Floating Stripers ????

[Vinsott]

Friend was kayak fishing around PC and found a 20lb floater, and a bigger one on its last kicks.  He weighed the bigger one at 35 lbs.  Said they were fat and didn't have any obvious signs of being caught.  I'm guessing released fish that are dying???? Livewell kept and then released before removing boat??  Not sure but a shame. PC seems too warm for them this soon I would think, but  everyone reading this that doesn't post should hit the ramp first thing tomorrow at PC and let me know if they are there.

 

[Stump bumper]

I'm betting they were caught very deep on the North end and thrown back when the guilty party was leaving. They may have had some chance if release right away. Then again they may have come from the water intake area, there are some big deep fish there all year, but they will die when brought up in this warm of water. I think there is a big spring in that area, I once spooned up a big bluegill at 80 feet in that area.

This is not the time of year for catch and release. Those were really nice fish that could have been real trophies in a year or two.

 

[fishinwrench]

Stripers are well known for fighting to their death.  They don't overcome stress very well.