Author: Big Carp News

Steve "Spurgenator" Spurgeon Spring Fishing

Spring Fishing Success with Steve Spurgeon

by Big Carp News

Welcome to Spring Fishing at Manor Farm Fisheries with Fox Consultant, Steve “Spurgenator” Spurgeon! In this captivating journey, Steve shares his expert strategies for catching Carp as the seasons transition from winter rains to summer warmth.

Join us as we explore Steve’s unique insights and techniques for adapting to the changing natural conditions of Spring. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, this authentic depiction of expert angling is sure to inspire and inform. If you’re eager to maximize your spring fishing experience, then this video is a must-watch!

Marker Float

Guide: How To Use A Marker Float

by Big Carp News

The Marker Float is a crucial tool for understanding your swim. By following some simple steps, you can accurately map out depths, substrates, and distances to fish with precision on specific spots.

A Marker Float is a fishing accessory used to map out underwater features such as depths, substrates, and fish-holding spots. It typically consists of a buoyant float attached to a line with a weight at the end, which is cast out into the water. Anglers use it to measure depths, find underwater structures, and accurately position their rigs for fishing.

1. Setup:
– Begin by assembling your marker float setup. This typically involves attaching the marker float to your mainline using a strong swivel. Make sure the connection is secure to withstand casting and retrieving.

2. Attach Weight:
– Next, attach a heavy weight to the end of the mainline, below the marker float. This weight will help the marker sink to the bottom quickly and stay in place while you map out the swim.

3. Casting:
– Cast the float out to the area you want to explore. Aim for the spot where you plan to fish or any area of interest you want to investigate further. Allow the marker float to land gently on the water’s surface.

4. Depth Measurement:
– Once the float is in position, release the line slowly until the weight touches the bottom. Note the depth by marking the mainline or counting the number of rod lengths between the rod tip and the float.

5. Retrieve:
– After measuring the depth, reel in the marker float setup. Be sure to retrieve it carefully to avoid snagging or tangling the line.

6. Repeat and Map Out:
– Repeat the process by casting the marker float to different spots within your swim. By doing this systematically, you can map out the varying depths, substrate types, and any underwater features like gravel bars, weed beds, or drop-offs.

7. Note Observations:
– As you retrieve the marker float each time, take note of any observations such as changes in depth, bottom composition, or presence of underwater vegetation. These details will help you build a comprehensive understanding of the swim.

8. Position Rigs:
– Once you’ve mapped out the swim, you can use the information gathered to position your fishing rigs accurately. Place your baited rigs on or near the spots where you’ve found promising features or fish activity.

9. Adjustment
– Throughout your fishing session, you may need to adjust the position of your rigs based on changing conditions or fish behavior. The marker float allows you to do this efficiently by providing reference points for your fishing spots.

10. Safety Precautions:
– Always ensure safety when using a marker float, especially when casting near other anglers or obstacles. Be mindful of the surroundings and avoid casting over other anglers’ lines.

By following these steps and using the marker float methodically, you can gain valuable insights into the underwater environment and improve your chances of success while fishing.

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Inline Leads

Barry Delderfield: Inline Leads Expert

by Big Carp News

Barry Delderfield talks about why he uses Inline Leads. He excels as one of Korda’s most reliable team members, persistently capturing fish from diverse, challenging waters. Stealth is crucial to his tactics, and his go-to rig consists of small inline leads and extended, rigid hook links.

Barry’s preferred Inline Leads arrangement for weedy, close-range waters, up to around 15 wraps, involves a drop-off inline system. A relatively tight clutch enables the lead to detach almost instantly during a strike, mitigating the likelihood of weed accumulation and facilitating easier fish handling, while minimizing the risk of hook loss.

Inline Leads

Barry’s chosen lead arrangement promotes immediate reaction when a fish consumes the hookbait. Combined with an exceptionally sharp Kamakura hook, this setup significantly improves hooking rates over a season. In high-pressure scenarios with cautious carp, the rig’s split-second faster reaction time can mean the difference between a secure catch and an ejected rig. Inline systems offer direct contact, outperforming Lead Clip or Helicopter arrangements.

Tools for the job are essential. A small inline pear sits inconspicuously on the lake bed, flatter than a distance or ball lead, making it harder for carp to detect, aligning with Barry’s emphasis on stealth.

Inline Leads

Consistency in carp fishing is capturing fish even when they’re not feeding voraciously. Barry believes this approach outsmarts the wariest carp, leading to more bites and increasing the chances of capturing that target fish. His preference for the lightest lead possible, often just 2.5oz, allows him to discreetly position rigs with minimal disturbance.

