Fishing from a swimming facility is very different from shore fishing, primarily in terms of catch logistics. When trophies are a few meters from shore, it becomes critical to preserve them and transport them directly in the cockpit of the vessel. A simple fish-to-boat canal solves a variety of problems, from preventing the spoilage of expensive equipment with scales and mucus to ensuring the safety of the crew, eliminating sliding on deck.
The modern market offers hundreds of solutions, from primitive buckets to complex aeration systems. Effective storage The first step in catching a fish begins with the right container to match the type of boat and the length of departure, and mistakes at this stage can cost not only freshness of the catch, but also the integrity of PVC tubes or the coating of the aluminum shell.
In this article we will discuss in detail which fishing-box or fish-tree It's the right way to drain water and fix the tank on the swaying surface, and the proper organization of the space in the boat is a sign of professionalism of the fisherman.
Criteria for the selection of catch capacity
The first thing to look at when buying is the fabrication material, plastic containers are divided into food and technical plastic, and you need to store fish, especially if you want to let go of some of the catch or store it without ice, you need only to use the plastic. polyethyleneTechnical plastic can release toxins that will spoil the taste of meat and make it dangerous to eat.
The second critical parameter is size and shape, and the kang must not only fit into the boat, but also be securely fixed there. Round buckets take up a lot of useful space, whereas rectangular buckets take up a lot of useful space. fishing-box It's important to consider the height of the cockpit, because if the capacitance is too high, it's not easy to get the fish out, and if the wind is strong, it can be pulled out of your hands.
⚠️ Warning: Never use household chemicals or technical liquids to store fish, even after a thorough washing. The porous structure of the plastic absorbs chemicals that cannot be completely washed, which will lead to an unpleasant taste in the fish.
The third aspect is the presence of a cover. Seamless lid It has a dual function: it prevents water from splashing out when rolling and keeps the fish from jumping out. Some models have transparent windows or mesh inserts for ventilation, which is especially important for the use of air conditioners. jelly-cane.
Manufacture materials: plastic, fabric or metal
The classic solution is hard plastic, usually HDPE. plastic-canister They're durable, easy to wash, and they don't absorb smells, but they have a downside, they take up space even when they're empty, and for small inflatable boat owners, this can be a problem, because every cubic centimeter counts.
An alternative is soft folding canes made of durable fabric with water-repellent impregnation, often called foldableThey take up minimal space and easily hide in a flundook. Their design often involves a hard bottom and soft sides, which is convenient, but requires caution when carrying heavy trophies so as not to tear material against hooks or sharp objects.
Metal containers (aluminum, stainless steel) are less common due to weight and cost, but have maximum strength. They are ideal for harsh conditions, but can be too heavy for light PVC boats where generality is important. loading capacityIn addition, the metal heats up quickly in the sun, which is undesirable to keep the catch fresh.
Choosing between hard and soft cane, assess the frequency of your trips. For rare fishing at short distances, soft container is also suitable, but for professional fishing, where the safety of each fish in an ideal presentation is important, it is better to invest in high-quality fishing. heat-container Or a hard box.
To keep the fish alive for as long as possible, use special battery-powered aerators in hard cans that saturate the water with oxygen. In soft canals, this is more difficult to do because of the flexibility of the walls.
Design features and functionality
The modern fish kan is a complex device. A simple bucket is a thing of the past, giving way to multifunctional systems. The key element is the drain system. Having a drain valve or hole at the bottom allows you to quickly empty the container without lifting it or splashing water on the boat, which is especially important when the boat is full of people and equipment.
The inner surface also matters. Smooth walls are easier to wash, but rough texture (often called "anti-slip" inside) can protect the delicate mucus of fish from damage during transportation. professional They are equipped with internal grilles that separate the fish from the bottom, allowing water to drain without removing the catch.
- 🐟 Leakability of joints: welded seams are preferable to glued seams, as they exclude leaks even with prolonged contact with salt water.
- ❄️ Thermal insulationDouble walls with air or foam help keep the temperature low longer, working on the principle of thermos.
- 🔒 Furniture: The handles must be reinforced and the lid latches must be reliable so that they can only open at your will, not from the shock of a wave.
Special attention should be paid to boxes that combine the function of storing fish and seats. multifunctional boxes You should be able to withstand the weight of an adult (up to 100-120 kg) without deformation. When buying, be sure to check the declared load, as cheap plastic can crack at the most inopportune moment.
Why is the color of the canopy important?
Dark canes (blue, black) heat less in the sun and do not shine through, which reduces stress in fish. Light canes are easier to wash and show the contents better, but they heat up faster, which can accelerate the spoilage of the catch in hot weather.
