Renowned big carp angler Darrell Peck recently achieved an astounding milestone by catching his 100th UK 40-pound carp at the spectacular Grenville Lake. Many anglers dream of catching even one 40-pound fish in the UK, making Darrell’s accomplishment of 100 truly remarkable. But how did it all begin?
Darrell Peck’s fishing career has led him to catch his 100th UK mirror carp, each over the magical 40-pound mark!
Number 100!
Celebrated big carp angler Darrell Peck recently reached the incredible milestone of landing his 100th UK 40-pound carp while filming for a Korda Vlog at the magnificent Grenville Lake. Many anglers would be ecstatic to catch just one 40-pound fish in the UK, so Darrell’s achievement of catching 100 is immensely impressive. But where did his journey start?
Darrell’s fishing accomplishments include catching various species of carp, such as the common carp and the amur carp.
Chunky
Darrell caught his first UK 40-pound carp at the historic and iconic Yately Car Park Lake, a fish known as CHUNKY, back in 2003. Sharing this moment with one of his angling heroes, Terry Hearn (Darrell is an unabashed Terry fanboy), made the capture even more memorable. Darrell’s first UK 40-pound fish was a domesticated variety of crucian carp.
Arthur and Dustbin
Following his initial success, Darrell caught multiple other 40-pound carp from the Car Park Lake, including Arthur and the Dustbin, before moving on to other lakes. Some of Darrell’s other favorite carp that have broken the 40-pound barrier include the Client and the Fat Lady. He has also caught mirror carp and leather carp throughout his fishing expeditions.
Incredible Captures
Darrell has caught many impressive fish from all over the country, and we have been fortunate to share many of those moments on our YouTube channel. Carp Fix also features an amazing catalogue of these moments, including a mix of live sessions and reflective chats back in the Carp Fix studio. Some of the carp Darrell has caught were originally bred in fish farms.
Building Up to 100
In the lead-up to reaching 100, Darrell spent some time at Grenville this spring, managing to reach number 97 before our cameras joined him for the last session of the season. Grenville is renowned for its long-range and heavy baiting style of fishing, but upon arriving, Darrell noticed the fish were all in close. Adapting to what he saw, he excelled and went on to land multiple fish, including four over the 40-pound mark, bringing his total to 101 UK forties! Darrell uses a variety of Korda fishing gear, including rods, lures, and tackle boxes.
Watch the Session
To see all the tackle and tips he used during this session, be sure to watch the film! Darrell’s fishing adventures have also included catching silver carp, which are known for their impact on natural resources. Darrell has mentioned that he will stop counting now, but we know he will continue to catch impressive fish wherever he goes next! His success is partly due to the selective breeding of carp species, which has led to the development of different forms such as leather carp and mirror carp.
Darrell’s fishing achievements are a testament to his knowledge of different fish species and his expertise in using the right fishing tackle.
Belgian carp expert Ignace de Roeck had a quick success with a new test bait, diving into the action and topping it off with a hard-fighting forty-pounder. It was around mid-May when I finally packed my van to leave my hectic life behind. March and April had been very fruitful for fishing, even though they were just a few day sessions. I can say I was pleasantly surprised several times. Usually, I only fish this syndicate water during the colder months. This time, I aimed to target the carp a bit later, hoping to catch them at their maximum weight, considering the water’s shallowness and early spawning. However, after catching the top fish, the plan more than succeeded. Now it’s time for a new adventure, aiming for a water body that poses a real challenge.
This takes me back to that memorable afternoon in mid-May, driving down the highway towards the Integra syndicate. I finally found a few days to go fishing and i had packed my secret test bait. As always, spring is unpredictable, and this year was no different. It seemed nature wasn’t ready to let go of the dark, chilly days. Long periods of rain and barely 15 degrees marked the beginning of spring, which doesn’t make a fisherman happy. During May, the turning point seemed imminent, but it wasn’t the case. We were gripped by a high-pressure area for a long time, with persistent north/east winds. The only favorable thing was that temperatures occasionally broke the 20-degree mark. Fellow anglers’ catch reports were dismal, with many noting a blank. If this continued, the carp would soon move on to their annual spawning ritual. The week before my session, the first fish were already being spotted and caught in the lake’s shallower parts. They weren’t the small ones; the first good fish from the lake had appeared. This was exceptional and indicated what was to come next. As I neared the lake, the tension rose, wondering if my preferred spot was free. But first, I had to stop at Residence Lagaert to pick up a fresh batch of new test baits. I’d been curious about them for some time, and the first impression was promising.
