lift?