It's sad but true, the Calcutta is the best. Their drags are far superior to anything I have ever used. I have always used Ambassador, but sometimes the truth hurts :-)

I always have my drag set tight, with the fish hooked I back off my drag a little when it gets close to the boat, just in case it makes a hard run, I want him to take a little line. I also will use my thumb but won't free spool it. Also, I like to have my rod tip up so if the fish does go, the rod will absorb the pressure instead of the line.

Once the fish is in the bag, I hook part of the net around the cleat. At this point I start cutting hooks. It makes for a faster and safer release. I can always replace hook, you can't replace a damaged fish.

This is just one mans opinion.