Upon arriving at the chosen swim, everything felt more relaxed. Two rods were equipped with the new test bait, and two with sweetcorn pop-ups.
The traps were set, both deep and shallow. At least, that was the starting plan. What struck me immediately was that the water temperature wasn’t very inviting. Even the water-skiing activity was minimal. Only the true die-hards braved the cold water. The evening and night passed in a blink, with no sign of life. At dawn, I dragged myself out of the sleeping bag, hoping for a clue. Just as I finished my last sip of caffeine, I spotted exactly what I wanted to see. It was something, and I had to act on it. I quickly reeled in one of the rods and dropped it near the jumping fish. Three counts and a donk on the rod tip. This should suffice. The new test bait was deployed.
A few hours later, the first bite came. It wasn’t the last moved rod but one in shallow water. A male mirror carp of about 10 kilos slid into the landing net. On the unhooking mat, the carp excreted milt, indicating spawning behavior. This wouldn’t last for days; soon, they’d start chasing each other. As I released the small fish, the last moved rod screamed with a monotone sound. Once I picked up the rod, there was no stopping them. They were full of adrenaline. Eventually, number two was landed. The new test bait had passed its first test. A common carp with a beautiful scale pattern. The lake was full of surprises, just how I liked it. Meanwhile, the sun was trying its best again. Despite the strong northern wind, it didn’t feel too warm, but it was pleasantly warm behind the bushes. The afternoon passed, and just as I was on the phone with Wes, our conversation was interrupted by a full-throttle take. This fish was unstoppable. Meters of line flew off the spool like nothing. This was a different caliber. When they swerved extreme left or right without gaining a single meter of line, it could only mean one thing. These were the ones we were here for. This couldn’t go wrong. After many attempts to escape, the battle finally ended. Once the carp was safely in the landing net, I saw it immediately. The big leather carp was mine again. A recapture from a few years ago, caught in Wes’s garden swim, late autumn. I unhooked the fish and let it rest in the landing net. I quickly called Wes, asking him to come over and assist. The scale stopped at 22.2 kg. The carp in question was a perfect leather carp, rarely seen in our waters anymore. Its tail looked a bit “crooked,” but it seemed to have had it all its life. Nevertheless, it was a massive carp. Soon it regained its freedom, and we treated ourselves to a good, fresh beer.
This would be the last highlight of the session. The next morning, from my spot, I saw a lot of movement in the shallow zone. I needed to inspect this more closely. Upon arrival, it became clear. There were lots of carp here. Once among the fish, I experienced something unique. They were everywhere. Small, big, commons, and mirrors swam past, between, and against my legs. Nothing stopped them anymore; this was going to happen. One thing stood out: the water was incredibly warm compared to the swim further away. This must be due to the shallow zone being in the lee for several weeks. The sun had been doing its utmost to warm it up. This could almost be the only explanation for why they started spawning so early here. That this happened so early was exceptional. In the end, they could complete their annual needs without interruption, benefiting them greatly. From now on, they could return to their normal activities, playing hide and seek.
Get Solar Tackle Products now at Big Carp Tackle Store:
Korda is thrilled to introduce several innovative products designed for carp anglers. Each item has undergone extensive development and testing to ensure top-notch quality and performance.
Korda Latest Featured Products:
Compac Retainer Sling
Description: Meticulously developed and tested for over four years, the Compac Retainer Sling prioritizes fish safety. Perfect for handling Europe’s largest carp.
Description: The ultimate fish care solution, combining advanced design and premium materials for maximum carp protection.
Features: 70mm thick medium density foam pad, perimeter cushion of beans for stability.