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40lb UK Catch: Securing My First UK Forty (Hanna Newell)!

40lb UK Catch: Securing My First UK Forty (Hanna Newell)!

by Big Carp News

In a thrilling tale of triumph, Hannah Newell (supported by Trakker), shares her exhilarating journey to landing her inaugural UK 40lb ‘er.

True to its name, this experience left me utterly astounded. My recent trip to the breathtaking Hacche Moor fishery in Devon was nothing short of remarkable. Accompanied by my husband, we embarked on this adventure alongside some of the Carp Particles UK team, eager for a bit of socializing and, more importantly, some quality angling time after enduring a lengthy summer holiday with the kids.

Departing from Oxford on a Thursday morning, anticipation and excitement filled the air as we braced ourselves for what lay ahead. We were well aware of an impending weather front, heralding heavy rain, thunderstorms, and a drop in air pressure—a perfect storm, so to speak, compounded by the harvest moon weekend. With conditions aligning so perfectly, we couldn’t help but anticipate a memorable outing.

As we neared north Devon, the skies opened up, unleashing a deluge that tested the limits of our windshield wipers. The contrast between this downpour and the sunny journey down the M5 through Bristol was stark, to say the least.

Upon our arrival at the fishery, we rendezvoused with the rest of the group and embarked on a tour of the lakes. Spread across three small, intimate pits, these waters promised exciting prospects. “Jakes Lake,” the smallest among them. It boasted a healthy population of carp, with specimens reaching up to 29lb.

The “bottom lake,” the largest of the trio, housed around 140 carp, including stunning scaley mirrors weighing up to 35lb. However, it was the “Top Lake” that truly captured my imagination, with its impressive roster of 57 carp, several weighing in the 30s, and two behemoths tipping the scales at over 40lb. Naturally, I hoped to secure a peg on this coveted lake—our chances would depend on the upcoming swim draw.

Luck was on my side as I drew the coveted number 1 ball, granting me first pick of pegs on the Top Lake. Opting for a spot at the lake’s lower end, where I had observed some promising activity earlier, I wasted no time setting up my gear. However, a minor hiccup arose—I realized my reels were devoid of line, having just acquired them. After hastily erecting our bivvy amidst the rain, I spooled up the reels and rigged up my rods, eager to get started.

The first rod was deployed near a pipe adjacent to a bed of Canadian weed, armed with a bright pink Hell Pop Up to stand out in the murky waters churned up by the inclement weather. As I prepared the second rod, I was rudely interrupted by a sudden bite on the first, highlighting a rookie oversight—I had neglected to apply putty to my Ronnie rig, jeopardizing the hookup. Despite the setback, I managed to hook a carp briefly before it escaped—a promising start amidst the challenging conditions.

As evening fell, news of Queen Elizabeth II’s passing cast a somber shadow over our idyllic surroundings. Amidst introspection, I was jolted into action by a slow, subtle take on my rod—the same one that had earlier enticed a bite.

With bated breath, Hanna Newell engaged in a cautious battle with the unseen behemoth, which initially offered little resistance. However, its sudden burst of energy transformed the encounter into a thrilling ordeal, as it darted through the underwater obstacles, testing my resolve. Eventually, I triumphed, netting the prize—a magnificent carp that would soon reveal its true magnitude.

Upon closer inspection, it became evident that I had landed the biggest fish in the lake—the legendary Bullet, weighing in at a staggering 43lb 10oz. The sheer disbelief and euphoria that engulfed me were palpable as I shared the moment with fellow anglers, capturing memories that would last a lifetime.

Following the commotion, I sat in quiet contemplation, savoring a well-deserved glass of red wine. Amidst the whirlwind of emotions, one thing was certain—this remarkable 40lb catch would forever be etched in my memory as my first UK 40lb. A testament to the unpredictability and magic of angling. ~ Hanna Newell

Longshank Beaked Hook

Longshank Beaked Hook Enhancements

by Big Carp News

Danny Fairbrass, known for his innovative approach to angling gear, has refined the already successful Longshank X pattern of hook to the Longshank Beaked Hook, enhancing its effectiveness for catching carp. These improvements build upon the hook’s proven track record of over 20 years, demonstrating Fairbrass’s commitment to optimizing fishing equipment.

