Measuring Mat

[Mangi]

After the last thread regarding the measuring mats, I though it would be a good idea to put up a little tutorial of how I made mine.

There are many different ways to do it, this is just my method.

We are all part of a public fishing forum and therefore many people will look at the way we handle fish.  When it comes to catch and release, we all know that the least amount of direct contact with your fish will ensure a better survival rate.  This is where these mats come in handy.  You throw a bit of water on it, place the fish ontop, measure, and release.  All with minimum contact.

What you will need:

Tarpaulin (Tarp) - Size: 75cm x 60cm

Dowels - 2 x 75cm

Chipboard Nails

Hamer

Contact Glue

Rapid Epoxy (Optional)

Measuring Tape - 1.5m

Aluminium Flat Bar - 80cm in Lenght

 

[Mangi]

Using the Contact Glue, glue the dowels to the ends of the tarp.  It will make it easier to roll later.

 

[Mangi]

After the dowles are glued down, roll the tarp over the dowel about four times.

Now take the chipboard nails and knock a few in the lock it into place.  I like doing this as it makes the mat even stronger for carrying your catch back to the water.

 

 

[Mangi]

Next you take your flat bar (80cm) and bend the first 5cm so that it forms a 90 degree angle.

You push the fishes snout against the flatbar and measure away.

 

[Mangi]

Now glue the flatbar and mat where it will fit on the underside of the mat.  Use the instructions of the Contact Glue.  Leave to dry for 15minutes and then glue it in place.

 

[Mangi]

Using a knife, carpet knife, scissors to cut out handles in the tarp.

 

[Mangi]

Once again, using the glue, attach the measuring tape ensuring it sits flush with the flatbar.

 

[Mangi]

Once in place, I put a little bit of Epoxy over the tip of the measuring tape as it usually rusts very quickly.

 

[Mangi]

And here is the finished product ready for your PB!

 

[Mangi]

@Elf 786: This is your mat sir. Now we have to organise a meet and greet so that I can give it to you!

 

[Elf 786]

Mangi wrote:

@Elf 786: This is your mat sir. Now we have to organise a meet and greet so that I can give it to you!

pm sent! have a some mana..... THANKS AGAIN

 

[shelvpower]

Very Nice tutorial I am surely going to build me one because I started tagging a few week back.

Any Idea what that Tarpaulin costs?

Thanks
Shelvpower

 

[Upcoming Star]

verrrry nice well done!

Great tut

 

[Speedmaster]

Baie goeie DIY daar.