Korda Compac Rucksack 30L
Description: A compact yet spacious 30L rucksack designed to integrate seamlessly with Compac EVA cases and the Tackle Storage range.
Features: Side pockets for EVA pouches, front compartment for Korda Tackle Box, external loops for banksticks and alarms, interior sleeve for Large Korda Rig Case.
PVA Kontainer System
Description: A modular 10L bucket system designed for organized storage of pellets, powders, bags, and other essentials, keeping everything safe and accessible.
Korda Compac Boilie Caddy
Description: A practical solution for holding up to 2.5kg of boilies, perfect for use with a throwing stick or catapult.
The medium shank and wide-gape Target Barbel Hooks have garnered a stellar reputation among the best Barbel and specimen anglers in the country, proving their effectiveness time and time again. Designed for ultimate performance, these hooks are not only perfect for Barbel but also excel in targeting other specimen fish such as Chub, Tench, and Bream.
Target Barbel Hooks Features and Benefits
Design and Hook Hold:
The hTarget Barbel Hooks feature a 5° in-turned eye and a beaked point, creating exceptional hook holds. This design ensures a secure catch and minimizes the chance of the hook being dislodged.
The beaked point is advantageous when fishing over large stones or gravel, as it is less likely to be turned over or damaged, maintaining its sharpness and effectiveness.
Strength and Durability:
Constructed from extra strong forged, double tempered, high carbon steel, these hooks are built to withstand the fight of the largest Barbel.
The robust construction ensures that the hooks can cope with the strength and weight of big fish, providing reliability and confidence to anglers.
Coating and Sharpness:
The hooks possess a matt, anti-glare coating, reducing visibility underwater and increasing the chances of a successful catch.
The razor-sharp point guarantees efficient penetration and a solid hook hold, crucial for successful specimen fishing.
Availability
Target Barbel hooks are available in sizes 8 and 10, catering to different angling needs and preferences. They come in barbed only, providing a secure hold once the fish is hooked.
Target Barbel Hooks are a top choice for serious anglers looking to target Barbel and other specimen fish. Their thoughtful design, exceptional strength, and sharpness make them an indispensable tool in any angler’s tackle box.
Get Target Barbel Hooks now at Big Carp Tackle Store:
On a recent fishing trip to Holme Fenn, Naomi Turner Record Carp was achieved and represents an extraordinary milestone. Catching the biggest carp ever recorded by a female angler in the UK. Weighing in at 72lb 12oz (nearly 33kg), this monumental catch has earned her a place in the angling history books.
The Journey to Success to the Naomi Turner Record Carp Catch
Naomi’s fishing trip had a challenging start, but her decision to move to deeper waters on the final night of her expedition proved to be the turning point. She settled at a swim known as Harry’s, located at the end of the wind, where she observed fish activity, indicating a promising spot. Opting for a stealthy approach, Naomi set up her gear, hoping to secure a bite.
The Moment of Triumph
Just a few hours later, Naomi’s left-hand rod signaled a slow take. Upon hooking the fish, it initially became entangled in a weedbed. However, with steady pressure and patience, she managed to free the fish and guide it through the deep water, utilizing its weight to its full advantage. The realization of the size and significance of her catch dawned on her when the fish was safely in her landing net.
Naomi Turner Record Carp: A New Record
The massive common carp, known locally as “Pashley,” is the largest known resident of the lake and Naomi’s personal best (PB). Her catch, weighing 72lb 12oz, stands as the largest carp caught by a female angler in the UK, marking a moment of euphoria and excitement that she described as unforgettable.
The Gear Behind the Glory
Naomi’s success was underpinned by her choice of high-quality fishing gear. She used Korda Spinner Rigs with 25lb boom and Korda Size 4 Kamakura Wide Gape X Hooks. These rigs, presented on a small hump surrounded by weed with minimal bait, were crucial in her achievement. Additionally, her use of bite alarms ensured she didn’t miss any activity, maximizing her chances of landing the giant carp.
Congratulations, Naomi!
Naomi Turner’s remarkable catch at Holme Fenn is a testament to her skill, patience, and dedication to the sport of carp fishing. Her record-breaking achievement is an inspiration to anglers everywhere.
