Unhooking Mats

Browse unhooking mats here, from light fold-away mats to walled and inflatable carp mats, each one price-checked across reputable online tackle shops so you can see who is selling it cheapest right now. The brand and price filters narrow the list down in a few clicks.

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The grid shows every unhooking mat we list, from small roll-up mats that clip to a bag to big padded mats for catfish and walled mats for carp.

For each one you can see the lowest live price and how many reputable online tackle shops have it in stock.

Sort by review score to put the best-rated mats at the top before you compare prices.

38 products in this category
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How to Choose an Unhooking Mat

Unhooking mats come in four broad styles. Flat and fold-away mats are the lightest, roll-up mats pack small and often clip to a bag, walled mats add padded sides, and inflatable mats use air-filled walls that let down to pack away.

Protection comes first, so thicker, even padding cushions the fish on hard or uneven ground, and walls or a raised edge stop a lively fish rolling off. A cover that fastens over the top keeps the fish dark and calm while the hook comes out and the camera is sorted.

Size matters just as much. The fish should lie flat without its head or tail hanging over the edge, so carp anglers usually look for a mat around a metre long or more, while catfish need far more room and smaller mats suit F1s, tench and bream.

Weight and packed size decide how easy a mat is to carry. A big walled mat is no problem from a barrow, but a long walk to the swim favours a light roll-up or fold-away mat that straps to a rucksack.

Unhooking Mat Prices and Reviews

There are 38 unhooking mats on this page, with 12 carrying a full eTackle review. Every product shows its lowest live price and the number of reputable online tackle shops we found it in stock at.

Our reviews score each mat on build quality, protection, ease of setup and portability, and value for money. To see how the different styles compare and which suits your fishing, read our guide to the best unhooking mats.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a flat mat and a walled mat?

A flat mat is a padded surface the fish lies on, while a walled mat adds padded or inflatable sides that hold the fish in place. Walls give more protection for larger, livelier fish.

Should I wet an unhooking mat before using it?

Yes. Wetting the mat before the fish goes on it cools the surface on warm days and helps protect the fish's slime coat.

What size unhooking mat do I need?

The fish should lie flat without its head or tail over the edge. Around a metre long or more suits most carp, catfish need a much larger mat, and smaller mats are fine for F1s, tench and bream.

Are inflatable unhooking mats worth it?

Inflatable walls give a soft, high barrier around the fish and let down to pack small. The trade-off is pumping them up and letting them down each session.

What is a roll-up unhooking mat?

A roll-up mat rolls into a compact bundle, usually held with straps or elasticated loops, and many clip onto a rucksack or bag. It suits anglers who move swims or travel light.

How do I clean an unhooking mat?

Rinse it with clean water after use to remove slime and grit, then let it dry fully before storing it for long. Wipe-clean surfaces make this quicker.