Carp and grass carp

What you need

• Carp cradle/mat with raised sides
• Wet weigh sling
• Disinfectant for the hook wound (fish antiseptic)

Steps

1. 1

   Bring the carp into the landing net and leave it in the water while you prepare the mat.

2. 2

   Lift the landing net by its arms (not the handle, so it doesn't break), put it on the mat and cover the fish's eyes with the wet mesh -- it calms down.

3. 3

   Remove the hook; dab the wound with disinfectant.

4. 4

   For the photo: one hand under the pectoral fins, one in front of the anal fin, the fish held over the mat, kneeling. If it struggles, lower it onto the mat.

5. 5

   Carry it back in the sling or landing net and hold it in the water until it swims off by itself.

Tips

• Use a retention sack only if the lake's rules allow it, and only for a few minutes, in deep, shaded water.
• Grass carp thrash more violently than carp: always keep them on the mat, not standing up.