Spring is a prime season for carp fishing in U.S. lakes, as the warming water temperatures signal increased carp activity. To make the most of this season, anglers need to understand carp behavior, choose the right gear, and apply effective techniques. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you achieve the best spring carp fishing experience.
Understanding Carp Behavior in Spring
As temperatures rise in the spring, carp become more active and start feeding aggressively to replenish energy after winter. They tend to move into shallower waters where the sun warms the water faster, making these areas prime fishing spots. Key behavioral patterns to consider include:
Feeding Habits: Carp feed heavily on natural food sources such as insects, larvae, and aquatic plants. They are more likely to be found in areas with abundant food.
Spawning Season: In late spring, carp begin to spawn. During this period, they gather in shallow, warm areas with plenty of vegetation. This can be both a challenging and rewarding time to fish, as carp are more active but can be harder to entice with bait.
Water Temperature: Carp are most active when water temperatures range between 55°F and 75°F. Monitoring water temperature can help you predict carp activity levels.
Choosing the Right Gear
Having the right gear is crucial for a successful carp fishing session. Here are the essentials:
Rods and Reels: A medium to heavy action rod (9-12 feet) paired with a robust reel is ideal. Ensure your reel has a good drag system to handle the powerful runs of carp.
Fishing Line: Use a strong monofilament or braided line, typically between 12-20 lb test. Braided lines offer more sensitivity and strength, which is useful when fishing in weedy or snag-filled areas.
Hooks and Rigs: Carp have a strong sense of smell and are cautious feeders. Hair rigs with size 6 to 10 hooks are effective. The hair rig allows the bait to sit naturally, increasing the chances of a bite.
Bait: Corn, boilies, and dough balls are popular carp baits. Flavored and brightly colored baits can be particularly effective in attracting carp. Experiment with different flavors like strawberry, scopex, or pineapple.
Effective Fishing Techniques
Adopting the right techniques can significantly enhance your chances of success:
Pre-baiting: Pre-baiting involves scattering bait in your chosen fishing area a day or two before you fish. This attracts carp and encourages them to feed in that spot.
Chumming: Similar to pre-baiting, chumming involves throwing bait into the water to attract carp while you are fishing. This can keep carp in your area and increase your chances of a catch.
Stealth and Patience: Carp are easily spooked. Approach your fishing spot quietly and avoid unnecessary movements. Patience is key in carp fishing, as it can take time for carp to find and take your bait.
Using PVA Bags: PVA (polyvinyl alcohol) bags dissolve in water, releasing bait around your hook. This method ensures that bait is concentrated around your hook, making it more attractive to carp.
Top U.S. Lakes for Spring Carp Fishing
Several U.S. lakes are renowned for their excellent carp fishing opportunities. Some top spots include:
Lake Michigan (Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin): Known for its large carp, Lake Michigan offers numerous hotspots along its shoreline.
Clear Lake (California): This large, shallow lake warms up quickly in spring, providing ideal conditions for carp fishing.
Lake Champlain (New York/Vermont): With abundant food sources and shallow bays, Lake Champlain is a carp angler’s paradise.
Potomac River (Maryland/Virginia): The tidal sections of the Potomac River are known for their healthy carp populations.
Santee Cooper Lakes (South Carolina): Comprising Lake Marion and Lake Moultrie, these lakes offer excellent spring carp fishing opportunities.
Final Tips for Spring Carp Fishing
Local Regulations: Always check local fishing regulations regarding carp fishing, including any restrictions on bait and methods.
Weather Conditions: Pay attention to weather forecasts. Carp are more active during stable, warm weather.
Network with Locals: Engage with local anglers or join carp fishing forums to get insights on the best spots and techniques specific to your chosen lake.
By understanding carp behavior, choosing the right gear, and applying effective techniques, you can make the most of your spring carp fishing adventures in U.S. lakes. Happy fishing!
