A guide to caring for your catch

Getting organised

1 The hard part is done and the fish is safely in the net 2 Secure net with a bankstick to let the carp recover 3 Prepare unhooking, weighing and camera equipment 4 Position unhooking mat/cradle and wet with lake water

carp Lifting out the

1 Remove rig from fish's mouth or open bail arm on reef 2 Breaking down the net makes lifting out the fish easier 3 Ensure rig isn't caught in net, check for obstructions 4 Check fins are flat, roll down net and slide into sling 5 Carefully lift out the water and carry to the wet mat

Unhooking

1 Remove hook using forceps if required 2 if the fish starts to flap, cover its eyes until it relaxes 3 Apply antiseptic product to the hookhold

Weighing

1 Lift the carps head and gemtly slide out of the net 2 Position fish in centre of sling and check fins are flat 3 Fasten the zips to prevent the carp sliding from the sling 4 Hool scales through handles. Hold scales using top lopp

ng Lifting & holdi

1 Douse carp with lake water 2 Carp are cold blooded so cool your hands in water 3 Roll up sleeves and hold arounf pectoral and anal fins 4 If the fish starts to flap roll back on to your forearms 5 Keep carp as low as possible over mat during photos 6 Return fish in sling, supporting it until it swims off

ed organis Getting out he carp Lifting t ing Unhook holding Lifting & Weighing