BG - I also believe the 50% mortality rate is in error too. In certain conditions you may approach a 50% rate ('course, some conditions are permanent mortality
like fillet and release). Yes, a gut-hooked striper out of water for 10 minutes, caught on light tackle, in hot-tub temp water would be on that high end 50% rate (or worse), a properly handled and released fish on the right gear is going to return a much better survivability rate.
I'm concerned because as a marine bio as you state, you are speaking in some of those generalities and casting a large net over other stuff, much as politicos and many environmentalists are casting a net wider than necessary. So if this more of an issue with split shot and rubber cores in brackish waters than why are we being sucked into the hot air vortex as well?
I would like to know more specifics and certainly those where your specialties lie.
I wish I could speak more detailed and more narrowly define my post but I need to go to work before my taxes are increased and my output is further regulated.