In the latest winter fishing Korda Vlog, Jonny Old and Oscar Thornton head to the scenic Milton Abbas Estate in Dorset for an epic winter carp session. The vlog showcases the duo taking advantage of unseasonably warm temperatures and a significant weather front, which triggers an exceptional feeding spree among the carp.
Over a 24-hour period, Jonny and Oscar demonstrate their expert angling skills by targeting clear channels amidst dense weed using match the hatch wafters. Their strategy involves heavy baiting with Mainline Cell, which proves highly effective as they catch some of the finest carp in Milton Abbas.
The vlog captures the essence of fishing camaraderie, with Jonny and Oscar enjoying each other’s company and the thrill of the sport. It’s a quintessential fishing film that highlights the joy and excitement of a successful winter fishing expedition.
An in-depth look at our full range of plastic hook baits (fake food bait) and what makes them so effective. The use of plastic hookbaits has had a big impact on carp fishing and are now commonly used by many anglers who want a durable bait with some buoyancy to it.
The Fake Food range from Korda started out with just plastic sweetcorn, which came in several different flavour and colour versions, and has since grown to include artificial maize and dumbells as well.
To complete the range a slow sinking match-the-hatch imitation boilie has been added, and we teamed up with Mainline so that they match the freezer and ready-made baits that they produce. Not only do they match the colour of the real Cell, Essential Cell, and Link boilies, but are also impregnated with the same flavour /attractor, and come in a choice of 15mm or 18mm sizes. So you now have the choice of using either an artificial bait that is bright and stands out, or one that is more subtle and matches your freebies.
These baits can either be fished on their own, such as a single piece of maize in a Solidz PVA bag, or as a topper to add a bit of colour to a real boilie, and which is where the artificial corn is especially popular.
All of these artificial baits come in a choice of pop-up or slow-sinking versions, with the buoyancy determined by an air pocket within the bait, and which means that the buoyancy of it will remain unchanged even once it has been in the water for a prolonged period of time – you could leave it in the water for days and know that it will still be popped up, or will slowly sink in the same way that it did when you first tied the rig and tested it in the margins.
Variety of fake food bait
Aside from that consistent buoyancy, the main advantage with a plastic version of these baits is that they are pretty much immune to the attentions of nuisance species such as crayfish or smaller fish species, which could remove real corn from your rig very quickly in some waters. So, if you do want to fish with smaller baits like a couple of grains of corn or a grain of maize, or even a small dumbbell, then you can do so without having to worry that other species, such as roach, have eaten or damaged your hookbait without giving you any indication.
The durable rubber which these baits are made from ensures that they are able to stand up to the attentions of species such as crayfish, or poisson chat if you’re fishing in Europe, without any damage being done to them, as long as the bait is secured to the rig in a way where it can’t come off – all of the baits in the range are supplied with hair stops in a matching colour, but if crayfish are an issue you will need to secure them in a way where the hair stop can’t easily be removed, as they will still try to eat the rubber hookbait.
During the manufacturing process, the flavour – and colour – are added to the plastic before it is moulded, and this means that it retains its smell for far longer than baits that have just been soaked in flavour, although you can of course do that as well to give it a boost.
These baits are compatible with pretty much any rig or set-up, whether you’re looking to add a fleck of colour to a snowman type presentation; using a small, buoyant but durable hookbait inside a PVA bag; or are looking to imitate a pop-up on a spinner rig on a crayfish infested venue; there are loads of different uses for the range.
So, whatever you’re looking for in a rubber bait, you’ll find the perfect size, colour, level of buoyancy, and flavour within this range.
Pop-Up Corn
This has proven to be a phenomenal fish catcher over the years since it became the first product in the Fake Food range, and replicates a real grain of corn in terms of its size.
This version has a pocket of air inside that gives it the buoyancy needed to pop up most rigs – especially if two pieces are used and comes in a variety of flavours and colours.
pop up corn
In addition to the original yellow coloured IB flavour, which has always been a big favourite, that same flavour is now also available in bright pink, which has proven to make a big difference to catch rates on some venues at certain times of the year, when it outfishes other colours. There is also a Citrus Zing flavour which now comes in orange (as opposed to the green colour it was previously available in), a pink coloured Fruity Squid variety, and Banoffee in white.
