Direct answer: landing gear is where you either do carp fishing properly… or you don’t. A big net, a safe unhooking surface, and a decent sling protect the fish and protect you. In Michigan, where you’ll often deal with weed, wind, and awkward banks, the right landing gear makes the whole session smoother.
Quick Start
Minimum safe kit for Michigan carp:
- Large landing net (42–50 inch)
- Unhooking mat or cradle (proper padding)
- Weigh sling (or floating retention sling if you use one)
- Long forceps + small cutters
- Water for mat (keep the fish wet)
If you only upgrade one thing: upgrade the mat/cradle and net.
Step-by-step: a safe landing routine
1) Before you cast, set up your landing area
- Mat/cradle flat, ready, and wet
- Forceps/cutters where you can grab them instantly
- Camera/scale ready if you’re weighing (no scrambling)
2) Net the fish properly
- Lead the carp over the spreader block
- Lift with the handle low and controlled (don’t “scoop and heave”)
- If the fish surges, give it time — don’t force it
3) Move the fish safely to the mat/cradle
- Keep everything low and calm
- Wet the mat and the fish if needed
4) Unhook and check the mouth
- Remove hook carefully with forceps
- If it’s awkward or deep, slow down and do it right
5) Weigh and photo (if you’re doing it)
- Sling the fish low to the ground
- Zero the scale first
- Keep it quick — no hero shots
6) Return the fish safely
- Support it in the water until it kicks away strongly
Featured Guides
- Playing Carp Near Weed & Snags (internal link)
- Fish care basics: unhooking, weighing, photos, release (internal link)
- Carp Fish Care in Michigan: Unhooking, Photos, Weighing, and Safe Returns (link)
- Weighing Carp the Right Way: Sling, Scales, Quick Photos, and Zero Drama (link)
Do This / Avoid This
Do this
- Use a big net and a proper mat/cradle every time.
- Keep the fish low and wet.
- Have forceps and cutters ready before you hook a fish.
- If you’re on rough ground, bring a cradle (it’s worth it).
Avoid this
- Beaching carp