I dont know about the whole mortality rates at tournaments, but one thing is for sure, If you keep a fish it is defintely going to die .

Im sure most people who fish tournaments would do whatever is necessary to keep the fish alive and healthy for release. The problem seems to be lack of education in keeping the fish safe and how to release them. Maybe the dep should hand out pamphlets or other info on how to do this effectively? Or possibly ban people who dont take the necessary steps to protect this fish, etc.?