Each packet contains 12 pieces of pop-up corn plus free hair stops in a matching colour.
Slow Sinking Corn
The slow sinking version of the corn is great for situations when you want to be fishing a bait touching the lakebed, but want it to still have some buoyancy so that it is easily sucked in by a feeding carp.
It still has more buoyancy than using real sweetcorn, plus it has all the advantages that come with being made from plastic and being immune to the attentions of nuisance species, plus the buoyancy won’t alter when it has been in the water for a prolonged period of time.
In addition to the original yellow coloured IB flavour, which has always been a big favourite, that same flavour is now also available in bright pink, which has proven to make a big difference to catch rates on some venues at certain times of the year, when it outfishes other colours.
There is also a Citrus Zing flavour which now comes in orange (as opposed to the green colour it was previously available in), a pink coloured Fruity Squid variety, and Banoffee in white.
Each packet contains 12 pieces of slow sinking corn plus free hair stops in a matching colour.
Pop-Up Maize
Maize is one of those baits which has become popular in recent years and is used by many anglers in their spod/particle mix.
This plastic pop-up version is larger than the fake sweetcorn which we do, and reflects the size difference between a grain of sweetcorn and a piece of maize. It means that it is more buoyant, due to a larger air pocket inside, and is therefore more suited to use with larger, heavier hooks, or with rigs that contain more metalware at the hook end, such as a spinner, as it still has enough buoyancy to keep it all clear of the bottom.
In addition to the original yellow coloured IB flavour, which has always been a big favourite, that same flavour is now also available in bright pink, which has proven to make a big difference to catch rates on some venues at certain times of the year, when it outfishes other colours. There is also a Citrus Zing flavour which now comes in orange (as opposed to the green colour it was previously available in), a pink coloured Fruity Squid variety, and Banoffee in white.
Each packet contains ten pieces of pop-up maize plus free hair stops in a matching colour.
Slow Sinking Maize
Maize is one of those baits which has become popular in recent years and is used by many anglers in their spod/particle mix.
This plastic slow sinking version is larger than the fake sweetcorn which we do, and reflects the size difference between a grain of sweetcorn and a piece of maize. It means that it is more buoyant, due to a larger air pocket inside, and is therefore more suited to use with larger, heavier hooks, or with rigs that contain more metalware at the hook end, and it has enough buoyancy that everything sinks slowly and rests on the lake bed, and is easily sucked in by any feeding carp.
In addition to the original yellow coloured IB flavour, which has always been a big favourite, that same flavour is now also available in bright pink, which has proven to make a big difference to catch rates on some venues at certain times of the year, when it outfishes other colours. There is also a Citrus Zing flavour which now comes in orange (as opposed to the green colour it was previously available in), a pink coloured Fruity Squid variety, and Banoffee in white.
Each packet contains ten pieces of slow sinking maize plus free hair stops in a matching colour.
Pop-Up Dumbells
These dumbells can be fished wither on their own or in combination with real baits, such as if you want a snowman presentation.
They come in a variety of different sizes and colours to give you plenty of options when it comes to either fishing a bright hookbait which stands out, or something a bit more subtle, and they come in four different colour/flavour combinations.
fake food bait – popup dumbell
There are three different sizes in the range – 8mm, 12mm or 16mm – so that you can select the level of buoyancy that you require, as well as picking a bait size that suits the rig and hook size that you’re using it on. Each dumbbell features a special recessed slot in the end which the boilie stop fits perfectly into and helps ensure that your bait stays on even if a crayfish has a go at it. A strip of matching colour boilie stops is provided in each pack.
The Pop-Up Dumbells are available in white Banoffee; yellow IB; pink Fruity Squid; or Fishy Beige. Each pack contains ten 8mm, eight 12mm, or five 16mm baits.
These dumbells have been designed to sink slowly and are perfect for use with rigs that you would normally fish a wafter on.
They come in a variety of different sizes and colours to give you plenty of options when it comes to either fishing a bright hookbait which stands out, or something a bit more subtle, and they come in four different colour/flavour combinations.
