When we are young we are taught to have respect for lots of different things. Respect your elders, respect your parents, respect your teachers, respect authority etc. I feel that if a person has respect that it not only makes them a well rounded and liked person, but it will also take you far in life and just make you feel good at the end of the day. However, I feel that sometimes there is a lack of respect for the fish that are being caught. Personally I am a catch and release fisherman, I never keep anything I catch. However, I am not against people keeping fish as long as the rules that are set in place are being followed. As far as keeping “trophy fish”, I have turned loose tons of fish 5 lbs and over. There are many companies these days that will replicate anything you catch as long as you have a photo and proper dimensions. I do not keep these types of fish because if you want fish to stay large, you have to keep those good genetics in the water and cull out the smaller ones. I also think knowledge is a powerful thing. People should be taught to use the proper fishing equipment, how to properly remove a hook, and how to handle the fish when its out the water, so it doesn’t die when its released. I personally feel that if a fisherman respects the fish, and the environment the fish lives in it makes for a much better experience for all involved. So the next time your on the water, remember that even though your having a good time, you have somethings life in your hands and it shouldn’t be taken lightly. Respect and responsibility will make you a better fisherman way before new rods and reels will.