Here are a couple of replies to my emails if anyone is interested. I hope Todd and Bob don't mind.
I have very little experience moving black bass in water less than 50F. Our water temps normally don't stay below 50F for long during the winter. I think a lot of it depends on how you harvest and handle these fish.
For example, HSBs are susceptible to fungal infections with water temps in the 50s. We've had significant problems after seining HSBs in cool weather, but we can harvest them rod/reel or with the shocking boat with good results. Just remember to use salt at around .5 - 1% in your transport water.
Yes, the fish should handle better in fall, than in late winter.
Todd
Cecil,
Handling bass in cold water and leaving them in cold water can absolutely lead to fungus problems. If their slime coat is compromised in any way, they can fungus. But, if they are moved from cold water, handled properly, medicated and moved to warmer water, there's not nearly the problems.
Lusk
