Moving Monster Fish

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CANAMONSTER

Redtail Catfish
MFK Member
Dec 5, 2012
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Barrie
Hey Guys, I was just wondering if any one can share some tips or there ways of Moving Monsters with ease! Minimal thrashing and avoiding injury to the fish. Im talking 18 inch Plus fish! I am going to move soon and I am going to have to move my Big Boy Umbee whos almost 20 inch to the new house. I know they have a lot of paaaawer at that size so I want it to go nice and smooth.

I know the guys with Peacock bass are pros at this.

One method I like is a huge Bag and you hold it in the tank and the big boy will just swim right in it............

Lets hear other Ideas!
 
I've seen pillow cases used with great success to net the fish up to be put in the moving container.

that is a great idea.




Or get a big tub that fits him. Scoop him up with that, once he's in there, pour out water to lighten it up then lift the container out with him in some water

Sounds fun
 
I'd net him out and wrap him in a damp towel.
 
pillow case a good ideal for netting, then move to a large cooler (not Styrofoam) and put the top on, keep it dark, if not going far a he should be fine. for a longer trip you are going to want to be running a battery powered bubbler.
 
Very cool Ideas!
For netting I seen those big rapala nets with very fine mesh used for angling?
I like the pillow case Idea
 
I've helped a friend net 30+ inch Asian aros using a crowder net that basically consists of two poles with a net in between. I've also used large clear bags and slowly herded the fish into the bag. Patience is key, do not attempt to rush the fish. IMO pillow cases could easily spook a large fish, potentially causing injury. Better to use large clear plastic fish bags. Any store in the GTA that handles Asian aros should have a few kicking around. I would also recommend lightly sedating large powerful fish to keep the fish calm during transport. Again, check with local Asian aro dealers for what they use and have on hand. Good luck, Mike.
 
Rubber fishing nets are by far my favorite choice for 18-30" fish, good on fins and slime coat...anywhere from $20-60 for a good one at a sporting good store. Anything bigger than 30"... use bed sheets lol...dont waste ur time with a pillow case, they dont work so well underwater and ud be surprised, a 20" will have a hard time fitting in one.

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I used a pillow case to move my 24" pacu and 24" knife. And all my other fish. its easy. only one that was a pain in the ass was the CK.
 
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