Carp Cradles, Mats
From a C&R perspective, the most important factor is the time elapsed between netting and release. Because this is where we can truly be fish-friendly, or where things can truly go wrong. This is why selecting the appropriate carp cradle and carp mat is of paramount importance!
TACKLEBAIT offers carp cradles and carp mats from many renowned brands. All types are available! Let's look at the mat variations, including: accordion system mat, one-piece mat, suitcase system mat, and mat with side walls, and predator fish mats should not be left out of the list either.
There is no shortage of carp cradle variations either: with stand, without stand, fixed and with adjustable legs, the real specialties are the inflatable cradle, the 'crocodile' type cradle, and the foldable cradle. A unique feature of the latter types is that the mat part can be used separately.
What is the difference? The most significant difference between a carp mat and a cradle is that the movement of a fish placed in a carp cradle is restricted due to the cradle's design, and thus the fish is much safer. In the case of a carp mat, much greater attention must be paid to ensuring the fish does not injure itself and remains on the safe mat.
Time for a carp mat! Almost everywhere, and this should thankfully be taken literally, the use of a carp mat is mandatory. Although it cannot do nearly as much as a carp cradle, but its use is absolutely welcome! What criteria should we use to choose? As truly good advice, I can say that, if possible, we should look for types made of higher quality, padded, and last but not least, quick-drying material! The truth is that any carp mat is better than nothing… But to be a little more specific, it is worth choosing from the so-called suitcase-style types. This mat type has handles, thanks to which we can easily and safely return the fish to its life-giving element.
The pitfalls of choosing a carp cradle... Let's go up a level and look at carp cradles! What criteria should we use to choose a carp cradle? Fortunately, the selection is huge, as the demand for these products has also increased. The diversity of the offerings partly makes the choice easier, and partly more difficult. Due to price competition, one can stumble upon some very bad, almost unusable products, which is why it is important to explore the topic more thoroughly, as ideally, we are not buying a carp cradle for only 1-2 years! Here too, look for quality materials and sophisticated design, the combination of which results in durability, which is one of the most important aspects in making a decision!
Size matters! As good advice, one thing is worth considering before purchasing your chosen carp cradle! Because size matters! If our logistical possibilities are limited, it is better to choose compact models. The latter types are the so-called foam-padded, well-cushioned carp cradles without a stand or legs. Among these, you can also find one with a lockable 'lid', which can be a very useful function during “C and R”.
