i don't understand, how does a barbed hook not penetrate more (or less) than a barbless hook? and once the fish is hooked, the part in contact with its mouth is the same bend of the hook whether barbed or barbless. with correct tension on the line, the barb shouldn't play a role in "fighting" the fish. if slack occurs and the hok backs out a minute amount, wouldn't the barb cause some bodily damage to the fish?
in my flyfishing over the past 5-6 years, i can't recall anytime a fly has been taken into the throat by a fish. granted, i fish for trout in streams and rivers and most of the time with dries or emergers but have started using nymphs. the dozen or so LM bass i've caught with streamers, nymphs and poppers have all been at the lip of the fish or corner of the mouth.
i generally buy my flies and 98% or so are barbed and i pinch them down with smooth needlenosed pliers as soon as i open the package or container at home. if there's a bit left, i'll use a small file if i can. i once had a large stimulator embed in my right hand with a pinched down barb and the ever so small slightly discernable remnant was enough to cause a problem and had to do minor surgery cutting through my skin with my left hand which cemented for me the need for barbless. and once i hook into a fish, if it comes loose (rarely) good for him or her. i consider that part of the challenge and need for skill on my part.
i've started tying a couple of patterns myself and always go for the barbless version. they're the same price as the barbed version and are so much smoother in releasing. i just don't see the need for barbs in my case.
eric
fresno, ca.