Cull tags

Cull tags are a crucial tool in tournament fishing, used to track and manage multiple fish in a livewell during events where only a set number of the largest fish can be weighed. These tags help anglers quickly identify and “cull” (remove) their smallest fish in favor of larger ones, saving time and reducing stress on the catch.

What Are Cull Tags?

They are colored or numbered markers that attach to fish, typically by the jaw, using a clip or piercing system. They float in the livewell and allow quick identification of each fish. Most tournament rules permit anglers to keep up to 5 fish in a livewell — cull tags let you label them and swap out the smallest fish when a bigger one is caught.

1. Non-Piercing Cull Tags (Fish-Friendly)

• Use grip-style clamps or clips to attach to the fish’s lower lip

• Prevent permanent injury to the fish

• Required in many tournaments for fish conservation

• Example: Ardent Smart Cull, TH Marine G-Force Conservation Cull

2. Piercing Cull Tags

• Use a small metal or plastic spike that goes through the fish’s lip

• Less common now due to increased focus on catch-and-release ethics

• Offer a secure hold but can harm the fish if not used properly

 Features & Innovations

• ✅ Floating Grips – Keeps tag tops above water for quick access

• ✅ Color & Number Systems – Prevent confusion when checking fish

• ✅ Built-In Scales – Some systems include integrated weight markers

• ✅ Rust-Free Materials – Marine-grade plastics and stainless steel parts for durability

• ✅ Quick-Release Mechanisms – Makes attaching and removing tags stress-free for the fish

How to Use Cull Tags in a Tournament

1. Catch a Fish: Once it meets minimum size, tag it with an unused color/number.

2. Place in Livewell: Float the tag to keep it visible.

3. Track Weight/Size: Use a digital scale, balance beam, or memory board.

4. Catch a Bigger Fish?: Identify the smallest tagged fish.

5. Cull: Gently release the smallest fish and replace the tag onto the new one.

Maintenance & Best Practices

• Rinse tags after every trip to avoid corrosion or mold

• Store in a ventilated cull tag holder or mesh bag

• Avoid pulling or yanking tags to prevent lip damage

• Use non-piercing options whenever possible for fish safety

Popular Cull Tag Systems

✅ Why Use Cull Tags?

• ⚖️ Efficient Fish Management: Helps manage your limit during a tournament

• ⏱️ Saves Time: Quickly identify smallest fish instead of re-weighing them all

• 🐟 Reduces Fish Stress: Less handling equals healthier livewell fish

• 🏆 Tournament Compliant: Many events now require non-piercing tags

 Summary

Cull tags are a must-have for competitive bass anglers who need to quickly and ethically manage their livewell catch. With fish health, speed, and precision in mind, a good set of non-piercing, floatable, color-coded cull tags ensures you’re always ready to upgrade your bag when that tournament-winning catch bites. where to buy fish culling tags online.