There are two ways to measure fish: weight and length. There are several lip grippers on the market that also have calibrated scales to weigh fish. If you are planning to release a fish, then vertically weighing the fish is not the optimal way to measure the fish. Suspending a fish vertically by its lip puts stress on the fish’s internal organs. The bigger the fish, the greater the stress and the less likely the fish will recover and survive. A less stressful way to measure a fish is by length. You can use length charts to estimate the weight of the fish or you can measure the length and girth of the fish and compute it’s weight using the IGFA Fish Weight Formula: ((Girth x Girth) x Length) / 800) lbs.
In recent years, a retractable vinyl tape measure has gained popularity. I must say that this product is innovative. But, its internal retracting mechanism is fragile and does not last a full season. It also has a limited length. I target BIG fish! 😉
I now use a simple wide vinyl yard ruler, which is commonly used by tailors. No moving parts. Nothing to rust or break. Easy to read. It measures perfectly each and every time. 🙂
