THE SACAS CODE OF CONDUCT:

In an effort to ensure the long term integrity of South African Carp Angling Solutions (SACAS) subscribers are required to sign and agree to abide by the South African Carp Angling Solutions Code of Conduct.

Implementing the South African Carp Angling Solutions Code of Conduct across the board also is the first step to promote the universal adoption of a responsible code of conduct for all carp anglers in South Africa. This is one of the objectives of South African Carp Angling Solutions.

Please note that the contents of the Code of Conduct will change from time to time, so please be sure to visit the site regularly to be familiarize yourself with the latest version of the South African Carp Angling Solutions Code of Conduct.

Upon submitting your application for Subscriber please ensure that you have read the Code of Conduct. Your application will not be considered if you do agreed to the South African Carp Angling Solutions Code of Conduct.

CARP CARE:

1. Subscribers must practice and promote carp care at all times.
2. Each subscriber must have available and use the following carp care equipment:

a. A carp-friendly landing net with soft fine mesh knotless netting. (Large ones preferred).
b. All anglers must carry and use a good quality unhooking mat with sides meeting the requirements for size (1.2m x 0.8m x 40mm)
c. A good quality weigh sling or bag, strong enough to hold large fish.
d. A disgorger and/or forceps to remove hooks that are difficult to remove.
e. Anti-bacterial solution suitable for treating hook holds and other wounds on the fish.

3. The use of keepnets are NOT allowed.
4. All Carp MUST be released unless sick or injured to the extend of no recovery in near future.
5. Always use an unhooking mat spread out on a flat surface. An unhooking mat on an uneven or sloped surface could cause the fish to slide off the unhooking mat causing injuries to the fish.
6. The unhooking mat and weigh sling must be freshly wet before the fish is lifted from the water. The fish must be kept wet at all times. Keep a container with fresh cool water at hand at all times to wet the fish on the mat.
7. Never leave a carp on the unhooking mat unattended.
8. Remove your watch or any other piece of equipment / clothing that could injure the fish, before handling the fish.
9. The carp should not be kept out of the water for an excessive period of time. Unhook, photograph and return the fish within the shortest period of time.
10. Always have the unhooking mat directly below the carp when lifting it for a photograph. Support the carp properly, keep the carp as close as possible to the unhooking mat, and never stand up with the carp in your hands when taking photos. If the carp is dropped at this height it could sustain fatal internal injuries!
11. Always transfer the carp back to the water in a sling or enclosed mat.
12. Never drop or throw carp back into the water!
13. When releasing a carp, support it carefully in the water until it is strong enough to swim off by itself.
14. Always use carp safe rigs that puts the carp’s safety first, especially in the event of a break-off.
15. Only 1 hook per rod must be used.
16. Only anti-tangle tubing or leadcore must be used to prevent line from picking up the fish’s scales during the fight.
17. Your tackle must be up to standard and must be sufficient to land large carp safely.
18. Sacking of carp is not recommended. With today’s camera technology it is not necessary to sack a carp.
19. Never leave your rods unattended at any time.
20. Particles to be used for angling must always be prepared correctly (soaking & boiling) before it is used.

SUBSCRIBER CONDUCT:

1. All Subscribers must conduct themselves in a sportsman-like manner and observe good angling etiquette. Always show consideration towards other anglers and water users. Respect other anglers by minimising bankside noise, shouting and using bad language, shining bright lights on the water, and avoid angling in a way which interferes with other water users. Do not cast across swims, preventing other people from using swims next to you.
Park your car considerately.
2. Be aware of any specific rules relating to the lake/dam or resort you are visiting. Observe and abide by them.
3. Do not damage the property of the resort / venue that you are angling. The SA Carp Society will not be held liable for damages.
4. Theft of any kind will not be tolerated.
5. Alcohol abuse will not be tolerated.
6. A life-jacket must be worn at all times when using a boat. Safety first!
7. Uphold the image of the SA Carp Society by always keeping your swim / angling area clean, and clean up afterwards before leaving. Dispose of your refuse in provided rubbish bins, or otherwise take it with you when you leave.
8. Subscribers must always be polite and helpful towards other anglers / members.

ENVIRONMENTAL CARE:

1. Do not litter or discard tackle on the bank. Discarded line is hazardous to wildlife. Discarded hooks are hazardous to humans and wildlife.
2. Discarded line should be burnt or cut into short lengths before disposal to avoid entangling wildlife at waste bins.
3. When your fish or line is snagged up, make use of a boat or any other safe means to un-snag and retrieve your fish / line. “Pulling for a break” from the bank should be your last option.
4. Respect the environment and minimize disruption to waterside wildlife.
5. Light fires only in designated braai areas or in portable braais. NO open fires (on the ground) are allowed. Bring your own firewood.
6. Lakeside vegetation and trees should not be damaged.
7. Wound in rods must not be left unattended without the hook bait being removed. These food items could be picked up by birds or animals.
8. An angler must adapt and fit into the surrounding environment, not dominate it.
9. The toilets provided must be used at all times.
At venues where toilets are not provided, anglers must carry and always use a trowel or suitable trenching tool..

 

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