The powerful spring-action jaws in this tool grip fish securely. The non-slip foam handle and lanyard ensure a positive grip. Extremely lightweight, the 12" model weighs less than 11 ounces and includes a built-in measuring tape. The all-new digital model accurately displays weights up to 30 pounds, is fully water-resistant and shuts off automatically to preserve the 9-volt battery (not included). Grip swivels independently. Available:
This is a very good tool for handling live fish. You simply pull back on the t-grip and the tongs open up, then you place the tongs in the inside tip of the fish's lower jaw and release the t-grip. The tongs close tightly on the fish's jaw, and you can then hold him straight up, unhook him, pull down the retractable measuring tape along his side, and drop him into the water or the ice chest depending on his length. I don't think it injures the fish very much, if at all, but the fish usually don't flop much when they are suspended from the tool. This tool helps a lot in the hook removal process. Mine has held up quite well for 3 years now, and I usually fish salt marsh areas. The tape is getting a little rusty, but it still retracts smoothly and is still legible. I have never had a fish get away while I was measuring him when using this tool. The only problem with the tool is that sometimes fish are reluctant to open their mouths.
3rd or 4th time on the water. The gripper started to stick while being used in pristine waters, then the scale stopped weighing fish...it would not move off zero, even after resetting by removing the battery twice!
I used the Berkley Big Game Lip Grip with Digital Scale a few weeks ago on my annual trip to Canada. It worked flawlessly and was a key asset in our boat when we hooked into big Northern's and Walleye. You just have to remember to reset the weight before gripping the fish... it consistantly held 10+ lb fish with no problems. This is a wonderful tool to weigh your fish and also hold them so no slime gets on the floor of your boat.... therefore eliminating the black flies before they start!!!!!