There are three different sizes in the range – 8mm, 12mm or 16mm – so that you can select the level of buoyancy that you require, as well as picking a bait size that suits the rig and hook size that you’re using it on. Each dumbbell features a special recessed slot in the end which the boilie stop fits perfectly into and helps ensure that your bait stays on even if a crayfish has a go at it. A strip of matching colour boilie stops is provided in each pack.
The Pop-Up Dumbells are available in white Banoffee; yellow IB; pink Fruity Squid; or Fishy Beige. Each pack contains ten 8mm, eight 12mm, or five 16mm baits.
Mainline Slow-Sinking Boilie
These slow-sinking rubber boilies perfectly imitate the Mainline range of freezer and shelf-life baits, so are perfect if you want a more subtle hookbait that matches your loosefeed.
They are made from tough plastic which will withstand the attentions of nuisance species such as crayfish and you can rest assured that you will always have a bait on. They feature a recessed hair stop cavity to make sure that your stop stays in place and can’t easily be pulled off, as well as giving a neater finish.
These baits are impregnated with the same Mainline Cell, Essential Cell, and Link attractors that are used in their boilies, and are also the same colour as those, with a slightly more washed-out look, so that they perfectly match whatever you are baiting up with.
Slow sinking boilies – fake food bait
They’ve been made in a way that ensures that they sink slowly and also maintain the same buoyancy even once they’ve been in the water for a prolonged period of time, and they can be used with any of the normal rigs that you’d fish a wafter style hookbait on.
The slow-sinking boilie comes in a choice of 15mm or 18mm sizes and with nine or six in pack, depending on which size you opt for.
While the title “Take notes” may not immediately convey it, this piece delves deeper into the essence of my angling journey, focusing not just on tactics and gear, but on the enduring lessons that have shaped my success over the years. From the inception of the hair rig in the early 1980s, my voyage through the world of carp fishing has been a rollercoaster of experiences – moments of laughter, tears, triumphs, and challenges. From the ever-changing landscape of rig choices to debates over bait quantities and the shifting tides of angling trends, it’s been a journey marked by both confusion and exhilaration.
We all have our own unique perspectives that guide us along our chosen paths. However, alongside personal insights, we often find ourselves influenced by prevailing fashions and trends. Yet, amidst this sea of external influences, it’s vital to retain the ability to think independently and acknowledge our own successes and failures. As I embark on my fifth decade of carp angling, I’m reminded of the wealth of experiences that have shaped my journey. While these experiences may not qualify me as an infallible expert, they have certainly provided valuable insights that I’m eager to share with the next generation of anglers.
So, while I may not have all the answers to the myriad challenges we encounter on the bank, I do possess a wealth of knowledge gained through years of trial and error. And it’s this wisdom that I hope to pass on, regardless of whether it’s to the young or the old, ensuring that the legacy of our angling traditions continues to thrive.
TAKE NOTES!
Throughout my journey, one invaluable lesson stands out above all: the importance of personal discovery. While the angling community is full of well-meaning advice, there’s also the occasional misguided soul looking to throw you off course. It’s essential to listen, absorb, but ultimately trust your own judgment. Over the years, I’ve made my fair share of mistakes following others blindly. However, I’ve always found solace in what my eyes reveal. Observation is the bedrock of my approach, guiding every decision I make on the water.
In our ever-evolving pursuit, tactics and baiting strategies come and go. What remains constant is our ability to adapt, to read the signs nature presents us with. The true essence of carp angling lies in our connection to the environment, to the subtle cues provided by the fish and the weather. In this sense, the eyes truly are our most valuable tool, allowing us to navigate the complexities of the sport with clarity and precision.
YOUR EYES ARE YOUR GREATEST ASSET IN ANGLING.
Above all your gear – hooks, rigs, or line – your eyes are paramount. While polarized glasses can enhance your visibility, especially for close-quarters carp spotting, it’s often the distant vistas that provide the clearest picture. Observing carp behavior is key to successful angling. Whether it’s their movements in specific areas or the telltale signs like bubbles and mud clouds, every observation adds to your knowledge base.
