Once you have landed that big carp you have spent months targeting, you want to see how much the fish weighs in at, as accurately as possible.
A new PB could come down to ounces and so your carp fishing scales must be accurate.
Features of the best carp fishing scales
Well, let's start with the obvious one, accuracy. The carp fishing scales must be as accurate as possible to ensure you get the most precise weight of the carp you have landed. You could have captured a carp of a lifetime and you want to get the exact weight of the fish, a new PB could come down to ounces.
Maximum weight of the carp fishing scales. You can purchase carp fishing scales that record anything from 20lbs right up to 120lb with 2oz to 4oz increments.
If you are fishing in the UK, the carp fishing scales that cater to weight up to 60lbs would cover the majority of fish that can be caught. If you are carp fishing in France, for example, you will be targeting fish that can easily push the 60lb mark and so the 120lb set would make more sense. Let's take a venue such as Gigantica, owned by carp fishing legend Danny Fairbrass, this venue has multiple fish over 60lbs, 70lbs and even 80lbs meaning the bigger carp fishing scales are a must.
Cost, like any piece of carp fishing equipment, can range dramatically. Carp fishing scales can be purchased for under £20 and well over £60. There are multiple great quality carp fishing scales available, all of which we will recommend and discuss in more detail later in the article.
Aesthetics are important for many carp anglers, I will include myself in that bracket. Some carp equipment has been designed to be aesthetically pleasing which usually comes with an inflated price.
Digital or Analogue, self-explanatory really with some anglers having a preference over the other.
What type of batteries do the carp fishing scales require and are they provided?
Of course, analogue scales will never require batteries which is a big plus, there is nothing worse than running out of power when you are out on a carp fishing session.
Ergonomics are very important with carp fishing scales.
How easy are the scales to pick up when trying to weight a big carp?
How easy is the display or pointer needle to read in low-light conditions?
Reliability, carp fishing scales tend to end up on the floor and often get wet and covered in mud or dirt. You want to ensure the carp fishing scales are rugged and will last for many years.
Let's not waste any more time. Check out our recommendations for best carp fishing scales.
Korda Reuben Heaton 60lb scales
If you prefer an analogue dial, these Korda-branded Reuben Heaton scales are worth a look. A clear dial and a steady weighing setup matter more than making the process complicated.
Before you buy: This listing is the 60lb version. The wet sling and fish must both fit within the capacity. Zero the scales with the wet sling first.
View Korda Reuben Heaton 60lb scales on Amazon (paid link)
NGT XPR digital T-bar scales
The NGT XPR offers a digital display and T-bar layout. It is a useful option to compare if you prefer reading numbers to a dial.
Before you buy: Check the capacity, batteries and supplied accessories. Support a suitable wet weigh sling correctly; never attach the scale hook directly to a fish.
View NGT XPR digital T-bar scales on Amazon (paid link)
Wychwood T-bar MKII 60lb scales
The Wychwood MKII is another T-bar option to compare with the NGT. Think about how easy the controls and display will be to use with wet hands and in low light.
Before you buy: Check the 60lb model, battery requirements and units. Recheck zero with the wet sling rather than subtracting a guessed sling weight afterwards.
View Wychwood T-bar MKII 60lb scales on Amazon (paid link)
Fox digital scales 60kg
For anglers who need a higher capacity, the Fox digital scales give you another option. Do not buy solely for the maximum number: accurate zeroing and a safe, steady lift are still the important parts.
Before you buy: This listing is the 60kg model with case. Make sure your sling and weighing support are suitable too, and keep the fish low over a protective mat.
View Fox digital scales 60kg on Amazon (paid link)
Which one should you choose?
Start with the water you fish and the kit you already own. You do not need the most expensive option, but you do need the right size and specification. Check the selected model, what is included and the delivery total before ordering. If you are unsure, a local tackle shop can help you compare the options.
