Protocol for Recording Fish Weight

Calm down — compose yourself and plan carefully.

Care for the fish — keep it safe in the landing net until ready.

Find witnesses — at least one, preferably two. Claims without witnessed weighings are invalid.

Weigh properly

• Zero scales with sling, net or bag.
• Place fish, record reading.
• Photograph or video the process if possible.

Photographs

• Clear colour shots.
• Show proportions with a tape measure or objects.
• Avoid "arm's length" shots.
• Capture identifying features.

Return or retain

• Coarse/game fish: return alive (where required).
• Sea fish: may need dissection or X-ray for identification.
• Never kill protected species.

Scale removal (optional)

• For Roach, Rudd and Crucian Carp: remove one scale (flank, between dorsal fin & lateral line) for DNA analysis.