jigman makes some good points. I recently read an article about smallmouth in lakes in our region that are over five pound are approaching the end of their life cycle. It went on to say that a average smallmouth in the 21 inch plus range and over five pound was at least 13 years of age and many were 15 years of age. The Fish and Game people actually would rather you keep a 6 or 7lb smallmouth than to release it as they feel it won't live much longer than it has anyway. I'm not sure I agree with that 100%, however their logic seems pretty sound after reading the article. Also it's not only about the size but the lesser creel is a huge benefit as well as pertaining to the slot. So what the slot doesn't have to be exactly the same as on Dale, let's tweak it a bit how hard would that be. The department of Fish and Wildlife does way too much fishery management in this state to appease Tournaments then it does to what's best for the fisheries. That's just the almighty dollar there in it's glory. Sorry for all the ranting but as you can tell I feel strongly about this subject I can't help it.