Fish care
Handling and unhooking fish well
The best unhooking routine begins before the first cast, with everything open, wet and within reach.
By the Rodmere team
Prepare first
Place a suitable net, wet unhooking mat, unhooking tool and water container beside you before fishing. Keep the mat away from steep edges, hard objects and direct sun. Larger fish need full-body support.
Net to water
- Draw the fish over the net rather than stabbing at it.
- Keep it in the water while organising the mat.
- Wet hands and equipment before contact.
- Support the body; never lift by line, hook, gill cover or tail alone.
- Use the correct tool. Cut the line or seek help rather than prolonging a damaging attempt.
- Support the fish upright until it swims away strongly.
Photos are optional
Prepare the camera first, keep the fish low and stop if it struggles. In hot conditions, prioritise immediate release. Follow venue-specific retention and treatment rules.
Fish-care source: Angling Trust best-practice guide to freshwater angling. Follow the rules for the fishery in front of you.
Also read weighing and estimating safely.