Bow to the Fish

[Dando]

I heard this piece of advice many years ago. I think of it from time to time, but, that's about it.
When a fish jumps, especially a big fish, "bow/ " to him. (thus effectively, instantly, putting slack in your line to prevent break-offs).

Now, I'll not be doing that. "L" NO!
I'm gonna have enough pressure on him to move him a good 5ft toward me while he's airborn .
But, just curious if any you sissies actually ?

[HeavyMetalBassinKing]

I don't "bow" but I try to keep the line tight while still keeping the fish under water...
I have made 5 lb fish ski before though...

[xpress spanky]

Well that depends Danny,if your using a fairy wond you better bow to the fish,but if your using a telephone pole with 500lb test i try to keep the pressure on!!

[JStew]

Once I set the hook - I bury the end of the rod in the water. When they start to come up - I reel faster to keep them from jumping. It's harder for them to come loose if they can't jump at all.

[rowdyrabbit]

I also try to keep the tip as low as possible, and sometimes in the water. I read a magazine article once on what to do after the fish is hooked. There was alot of good information. One thing I didn't do before reading it is to try to see how the fish is hooked as soon as you hook up. That way you will know whether to try to horse it in, or if you need to be easy.

[turkdaddy]

Keep your drag set correctly, and reel like hell. Thats what I do.

[Eyra1]

I had heard "bow to the fish" as well years ago. BUT, it was on a fishing show about Tarpon fishing. They call them "silver kings" and when they jump, you "bow to the king".
Tarpon, you know...those giant minnows they get off the coast of Florida. Cuz' that's what they look like...........
I have to CATCH a fish to even think about bowing........

[Dando]

I've just never bowed to a fish.
Been known to moon other anglers every now and then though.