Pike fishing from a swimming facility is very different from shore fishing, and the key element of equipment here is the right suction. When the predator is on board the boat, the angler does not have the ability to move back or maneuver, so the final stage of catching requires maximum concentration and a reliable tool. An accessory mistake can cost a trophy, damage the tackle or even lead to injury.
Many beginners underestimate the importance of this element, relying on the bumpor or simply trying to take fish with their hands, which is especially dangerous when working with a fish. toothyA well-chosen lift not only keeps the trophy intact, but also minimizes stress for the fish if you plan to release it. In this article, we will discuss in detail the design features, materials and nuances of using the sucker in the limited space of the boat.
It is important to understand that there is no universal solution: for trophy hunting for large pike and for catching “laces” different approaches to tooling are required. Modern materials They allow you to create lightweight, durable structures that don't overload the boat, so let's define what are the critical parameters for successful fishing.
Design features of the subsuck for boat fishing
The main difference between a boat sucker and a shore one is the length of the handle and the general ergonomics, and if a long handle on the shore helps you reach fish in thickets or deep, it becomes a hindrance in the boat, taking up precious space and clinging to tackles. telescopic for a boat varies within 1.5-2 meters in the unfolded state, and when folded it should not exceed 60-70 cm.
The second critical element is the head of the sucker, or rim, and the pike is preferable to the model with the triangular They are better suited to scooping fish from the water without creating unnecessary resistance. Round heads often turn on contact with (water), which can lead to the predator coming off at the last minute.
⚠️ Warning: Never use a metal mesh feeder to catch pike if you plan to let go of the fish. The metal is guaranteed to damage the protective layer of mucus and scales, which will lead to the death of the fish after release.
The head-to-hand grip is also important. turning-pointThis allows you to bring fish underboard without sinking the boat or risking losing balance, and the hard angles are only allowed in specialized models where the angle is already selected by experiment.
Why is a triangular shape better than a round shape?
The triangular shape of the suction head makes it easier to push the net through aquatic vegetation if fishing is in the grass, and it is more convenient to press it against the gently side of the inflatable boat, ensuring a more reliable capture of fish without distortion.
Materials of manufacture: what to choose for pike
The choice of material directly affects the durability of the tackle and the safety of the fish. Modern manufacturers use three main types of materials for the mesh: nylon, siliconized polymers and metal. netting The rubber material is the leader without any alternative, it doesn't injure the gills or the eyes of the predator, and it doesn't confuse hooks as much as a nylon thread.
The subsuction rim is most often made of aluminum or composite materials. Aluminum alloys They're strong and lightweight, but they can corrosion when they come into contact with salt water unless they have a special anodized coating, and they're not a disadvantage, they're lighter and stronger, but they cost a lot more. For most anglers, high-quality coated aluminum is the best choice.
- 🐟 Nylon nettingCheap, but very confusing tees and can injure fish when jerking.
- 🛡️ Rubber netting: Ideal for pike, hooks are easily removed, fish does not get damaged.
- ⚓ Metal mesh: suitable only for kukan, it is strongly not recommended for catching "catch-let go".
The handle should also be made of material that does not slide in the wet hand. Cork inserts Or special soft coatings (EVAs) provide a strong grip even in stormy weather, and wooden handles are beautiful but require careful care and can dry from constant contact with water.
Lubricate the rubber mesh with glycerin or special lubricant before long-term storage in winter, which will prevent drying and cracking of the material, extending the life of the accessory for several seasons.
Dimensional specifications: depth and diameter
The size of the sucker is a balance between the convenience of placement in the boat and the ability to take large fish. For a pike, the minimum depth of the bag should be at least 60-70 cm Pike - the fish is active and strong, and if the bag is small, it can easily jump out of it or get entangled in stakes outside the net.
