The effects of induced, rapid depressurization upon largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides), simulating conditions common to deep-water angling, were examined. Depths of 0.0, 9.1, 18.3, and 27.4 m were simulated in a large hyperbaric chamber. Statistical analyses indicated that significant mortality occurred when fish were depressurized from simulated depths of 18.3 and 27.4 m. Individuals depressurized from all depths experienced bloating and some external hemorrhaging, while those depressurized from simulated depths of 18.3 and 27.4 m experienced severe internal hemorrhaging and formation of gas bubbles in their blood. If largemouth bass are caught at depths greater than 18.3 m, at least 40% mortality will result from depressurization alone. Therefore, anglers may have to refrain from fishing at these depths if they intend to release their catch.
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Feathers et al. (1983) studied this question.