Carp are among the most popular recreational fishing species in Europe, and evidence-based handling practices significantly reduce welfare harm from catch-and-release fishing.
Carp welfare in recreational angling receives more attention than most other fish species due to the carp angling community's long tradition of catch-and-release fishing. The welfare challenge is real — carp experience physiological stress during capture and handling that is minimized but not eliminated by best practices. Evidence supports that proper handling including minimal air exposure, wet hands or unhooking mats, and prompt return to water substantially reduces welfare costs compared to careless handling. The organized carp angling community in the UK has developed and promoted welfare-conscious handling codes that are largely embedded in the culture of the sport. This represents a positive example of recreational fishing communities proactively addressing animal welfare concerns within their activity.