Based on peer reviewed literature, a 9% release mortality rate is used to estimate the number of fish that die as a consequence of being caught and released. Despite this low rate, the popularity of striped bass as a targeted recreational species means that recreational releases contribute a significant source of mortality to the stock each year. In 2020, recreational anglers caught and released an estimated 30.7 million fish, of which 2.76 million (9%) are assumed to have died; this represents 54% of total striped bass removals (commercial and recreational) in 2020 (Tables 12, 16)."
Would be great if we could get this closer to 1%. Not sure how much circle hooks are helping but I've cut down on my use of treble-hook lures when striper fishing, which I believe has helped me release far more striped bass (mostly school and med-sized) with no mortal injury.
I'd be fine with switching to singles on Plugs/Topwater/Divers, but I really want to know if the release mortality is truly from hook wounds or terrible landing procedures? I've seen so many people drag fish up rocks/bang them into them, using vastly underpowered gear, and keeping them out of the water way too long. I'd be willing to wager that landing procedures are a higher indicator of release mortality than hook wounds (but both definitely play a part).
Great points on all accounts, I just know from my personal experience that I've released way to many "floater" schoolies because of deep-hooking (or gills, eye) with trebles than I'm comfortable with. I'd rather get fewer schoolie hookups with single hooks than risk putting back a floater.
The only way is the way i have taken: No more striper fishing. Thats what they are heading towards.
Meanwhile clueless rec guys think they are the issue. Its quite the bs situation.
To be clear, I'd like to see all commercial fishing for striped bass ended. I certainly believe the commercial impact is greater than is rec, including discarded bycatch (wanton waste) as you mention. I'm just saying that personally, I'd rather release a striped bass with no gill damage (or other mortal injury) if I can and reducing use of treble hooks seems to help that way, based on MY personal experience.