The diameter (or width) of the head also matters. For fishing from a boat, the optimal width is considered to be about 45-50 cm. Wider models can be uncomfortable in narrow inflatable boats, where every centimeter counts. However, if you are purposefully hunting a trophy pike weighing from 10 kg, it is worth considering models with an increased grip area.
| Pike class | Recommended depth of the bag | Head width (cm) | Type of grid |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small (up to 2 kg) | 40-50 cm | 35-40 | Nylon/Resina |
| Medium (2-7 kg) | 60-70 cm | 45-50 | Rubber |
| Trophy (7+ kg) | 80 cm | 55-60 | Tight rubber |
It is important to bear in mind that depth The bag may differ from the manufacturer's claim due to the strain of the net. Always check this setting live before buying. Too deep a bag can create sailing in the wind and interfere with the control of the boat.
Safety of removal from the boat
The process of lifting a pike into a boat requires a lot of movement and coordination. The main mistake is to try to cut the fish like a bagger. The suction should be submerged in the water beforehand, and you should bring the fish to it already tired. The movement should be smooth, guiding the predator into the net, not catching up with it.
When the pike is above the net, you need to raise the handle with a sharp but controlled movement of the hand, "scooping" the fish. don't pull the handleThis creates a lever that can flip a lightweight inflatable boat or break the suction handle.
⚠️ Attention: When lifting a large pike, never lean over the side of the boat with your whole body. A sharp jerk of the fish can pull you overboard. Always stay in the center of the cockpit using the length of the suction handle.
Once the fish is in the net, immediately lower the end of the handle down so that the head of the sucker lies on the floor of the boat or rests on the side, which will fix the position and prevent the pike from making a candle, and only after making sure that the fish is securely fixed, you can start removing the hook.
☑️ Safe pike extraction
Care and storage of equipment
The proper care of the suction pood prolongs its life and maintains its functionality. After every fishing, especially if the fishing was conducted in salt water or dirty pond, the net and handle must be washed with fresh water. rubber-coated and cause corrosion of metal parts.
Drying the suction should be in the shade, in the unfolded form. Direct sunlight is harmful to polymers and rubber, causing premature aging and brittleness. Telescopic parts of the handle are recommended to be periodically lubricated with silicone lubrication, so that the mechanism does not jam at the most inopportune moment.
Keep the gear in a special case that protects against dust and mechanical damage. If the suction has a replaceable head, make sure that the mounts are dry before packaging. During the off-season, store the equipment at room temperature, avoiding freezing, which can make the plastic brittle.
Regular washing and drying of the sucker in the shade is a guarantee that the rubber mesh will not crack after one season, and the telescopic handle will work like a clock.
Overview of popular models and brands
The market offers many options, but there's a list of leaders among fishermen who have proven themselves in real-world conditions. Flagman, Salmo and Norfin They offer affordable solutions with good value for money, and their models often feature telescopic aluminum handles and changeable heads.
For those looking for a premium segment, you should pay attention to specialized models with a high-end product. carbon-handle These suctions weigh less, which is critical for active fishing throughout the day, they withstand heavy loads and often have ergonomic handles with anti-slip coating.
When choosing a specific model, pay attention to the availability of quick-release This allows you to quickly replace a damaged net or use different types of heads for different fishing conditions without buying a new sucker entirely, and also a useful addition is the ability to attach the sucker to the boat with special holders.
Cheap Chinese counterparts often sin poor assembly of telescopic tubes, which can jam on the first fishing, reliability of the mechanism in an emergency is more important than saving a few hundred rubles.
How to properly remove the hook from the pike in the sucker?
To safely extract the hook, use a yawn and an extractor. With one hand through the net, press the pike's head to the bottom of the boat or board, fixing it. Open your mouth with a yawn, insert the extractor, turn the hook and remove it. Don't try to reach the hook with your fingers without tools, this is a direct route to injury.
Can I use the sap for other fish?
Yes, pike suction is great for pike, bass and catfish, but for small fish (flesh, scavenger), it can be redundant. For battering and small breams, it is more convenient to use small cages or do without them at all, so as not to waste time untangled.
What to do if the sap is stuck in a decomposed state?
If the telescopic handle is jammed, don't use excessive force and hammer. Try tapping the handle slightly on a hard surface (such as the floor of the boat through a rag) to move the stiff segment. You can also use penetrating lubricant (WD-40), dropping it into the junction of the segments and waiting 10-15 minutes.