In my opinion, there is a great downside to HSB. While they fight harder than the LMB, they are much less elusive. Let me clarify....almost all HSB are pellet trained at the hatchery, they readily take food from the feeders or hand tossed. Throw in a "worm" during feeding time, you can catch them non-stop, just like catfish, mine anyway. Try that with ordinary Bass.
You pay at the pump
HSB are fine naturally if you have Threadfin or tons of baitfish, otherwise, you are paying for feed to support their weight. Fish the feed and harvest as desired. That somewhat defeats the thrill of fishing for me, great for beginner kids though.
When I get the chance to fish with friends, or my Pop, feeding and catching cheapens fishing skills. (lol, Texas slang) Sure, we use that method if we're looking for a fish fry...but for competition, it's artificial all the way ! LMB still rule as the aggressive predator, hence, the bragging rights always go to the biggest LMB.
