Ice out fatties

Rob beautiful fish and the title sums it up......they're some healthy looking fish. Years ago I would never have imagined the Passaic River would or could develop such a great fishery. Really great stuff. Question for the board, are those fish fat because they're filled with eggs or just eating well throughout the winter? Is there natural reproduction taking place in the system or is this all the result of stocking programs? Either way, good to see what appears to be a thriving fishery. Good job on the release, being prepared as you mentioned in your post is 90% of the key to releasing fish safely. Nice job.

[saxmatt]

Nice ones Rob! I wouldn't worry about holding pike that size by the gill plate while unhooking and taking pics, better than letting them flop around on the ground especially if there are rocks or you're on the ice. It's the big ones you have to be more careful with.