Certainly not all Lanier bass have worms. I've not had that issue. I had a fish-fry on Fathers' Day weekend, and one about a month earlier. The spotted bass were fine, just fine. Deep fry! Yumm... Yes, I catch and release, too. I think if you're going to eat, then keep. No waste. A good "Wall Hanger" might look nice over the mantle, too, but I've not caught such an animal (that and the wife has other ideas).
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Don't tighten it while you're fightin' it!