The enhancements to the Longshank X pattern likely address specific aspects of carp behavior or hook performance, such as increasing hooking efficiency, improving durability, or enhancing bait presentation. By incorporating these tweaks, Fairbrass has elevated the hook’s effectiveness, ensuring anglers can achieve even greater success in catching carp both domestically and internationally.

Longshank Beaked Hook

Anglers can anticipate improved hooking capabilities, increased confidence in landing carp, and enhanced overall fishing experiences with the upgraded Longshank X pattern. Fairbrass’s dedication to refining angling gear underscores his commitment to advancing the sport and helping anglers achieve their goals on the water.

The original Longshank X pattern drew inspiration from popular fly hook designs of its time, which were renowned for their shape and hooking efficiency. However, this pattern was modified to be more robust and sharper, specifically tailored for hooking and successfully landing large carp. The elongated shank and inward-turned eye were key features that facilitated the hook’s effectiveness.

Longshank Beaked Hook

The extended shank provided several advantages. Firstly, it increased the hook’s leverage, enabling it to penetrate deeper into the carp’s mouth upon striking. Additionally, the elongated design minimized the risk of the hook becoming dislodged during the fight, maintaining a secure hold on the fish. The aggressively in-turned eye further aided in hook setting, ensuring a firm grip once the carp took the bait.

These design elements were carefully engineered to address the challenges of carp fishing, where the fish’s size and strength demand robust and reliable tackle. By combining the attributes of traditional fly hooks with enhancements tailored for carp angling, the Longshank X pattern emerged as a versatile and dependable choice for anglers seeking to hook and land big carp effectively.

Longshank Beaked Hook

Indeed, the pursuit of innovation and continuous improvement is intrinsic to the world of carp fishing. Drawing upon his extensive experience and insights gained from observing carp behavior through underwater cameras, Danny Fairbrass recognized an opportunity to refine the Longshank X pattern further. This dedication to refinement has led to the development of the new Longshank Beaked hook pattern.

The Longshank Beaked hook pattern represents the next evolution in carp fishing tackle, promising to be even more lethal than its predecessor. By analyzing how carp interact with rigs in their natural environment, Fairbrass identified areas for enhancement, refining the hook’s design to optimize its performance.

The introduction of the “beaked” feature likely addresses specific nuances observed in carp behavior, enhancing the hook’s ability to penetrate and secure a hold once a fish takes the bait. This adaptation reflects Fairbrass’s commitment to staying ahead of the curve and providing anglers with the most effective tools for landing carp successfully.

Anglers can anticipate that the Longshank Beaked hook pattern will offer heightened hooking efficiency, increased reliability, and ultimately, greater success on the water. Fairbrass’s dedication to innovation underscores his passion for the sport and his ongoing efforts to push the boundaries of carp fishing equipment.

Longshank Beaked Hook

Danny Fairbrass’s decision to make two major changes to the Longshank hook, based on his extensive experience and testing, reflects his commitment to improving anglers’ success rates in landing carp. The first significant alteration involved replacing the straight point with a beaked one.

Through rigorous testing, Fairbrass found that the beaked point design offered distinct advantages over the straight point. Specifically, it led to more secure hookholds, ensuring that once a carp took the bait, the hook remained firmly embedded, reducing the likelihood of the fish shaking loose during the fight. This improvement resulted in a notable increase in the ratio of fish hooked to those successfully landed, demonstrating the efficacy of the beaked point in enhancing hooking efficiency.

Fairbrass’s decision to incorporate the beaked point into the Longshank hook underscores his dedication to refining tackle based on empirical evidence and practical experience. By prioritizing hook performance and reliability, he has succeeded in elevating the Longshank hook to a new level of effectiveness, ultimately empowering anglers to achieve greater success on the water.

Danny Fairbrass’s decision to further enhance the Longshank Beaked hook by increasing the angle of the in-turned eye from 20 degrees to 40 degrees demonstrates his meticulous attention to detail and commitment to optimizing hook performance. This adjustment accelerates the hook’s flipping and turning action upon entry into the carp’s mouth, significantly increasing the likelihood of a secure hookhold. When combined with the beaked point, this feature ensures that once the hook takes hold, it remains firmly embedded, minimizing the risk of losing the fish during the fight.

Maintaining the original pattern’s stepped-up wire gauge for added strength, the Longshank Beaked hook is engineered to withstand the rigors of angling in both domestic and international waters, as well as challenging fishing conditions and encounters with large fish. Its forged construction further enhances durability, while the PTFE coating provides maximum protection against corrosion and wear, ensuring longevity and reliability in prolonged use.