However, the accessibility of modern waters has shifted the angling landscape. Carp have become more abundant and easier to catch, leading to crowded fisheries. Finding a swim, let alone one with carp, can be a challenge, particularly during peak seasons. Many blame their tackle for their misfortune, overlooking the larger issue. Despite the frustrations, embracing these conditions can be a valuable learning experience. Understanding the water, where carp are caught, what baits work, and the preferred areas and swims of successful anglers, is essential for navigating these modern challenges.
PUTTING THOUGHTS TO PAPER: TAKE NOTES
My trusty notebook has been a constant companion in my angling endeavors, serving as my personal carp fishing archive. Every capture, every detail noted down – from others’ successes to the weather conditions and the number of anglers present. These entries, meticulously recorded over many years, form a rich tapestry of angling experiences.
The value of this information extends beyond the immediate session. I often find myself revisiting past entries, mining them for insights and strategies. Sometimes, it leads to instant success; other times, it serves as a guiding light for future outings. Each notebook, brimming with maps and swim details, is a testament to my dedication to the craft.
While technology offers tempting shortcuts, I remain steadfast in my reliance on pen and paper. There’s something inherently satisfying about the act of writing, a process that cements knowledge and sparks inspiration. And when a prized catch like the 44.04 common graces my net, I’m reminded of the pivotal role my notes played in its capture.
Reflecting on these records is not just about personal growth; it’s also about respecting the wisdom shared by fellow anglers. By taking ownership of my learning journey, I’ve unlocked a deeper appreciation for the sport and its challenges. For me, the true joy of carp fishing lies in this pursuit of knowledge, a journey that enriches every catch and fuels my passion further.
WHEN EVERYTHING FALLS INTO PLACE!
Ultimately, it boils down to a personal battle between me and the carp, regardless of the knowledge I’ve gleaned from various sources. This philosophy has kept my passion for fishing alive and well. By gathering and analyzing information firsthand, I’ve maximized the rewards of each catch – whether it’s celebrating the capture of a prized 43.14 target mirror or eagerly anticipating the next challenge.
Wishing you all tight lines and memorable angling adventures and do not forget to “take notes”.
If you’re new to carp fishing, the journey can be as simple or complex as you make it, read this short beginners guide to help you get started. Stepping into your local tackle shop for the first time might feel overwhelming with the array of options for bait, tackle, and gear. Where do you even begin?
Brand
Start by choosing a brand that offers everything you need to kickstart your fishing adventure. Cygnet Tackle is a great option with a wide range of products, including terminal tackle, luggage, and fish care items, all at affordable prices.
Rigs
When it comes to rigs, keep it basic. Start with a simple hair rig or possibly a pop-up rig, depending on your fishing venue. Don’t get too caught up in experimenting with different rigs just yet. Focus on getting fish on the mat and building confidence before diving into more advanced rig setups.
Venue
Selecting a fishing venue should be straightforward. Opt for a well-stocked location that isn’t overrun with weeds and is of a comfortable size. Your goal is to catch fish while mastering essential skills like accurate casting, playing fish, and carp care.
Social Media
Take advantage of the wealth of advice available on social media platforms. Follow pages like Trakker, Korda, Aqua, BCN and Cygnet on Facebook and Instagram for beginner-friendly tips. Additionally, watch instructional videos on Fishing YouTube channels, covering everything from tying knots to bivvy care.
Connect Locally
Attend local open days or shows to connect with experienced anglers and test out products before making purchases. Investing in a quality pair of polarized sunglasses, like Trakker’s wrap-around polaroids, is essential for spotting fish and navigating underwater terrain.
Take Notes
Keep detailed notes of your fishing experiences, noting productive times of day, successful baits, and weather conditions. These insights will inform your future outings and improve your chances of success.
Remember, every angler starts somewhere, and making mistakes is part of the learning process. Embrace the journey and enjoy every moment spent by the water’s edge! Hope this beginners guide will help!
Also join our Discord community to ask questions and find someone to show you the ropes.
Get your Starting Gear now at Big Carp Tackle Store:
