Hi Marco,

Each approach has several +ve and -ve depending on the fishing circumstances,

The softer approach has some distinct advantages, the fish can be lead to the boat at the same pressure as what the angler had been applying during the fight. This helps to prevent the fish spooking! when additional pressure is suddenly applied.

Another advantage of taking it a bit easier is that if the fish is only hooked very lightly, any sudden increase or decrease in pressure could pop the hook.

However, depending on the circumstances, (deteriorating sea, angler fitness, competition deadlines...there are many)
you may only have 'one shot' at the fish, and need to determine whats best for each paticular situation.

Interested to hear from those with vastly more experience than I have, which technique they prefer.