Longshank Beaked Hook

By integrating these enhancements, Fairbrass has elevated the Longshank Beaked hook to a versatile and robust option for anglers seeking to target carp effectively in various fishing scenarios. Its combination of strength, durability, and enhanced hooking performance makes it a formidable tool in the pursuit of big fish, further cementing its reputation as a top choice among discerning anglers.

The Longshank Beaked hook has surpassed expectations, proving to be superior to the original design. Danny Fairbrass, along with numerous other anglers, extensively tested and utilized this hook, resulting in the successful capture of numerous big carp from challenging venues.

One of the key strengths of the Longshank Beaked hook is its versatility. It is compatible with a wide range of rig setups, including spinner rigs, combi rigs, and PVA bag rigs, making it suitable for various bait presentations such as bottom baits, wafters, and pop-ups. This adaptability ensures that anglers can confidently use the Longshank Beaked hook across different fishing scenarios, maximizing their chances of success.

Longshank Beaked Hook

Moreover, the Longshank Beaked hook is available in both barbed and barbless versions, catering to anglers’ preferences and adhering to fishery regulations. It comes in sizes 2, 4, 6, and 8, with ten hooks included in each packet, providing anglers with ample supply for their fishing expeditions.

With its enhanced performance, adaptability, and availability in different configurations, the Longshank Beaked hook has established itself as a go-to option for anglers targeting big carp in various environments. Its proven track record and widespread adoption among anglers testify to its effectiveness and reliability on the water.

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early spring session

Early Spring Session with Iggy

by Big Carp News

Solar Team Member Ignace de Roeck, fondly known as Iggy, recently embarked on an eventful early spring session in France alongside his friend Bart. True to form, Iggy made exceptional use of our baits, showcasing his angling prowess. Here’s the full story from the Man himself…

After a prolonged absence from fishing, I finally had the chance to indulge in a week-long fishing trip in France. However, this wasn’t your typical fishing excursion—this time, I was joined by one of my closest friends, Koen Machielsen, and, believe it or not, our girlfriends. The idea was sparked when another dear friend and Solar team member, Wes Lagaert, contacted me with an enticing proposition: an opportunity to go fishing at a lake in Mid France. Unfortunately, Wes had to cancel his holiday due to work commitments, so he offered us the chance to take his place. Without hesitation, we eagerly accepted the offer.

The lake we were headed to was approximately 5 hectares in size, with shallow waters—a promising fishing spot. What’s more, the best part was that we had the entire lake to ourselves. On the premises, there was a luxurious bungalow, spacious enough to accommodate a whole family. Inside, the bungalow boasted all the modern amenities one could ask for. While such accommodations weren’t typically my preference for a fishing trip, they proved to be a convincing factor in persuading our girlfriends to join us on this adventure.

After a grueling 7-hour drive, navigating through traffic jams around Paris, we finally reached our destination. The initial impression of the entire domain was nothing short of breathtaking. With temperatures soaring to 28 degrees Celsius, a clear blue sky, and the serene backdrop of the lake, it felt like the perfect haven to unwind and reconnect with nature. While this type of setting was somewhat unfamiliar to me, we were determined to embrace the experience.

As we began unpacking our gear, something caught our attention in the periphery. At first, I dismissed it as a trick of the light, but upon closer observation, it became evident that the carp were spawning. It was an unbelievable sight to behold.

Despite it only being mid-April, I needed confirmation. I reached out and dipped my hand into the lake, feeling the temperature of the water. There was no mistaking it—it was indeed their spawning season. Though our spirits wavered momentarily, we resolved to make the most of the situation.

early spring session

The first night passed uneventfully, prompting us to explore the shallower bays at the back of the lake. While the water clarity was lacking throughout, it was particularly murky in these shallow areas due to the presence of carp. Without exchanging a word, we silently acknowledged the opportunity before us and began setting up our gear. Our plan was to stalk the carp for a few hours using single pop-up chods.

By late afternoon, we had successfully landed our first carp using this method. However, we couldn’t shake the feeling of uncertainty regarding the way they were hooked.

It became evident that our initial method wasn’t yielding the desired results. Determined to crack the code, the following afternoon found us once again stalking carp in the shallow bays. This time, we opted for the ronnie rig paired with different pop-ups, experimenting with color and scent to see if it made any difference. While we did manage to hook a few fish, it still fell short of our expectations. There was a sense that we were missing something crucial.

early spring session

Even during the night sessions at the bungalow swim, where we caught fish weighing up to 15 kg, the issue persisted. The carp weren’t being properly hooked, despite using the reliable ronnie setup, which had never let me down before. It seemed to be related to the way they were feeding. As our last two bites were also lost, it was clear that adjustments were necessary. We needed to carefully strategize our approach to overcome this challenge.

