Thanks, Bryan!
Simply put, I can't imagine there being any valid argument that lifting 25+ lbs. of Bass by its jaw, can't but hurt it's chances of survival!
Besides, despite what Bill & his Mentor say about "all fisherman..." Why weigh any Bass but what you're keeping/ killing?
I know I for one can eyeball any Striper to be released, even in- water mostly, in the deep night... & give you an accurate weight estimate within 2- 3 lbs. (max error on a bigger fish!) And I'll be closer to 1 lb. + or - most times I assure! (Forget what I've seen or not lifetime: my PB boated is 49 lbs.!)
Yes, my friends have tested this ability of mine-- & lost beers betting against me here!
Bogas aren't necessary to either land... nor control big Bass-- nor to tell you what one to be released weighs! Experience & your eyes will do that for you fine!
(OR: if you must: weigh them in a large net... hooking up only the net- frame to the scale... still not as advisable as no weighing if releasing... but light- years more friendly to the Bass, than lip- weighing is!)
(Save the Bogas for pesky Blues if you must carry them!
Better than grabbing them by the eyes or hard around the gills as I see many do!
)