Good post Red. As a simple follow up. I think one problem that occurs this time of year and during hot water temps is that anglers get complacent at the wrong time. Ok, she is in the net and all is well so long as I keep her in the water. NO, it is not all is well. There is little to no oxygen in the surface water. Basically, the fish is in the water and it is breathing but it is not getting any oxygen. So, if you can't find the pliers, then fool with the hooks and finally get them out after a struggle, then untangle the net, and then take a picture and then put her back and back in forth on the surface.........you're talking about 2 to 3 minutes or more of NO oxygen. Here's a good analogy. Let's have you run a 200 yard dash at full sprint as fast as you can. Then, we'll plop you under water in a hot tub and keep you there for 2.........3 and maybe 4 minutes. How would that be?

I am not against anglers pursuing musky when the water is warm. I strongly believe a quick water release gives the fish it's best chance to stave off delayed mortality and live to fight another day.