Problem...

Yesterday I caught a 4lb bass. The problem is, while the lure was sinking I
got a strike but I didn't feel it. It was about 95 here in Mass and the fish
were very inactive. Bet you could guess what happened next... gut hooked. I
tried to remove the hook but it was too embedded. I didn't have cutters
strong enough to cut the hook (which I plan on bringing next time), so I
had to let him go with the hook still in.

I keep hearing conflicting reports on what to do. Should I cut the hook as
far down his stomach as I can and let him go, or leave the hook alone and
leave 18 inches of line as a leader....

Does anyone have the definitive answer yet...

I hate when this happens...