Fish care
How to weigh a fish—and when estimation is enough
A weight is never worth a rushed lift or an extra minute out of the water.
Set up before fishing
Use checked scales and a purpose-made wet sling large enough for the fish. Zero the scales with the wet sling or record its wet weight for deduction. Keep the mat directly below the lift.
The sequence
- Unhook safely on the wet mat.
- Lay the sling flat and make sure fins lie naturally.
- Close every zip or retaining flap.
- Lift smoothly only as high as needed.
- Read, lower and return promptly.
Never suspend a fish by its jaw or gills. Do not carry a loaded sling around the swim.
Without scales
Length-and-girth formulas vary by species and body shape and can mislead. Unless a formula has a defensible published source, call any figure a rough visual estimate—or simply record the length. Skip measuring if the fish is distressed, conditions are hot or the correct kit is not ready.
Fish-care source: Angling Trust best-practice guide to freshwater angling. Follow the rules for the fishery in front of you.