Unhooking Mats & Accessories for Catfish Angling – Safety and Protection for You and the Fish
When it comes to catfish angling, it's not just about powerful rods and strong reels – the right gear for handling your catch with care is just as crucial. In the Unhooking Mats & Accessories category, you'll find everything you need to care for your catfish safely and with respect for its well-being. Here, you'll find high-quality products from renowned brands Black Cat and Zeck Fishing, developed specifically for the demands of catfish angling.
Why an Unhooking Mat Is Essential for Catfish Angling
The catfish is Europe's largest freshwater fish – its body mass and mucous membrane make it particularly sensitive to hard or dirty surfaces. An unhooking mat provides optimal protection:
- Prevention of injuries: The soft, water-repellent surface protects the fish's skin and fins.
- Hygiene: The fish lies cleanly on the mat without direct contact with the ground.
- Calming the fish: The padded surface offers the catfish stability – reducing movement and stress.
- Safe handling: Many mats feature raised sides or fastening options to prevent the fish from slipping away.
What to Look for When Buying
Before you choose an unhooking mat or suitable accessories, consider the following important factors:
| Criteria | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Size | Catfish can grow over 2 meters long – look for large, spacious mats with sufficient length and width. |
| Padding | Thick padding helps protect sensitive body parts during unhooking or photographing. |
| Material | Water-repellent, durable, and easy-to-clean materials like PVC or EVA are ideal. |
| Transport & Weight | Foldable models with carry handles make it easier to transport your gear to the fishing spot. |
More Than Just Mats – Useful Accessories
In this category, you'll not only find mats, but also additional accessories that make handling catfish easier and safer:
- Unhooking tools and safe hook removers: Gentle hook removers allow for safe unhooking without damaging the fish’s mouth or slime layer.
- Care products: Antibacterial fish care products support wound healing after hooking or handling.
- Measuring tapes and weigh slings: For accurate measurement and safe weighing of your catch – often integrable with the mat.
Available Brands – Quality from Experts
At the M&R Tackle Shop, we offer a selection of accessories from two brands that have made a name for themselves in catfish angling:
- Black Cat: Germany’s cult brand is known for uncompromising quality, developed by catfish expert Stefan Seuß. Black Cat unhooking mats stand out with their solid construction, functional design, and high practicality.
- Zeck Fishing: Creative, modern, and 100% focused on catfish angling. Zeck products impress with innovative details, high-quality workmanship, and excellent value for money.
Conclusion: Your Decision Matters
If you fish for catfish responsibly, a high-quality unhooking mat is essential. Not only for the fish’s protection, but also for your own ease of handling and peace of mind when practicing C&R (Catch and Release). Whether you choose a model from Black Cat or Zeck Fishing – our range offers well-designed accessories you can rely on by the water.
Tip: Complete your unhooking mat setup with a Fish Care Kit to create ideal conditions for humane and professional catch handling!