I didn't get to chime in on the thread with the 60Lb fish before it was closed, so I thought I would raise a question. Please chime in if you can without attacking individuals
So I have read as much as I can find on the topic of egg fecundity and viability in bass. Based on the available research, data indicates roughly that a 12lb female produces s about 850,000 eggs, and a 55lb bass about 4,200,000. As to the issue raised about the viability of eggs in older fish, there is little data, but most of what i have found did not show a major decrease in viablity in the 50-60lb range/age class. Even a decrease of 50% in a55lb still gives about 2,000,000 viable eggs.
I know the argument becomes "it's legal so don't even question it when someone keeps a large ( or 2) fish." So should the laws be changed to protect large bass. Something similar to the red drum rules in NC (1@ 18-26" I think). Maybe a variation of that? I personally would not get anything out of keeping a big fish and
only would if it was not gonna make it.
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