GODMAN’S CARP CARE TIPS
Here at Godman Angling, our main priority is carp care. Not just catching & releasing the fish carefully, but all the steps in between too. Carp care is essential, and an important moral to have when out on the bank, so have a read of our simple carp care guide, IN 7 TIPS!
1. Preparation- Before even removing the fish from the water, you should take some precautions first. Be sure to collapse your landing net, and place the fish in the sling before removing it from the lake. TOP TIP: hold the sling tightly when removing your carp!
You should dampen your hands and wet both the unhooking mat and sling with lake water. This makes sure that the protective slimy membrane on the carps skin doesn’t dry up which could cause damage and scarring to your capture.
Position mats, cameras, scales, etc ready for when you need them, this will save time and ensure the carp is out of water for the shortest time possible.
Removing your carp from the water- Ensure ALL fish's fins are folded flat against its body, and check all scales are flat against its body before lifting your fish from the water. Lift your carp from the water, being cautious not to bump the carp on any obstacles and gently lower the fish onto your mat.
2. Unhooking your carp- When unhooking the carp, you want to avoid damaging their mouths, this often happens when anglers are careless and having poor unhooking skills. The best way to unhook your carp, putting it simply is: Hold the hook at two points, apply steady thumb pressure against the eye of the hook and use your index finger to prevent the hook from moving around. Next, push down the shank in the opposite direction to the point of penetration. If you struggle with unhooking your fish, you may have to use forceps. Oh, and don’t forget, each hook wound should be treated with some form of carp care product.
3. Keeping your carp wet- Using a fresh, cold bucket of lake water, keep the fish well soaked while it is out of water, this will keep the carp healthy and in good condition. Where possible (and if safe), put your mat or cradle in the water to make things even safer.
4. Weighing your carp- Lay the wet sling open on your mat, and lift the fish onto the sling in an upright position. We prioritise this over laying the fish on its side as the movement of lifting the fish up on its side whilst weighing could cause fin damage. As we said before, make sure all the fish’s scales and fins are flat to its body, because if they aren’t, this could cause damage and stress to the carp. Lastly, zip-up the weigh sling to ensure the fish cannot fall out when lifted, then attach the scales to the sling handle and lift your prize, not moving the fish away from the mat.
5. Controlling your carp- If you catch a crazy, unpredictable, naughty fish (we all have!), there are some things you can do to help. If your carp is flipping and flapping all over the place, hold it down firmly, but not forcefully, with your body shadowing the fish. This will block the light, helping the carp relax more. If you’re holding the carp up for a photo, make sure you lower the fish if he starts to wriggle frantically.
6. Holding your carp- Some people still aren’t sure on the best and safest way to hold carp, so we’re going to tell you. Keep the carp low to the ground, holding it up high increases the risk of dropping and damaging the fish. To hold a carp correctly, one hand must be placed with your fingers gripping either side of the pectoral fin and the other hand should repeat the process on the carp’s anal fin. Lastly, always hold your carp close to your body, tuck in your elbows too! TOP PHOTOGRAPHY TIP: Try and show as less of your fingers as you possibly can whilst still maintaining a good grip on your carp, this makes a great catch photo!
7. Godman Products- As carp care is the priority of our business, Godman obviously use eco-friendly, fish & lake friendly products. Our PVA products (e.g our Solu-Ties™ and Versacast™) dissolve, leaving behind no harmful residue or substances, making them great for fishing, and not leaving you worried about mess to clean up! Godman Angling is at the leading edge of carp angling innovation and design. Shop all of our ranges here: www.godman-angling.com