Here are the links to the articles I wrote for Fish Explorer.COM regarding fish care and handling for carp.

I have been asked many times to write some articles for the community on the appropriate, and Internationally accepted, standards of Fish Care and Handling with respect to carp.

I wanted to start by saying that we all should be advocates for our chosen species with regards to the correct techniques for handling. When catch & release fishing for any species, the goal should always be that the fish is returned to the water in as good, or better condition, than it was caught. We do however also all need to appreciate that no angler is born with the knowledge of the recommended methods of fish care for a given species. These skills are learned through example or taught by others. The appropriate handling for one species may be inappropriate or even fatal to another.

Fish Care, it starts from before you even cast your line out into the water. From using the right tackle, to choosing a safe location, tackle and the rigs you are using. How to play and net the fish. Extra care should be taken once the fish out is out of the water, keeping all surfaces that touch the fish wet to avoid damage to the slime coating. How to weigh your capture and handle it for photographs. Finally, returning the fish to the waters, to swim free, grow and be in as good condition as when it was hooked.