How to Net Your Fish With Ease

 

So, you've got yourself an aquarium and a bunch of fabulous fish swimming around.

But what if you need to catch one of those slippery swimmers?

Whether it's for moving them to a new tank or doing some maintenance, breeding  or treating illness, we all will need to move our fish at some point.

I'll spill the beans on how to catch fish in an aquarium like a boss, without stressing anyone out too much, including yourself and those slippery swimmers.

 

 

Gather Your Gear!

Before you embark on your fish-catching adventure, gather these essential tools to be fully equipped:

• Fish net:

Grab a net with small enough holes to avoid hurting the fish, but not too large that they will slip through. Standard nets tend to be too porous for Shrimp, so use a special fine- meshed net.

 

• Container:

Get yourself a sturdy container to temporarily house the captured fish. Old Tupperware or other plastic to-go containers work just fine.

 

• Gravel or Sand Siphon:

This nifty tool helps remove any debris that gets kicked up  that could make the catch more challenging.

 

• Flashlight:

If you've got nocturnal fish, a flashlight will help you spot them hiding in the shadows. You'll also get that tell-tale flash of scales  when you move it back and forth... betraying their position!

 

• Treated, Cycled Water:

Be sure your container has a scoop of the original water from the tank you are collecting fish from. Avoid shock

 

Plan Like a Pro!

Successful 'fishing' requires a bit of forethought.

Consider the following:

• Timing is Everything:

Choose a time when the fish are most active, like feeding time or when they hang out near the water surface. Mine come running when they see me, as they associate people with food!

• Zen Mode:

Keep calm and avoid rushing. Patience is the name of the game.

 

Clear the Path!

 

Prepare your aquarium for an easy catch by clearing the path:

• Say Goodbye to Obstacles:

Remove any decorations, plants, or rocks that might get in the way of your fish-catching.

• Adjust the Water Level:

It's a good idea to lower the water level slightly to create more space for maneuvering your net.

• Plant Care:

Corral floating plants away from the area you want to maneuver in to avoid shredding them in the process.

 

Luring the Fish!

 

To make the catching process more effective, you can entice the fish to swim closer to the net.

Try the following techniques:

• Food Bait:

Use their favorite food to lure the fish closer to the net. Then.. Swoop!

• Diversion:

If possible, create a diversion in the aquarium by blocking one area with your hand or a large object, encouraging the fish to swim toward the open space that your net is waiting in.

 

The Catching Process!

 

Now it's time to catch your fish.

Follow these steps to ensure a successful and stress-free capture:

• Slow and Steady:

Approach the fish slowly with the net, avoiding sudden movements that may startle or harm them.

• Swift Movement:

When the fish is within reach, move the net quickly but smoothly to scoop it up without causing any harm.

• Gentle Handling:

Once caught, carefully invert the net, transferring the fish to the container. Be gentle to avoid unnecessary stress or injuries. Do it as quickly as possible to avoid distress

 

Aftercare!

 

After catching the fish, it's crucial to provide a comfortable environment for them.

Consider these post-catch guidelines:

• Temporary Accommodation:

Place the fish in the clean container filled with water from the original aquarium.

Ensure the container has adequate oxygenation and is large enough for the fish to swim comfortably. Add a lid of some kind to prevent jumping accidents.

• Minimal Stress:

Keep the fish away from excessive light, noise, and sudden temperature changes during their temporary stay.

• Swift Return:

Return the fish to their original tank as soon as possible to minimize any disruption to their regular routine.

 

Congratulations, you're now equipped with the know-how to catch fish in your aquarium like a true pro!

With patience, preparation, and a gentle touch, you can ensure a minimal stress experience for both you and your finned friends.

Remember, the key is to create a comfortable environment, handle the fish with care, and return them to their familiar surroundings as quickly as possible.

Happy fishing!