Cleaning and hygiene in the boat
One of the biggest problems with keeping fish in a boat is meltwater and mucus. If you just throw a catch in a bucket, in an hour you'll get a mixture of fish and blood liquefaction that will instantly spoil the meat. flow-system Or regular water replacement.
Many anglers use a hose to drain, one end of which is lowered overboard and the other is connected to a hole in the canal, which creates an effect. flow-waterIf the boat moves, or just change the contents of the container quickly, the static water heats up quickly and loses oxygen.
Hygiene is key to success. After every fishing, the kan must be thoroughly washed. Use special spray disinfectants or a weak solution of chlorhexidine to kill bacteria. The smell of old fish is eaten into the plastic instantly, and it will be almost impossible to remove it afterwards, which will ruin the next fishing trip.
| Type of container | Difficulty washing | The risk of smell | Durability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smooth plastic | Easy. | Medium. | High. |
| Foldable fabric | Middle-Average | Highly | Medium |
| Thermal box (foam) | Hardly. | Low. | Medium |
| Metal | Very easy. | Low. | Very high. |
⚠️ Warning: When washing a canal in a boat, avoid throwing water with scales and entrails directly overboard in the parking area or off the coast, attracting predators and polluting the water body, which can lead to fines from environmentalists.
Fixing and safety on the water
The issue of fixing the cana on deck is often ignored until the first sharp turn or wave. An empty can can just shift, but full of water and fish (weighing 15-20 kg) becomes a dangerous projectile. It can penetrate a PVC canister of a boat or seriously injure the passenger. anchorage It's mandatory.
The easiest way is to use regular liners or rim bolts, if they are provided by the design of the boat. The kang is tied with a sling or a reliable cord. For plastic buckets, special plastic holders are often used that are screwed to the floor (in aluminum boats) or attached to suction cups / Velcro straps (in PVC).
☑️ Checking the safety of the can
In inflatable boats, it is important to avoid friction of hard plastic on the cylinders. Use soft pads or install kan in special niche pockets, if they are in the design of the boat. centreIt is better to put a heavy kan on the floor, not on the can (seat), so as not to increase the risk of overturning the boat.
If you use soft cans, make sure that their bottoms are not sharp elements that can damage the floor of the boat. Some models have a rigid plastic bottom with ribs, which when rolled works like sandpaper. Put a piece of carpet or dense fabric under this can.
Seasonal Features and Winter Fishing
Winter fishing makes its own adjustments. The main enemy is freezing. The usual plastic canal in the cold becomes brittle, and a hit on the ice can break it. foamboxNot only do they keep warm, but they are not afraid of low temperatures.
The problem of meltwater in winter is solved more easily: fish are often frozen directly in the snow or laid in layers, covered with snow. However, if you catch live fish for breeding or sports, you will need to be able to catch a fish. thermostat You can use ordinary canes, wrapping them in old blankets or special covers.
In summer, the main task is cooling, and this is where ice packs come to the rescue, or special cold batteries come in, and it's important not to put fish in direct contact with ice if you want to keep the appearance (the color of the scales), but it's better to put the ice in a sealed bag or use a grille.
There is no universal solution: ventilation and draining are critical for summer, thermal insulation and frost resistance for winter, and it is ideal to have two different canals or one high-quality transformable system.
Remember that in the sun, plastic burns out and deforms. Keep the canes in shade or in protective covers when not in use. Proper care will extend the life of your gear for many seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I store fish in a regular building bucket?
Technically possible, but not recommended. Building buckets are often made of recycled plastic, which can be toxic and give fish a nasty taste, and they don't have sealed lids and comfortable drain systems, making them uncomfortable to use in a boat.
How to get rid of the smell of fish in a plastic can?
Use a solution of vinegar or citric acid to soak. Baking soda also helps effectively. If the smell is deep, you can try freezing the can (if the material allows) or using special odor absorbers for refrigerators.
What is the optimal volume of the canal for a PVC boat?
For a standard two- or three-seater PVC boat, the optimal canals are 20-30 liters. They are roomy enough for a day catch, but do not occupy a critical floor area. For large aluminum boats, options of 50 liters or more can be considered.
Do I need to drill holes in the bottom of the can?
Yes, if you plan to use the kan as a cage or to store fish in water with constant circulation, a hole (or more) in the bottom or bottom of the side wall will allow water to renew if the kan is lowered overboard, or quickly drain the liquid.
What to wash after fishing, so as not to damage the plastic?
Use warm water and soft detergents without aggressive solvents. Hard brushes can leave scratches that will clog dirt. Perfect for dishwashing sponges and kitchenware washing products.