Transferring a Peco to a new tank

Question
I have had a pleco for a few years and have upgraded tanks as he grew, I have set up a new 70 gallon aquarium and it is now ready to transfer him to it, my question is what is the best way to "catch" him without hurting him, he is about 15 inches long now and using a net would get his spiney fins "stuck".  Do you have any suggestions?
Thank you

Answer
Hi Angelia,
That will be a tricky one. But I feel the best way to move him would be to first drain the water down to a very low level to make catching him easier, then taking a towel that has been well rinsed ahead of time and putting that completely over the pleco. Then grabbing him up snugly but gently with the towel and transfering him over to a large container with tank water in it. Then taking that container (another person to help would be needed)to the new tank and releasing him into the bigger tank or if that's not possible, using the towel again to move him.

Plecos fortunately have tough armor as you know so he probably won't be too damaged, just a bit scared. He should be fine with this method though.

Best of luck with the big guy! He'll love his new home!
Karen~