Not sure if this was mentioned, but aside from the viability of the eggs, a 40 or 50# fish is obviously a genetically superior fish to have grown to that size and survived a harsh environment.
In nature, that is how a species stays strong. Stronger males, whether it be deer, grizzlies, wolves, etc. do most of the mating. In fish, the big females are your primary breeders. We all know that.
Passing on that strong genetic makeup is key to any species.
IMO... the worst reason to kill a fish is to show it off. Act like you've been there before... a picture says a thousand words. But its just an opinion.
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