cradles or nets?

[lumbertick]

Here's my question. I have been using a net to land my fish and I don't like the way it roughs up the fish. I am thinking of switching to a cradle, however I fish alone a lot and I am not sure if you can land a fish alone with a cradle. I have never used one so I am not sure which way to go. Any ideas?

lt

[Trailblazin]

I use a big net and have done so for years. I can't think of anybody in the musky business in the Midwest (guides, etc.) who isn't using a net. Of course, it's important to use a net with a treated bag to minimize slime loss and split fins. Frabill's Big Kahuna net even has a large, square piece stitched into the bottom to keep the net open and not collapsed around the fish. In a sense, your net becomes a big, in-the-water livewell.

Net the fish at the first opportunity. Leave the net draped over the side of your boat so the fish can continue to breathe. Unhook it in the net while your buddy sets up the camera(s). When the camera(s) are ready, pick the fish up for a couple of photos, then back in the lake. This way, your fish is out of the water for only seconds, and the release should be good.

[RuKiddingMe]

A cradle is a two man operation no matter which way you slice it, I have found them to be quite dangerous too. Think about it this way, the person with the cradle has to get down near the fish to get it in the cradle, but what happens when the fish rolls and the lure comes flying out at 100+ MPH right at or next to his head, man that's scary...

Like the previous post said a big treated bag net is the way to go...

RU

[Fish-n-Freak]

Ditto and Ditto

Get a big GOOD net, it will cost you $120 bucks, but will last many years, and prevent a face full of hooks.

Good Luck

[buzzsaw]

Use your hands.... seriously. It can be dangerous if you don't know were to grab them and if they are not tired out enough. You don't want your hand to go into the gills, the teeth are located right behind these and one jerk and it's your blood on the boat floor. Hold them firm under the chin and don't get nervous when they move around. This is easier said than done for beginners or people who have not tried it a few times. You can always use one of those fish gloves as well, some people may say thats hard on the fish but I say it's easier on them than a big net. Practice C.P.R. and get replica's made boys. ( :

[lumbertick]

Well I did it...went out and bought the big kahuna...looks like a good net...I have to admit that the one I had was a cheapie. Now to put it to use!! Thanks for all the info...this place is a great source for us beginners!!!

[scottiet33]

i agree with buzzsaw

[buzzsaw]

I'm curious how any of the pro staff would answer this question? And Thanks Scottie!

[guideman]

Here's your answer Scotty,

Use a net!

Cradles are dangerous and Big fish can swim right out of them, if handled the wrong way. Get a tailing glove if you want to hand land your fish. It works much better than sticking your fingers in the gills at boatside. You just grab the tail and lift under the belly, it works every time.

When hand landing you are putting the fish and yourself at risk. The more you handle them the more chance there is of dropping them. It's also very difficult to remove hooks, while your holding the fish in one hand. It's especially hard on the muskie....buy a net!

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Terry "Ace" Sjoberg
aceguideservice.com
Lake Vermilion
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