Once we have caught our prized carp we want to look after it and release it back again to the lake or river we are fishing in the best possible condition. Just a few little things can make a very big difference including keeping it out of the water for the minimal of time, keeping it wet, sacking it up probably if necessary (I will look at this another time) having a suitable unhooking mat and also treating any hook marks or sores on the carps body etc, etc.

There are enough products on the market from such companies as Nash and Korda for it to be no longer an excuse not to carry any. As you can see in the picture we want all carp’s mouths to look like this and if you treat your hookhold with a small dab of antiseptic it will go along way to achieving this and stop it getting infected. Also this time of year sees carp spawning and the likelihood of them damaging themselves, again, once caught treat any sores or scratches this will save them getting worse. Just a few precvious moments thought and appreciation for your prized catch will mean it getting back in tip top condition for the next capture.

Im off fishing in Brittany for the next few weeks, I will let you  know how I get on when I return.

Be lucky