I still make usually two bank trips each week during season to a small lake near home. The shoreline is a mix of things. A rock dam, dirt/ mud, weeds and mowed grass. I've seen other anglers drag bass on rocks, into weeds, and onto dirt, with the fish flopping around the whole time. Since Ive gotten older, it's become harder to bend down to the water and lip the fish I catch. Too many years as a carpenter have taken it's toll on my knees and hip. I plan on modifying a bass size boat net by cutting the handle shorter, and attaching it to my belt loop. Similar to a net wading trout fisherman use. I can keep the net behind me while I'm casting, then reach around and grab the handle, which will attach with an elastic cord. Doing this, I can net the fish when it's still in the water. Then release them. I dont like to see the bass flopping around on the bank. I don't think very many bass guys like to carry a net while shore fishing. Most seem to think a net is a hassle from the bank. I didn't have this problem when I was younger, so I think it's part of getting older. Anyone else carry a net for bank fishing? If so, what's your setup? Just trying to keep these fish in good shape, to live on, grow, and fight another day.
