We all want to catch fish that are in prime condition. Whilst out of their natural environment, the precious carp we catch are vulnerable, and it’s our duty to handle carp safely on the bank and ensure they are not harmed. Their time on the bank not only permits us to capture the moment but also represents an opportunity to check their condition and give them a little healing assistance if required.
A good quality unhooking mat is required to safely handle carp on the bank
Organised kit is key to handling carp on the bank
So, how do we go about making sure our quarry is looked after when we catch them? Organisation is the key, and it’s essential to make sure everything is ready in order to minimise the time a fish spends out of the water. It’s also important to have a system to work to so everything goes like clockwork.
What kit required for good carp care?
- Landing net – Your landing net should preferably have a deep mesh that allows fish to rest comfortably. Holes and tears in the mesh can catch and damage fins or allow leads to pass through, risking mouth tears, so check regularly and repair or replace as necessary.
- Unhooking mat – The bigger your unhooking mat, the better, and we’d advise one with a retaining flap. Fishery rules might dictate which type you have. Mats with raised sides prevent carp sliding off but do require them to be held higher for the trophy shots. Your weigh sling must be sufficiently large enough for the carp you catch, be soft and protective and have plenty of drainage.
- A water container – A water container of some sort will allow you to keep your fish wet, maintaining its protective mucus (slime) and gills from becoming dry. It’ll also keep the fish looking natural and clean in your photos. A bait bucket, particle jar, or collapsible bucket are all fine.
- A pair of forceps – In your scales pouch, you’ll need a pair of forceps (straight or angled) and a pair of cutters, such as those found on crimping tools. It’s not a bad idea to have a large, old-fashioned plastic disgorger too.
- Carp care antiseptic liquid – The last requirement is some carp care antiseptic liquid for the treatment of wounds or damage. It’s worth having a spare in case you run out or experience a nozzle blockage.
image credit to Beausoleil Carp and Cats
You’ve just landed a carp so what are the steps to follow to ensure its safety?
1. Securing the net is the first job
A bivvy peg or bank stick will do the job of making sure it doesn’t disappear into the lake. Then you want to see if you can unhook the fish or unclip the rig, in the net. There is a slight risk that, should a rig component become caught in the mesh it could cause the hook to tear in the fish’s mouth. If you can’t, then make sure the line is really slack and loosen off the reel’s clutch.
Secure the net whilst you organise the equipment for weighing and photos
2. Prepare everything you need for the photos
Whilst it’s perfectly possible to carry out the whole procedure solo it’s always easier with two, especially as the excitement of catching a big carp can take over. Either way, it’s time to get everything ready so that the fish is out of water for the minimum time and not left unattended. Choose your location for your photos based not just on the light and aesthetics but also on the ground and topography. Position your mat either on flat land or a slight incline towards you. Grass or soft ground is preferable to gravel or concrete. Fill your water bucket with fresh lake water and place it, along with your unhooking kit, within reach, next to the mat, soak your sling and tare (zero) the scales. Get your camera settings sorted ready to go. Although rare, it’s not impossible for your fish to jump out of the net so be on the lookout and put your mat inside if it’s particularly lively.