The next morning, our strategy led us back to the bays, where we intended to test Solar’s new rig material and the latest Solar wafters, specifically the red herring variant. I had prepared these wafters two weeks prior, soaking them in RH Max Attrax. The thick liquid had infused the wafters perfectly, rendering them irresistibly fragrant. Their buoyancy remained optimal, ready to entice the carp into action.

It didn’t take long for our adjustment to pay off handsomely. Within fifteen minutes of casting out, a magnificent 40lb mirror carp lay on the unhooking mat, a testament to the effectiveness of the new setup. Furthermore, our choice of bait, the RH/Quench boilies, received resounding approval from our piscine companions. This discovery proved to be the key that unlocked success—consistently baiting the area and presenting the RH wafters along the margins proved to be a winning combination.

It quickly became apparent that our success was not limited to just one fish. Over the course of five hours, we landed an impressive total of 8 fish, including several 40lb mirror carp. Encouraged by this success, we applied the same technique to the bungalow swim overnight, once again yielding positive results. However, the pinnacle of our adventure occurred in the early morning hours when I had the privilege of landing one of the top fish on Koen’s rods—a magnificent 53lb specimen.

early spring session

As the weather took an unexpected turn with the onset of rain and a significant drop in temperature, we made the decision to focus our efforts solely from the bungalow for the remainder of our trip. We were mindful that the changing conditions might prompt the fish to roam more, but our determination remained unwavering.

With precision, we continued to fish the Cuttings, refining our approach even further. Once again, our tactic proved to be the right choice, as numerous fish found their way into our nets. On the final night, the action was so intense that all six fishing rods were in motion by morning. Koen finally landed the catch he had been hoping for, while my rod proudly brought in a stunning 49lb mirror carp.

In the spirit of settling the score, we concluded our adventure feeling tired but immensely satisfied. Looking back, it was undeniably a highly successful holiday. The memories we created will linger, and we are already contemplating a return trip someday. Our success was rooted in a few key principles: remaining vigilant, adapting tactics as needed, and most importantly, closely observing the water surface for signs of carp activity.

These fundamental rules guided us to success throughout our early spring session.

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Carp Fishing Trip

Father and Son First Carp Fishing Trip (Video)

by Big Carp News

Join Lee ‘Mozza’ Morris in an exciting new series as he introduces his son Llewyn to the world of carp fishing for the very first time on a joint Carp Fishing Trip!

Watch as Mozza guides Llewyn through the fundamentals of casting, rig tying, and landing fish. Whether you’re new to carp fishing or planning a family fishing trip, this film is packed with valuable tips and advice to get you started!

If you’re new to carp fishing or are looking at taking your kids fishing, this is a great film to help with the basics!

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Catching more Carp without spending more!

by Big Carp News

Catching more Carp! May these tips reel in more fish without breaking the bank! Remember, even the simplest advice can make the biggest splash. Whether you’re a novice or a pro, keep casting and keep learning! Before splurging on the latest gear, dive into these cost-free tips to level up your carp fishing game. Who needs fancy gadgets when you’ve got tried-and-true tactics up your sleeve?

Before heading out to a new fishing spot, arm yourself with knowledge. Dive into online resources, starting with YouTube. Search for the venue name and sift through the plethora of videos offering tips and insights from seasoned anglers.

Next, visit the fishery’s website. Often, you’ll find detailed write-ups from fellow anglers sharing their successful tactics, whether it’s using zigs or fishing on the bottom. Pay attention to any information about the lake’s depth profile, identifying the deeper and shallower areas, as well as pegs with optimal water coverage.

Remember, thorough research sets the stage for a successful angling adventure!

Check the Weather!

In the UK, weather chatter is practically a national pastime, and fortunately, there’s no shortage of apps to keep you updated on the forecast. Monitoring the weather while you’re at the lake can significantly boost your carp-catching game.

Take advantage of apps like Windy, which not only indicates wind direction but also forecasts changes hour by hour throughout your session. For instance, a warm South Westerly wind often lures fish to the corner it blows into, while a chilly Northerly wind may push them to the opposite side.

Additionally, don’t overlook the obvious: Dressing appropriately for the weather ensures your comfort throughout your angling adventure. Sometimes, the simplest tips are the most effective!

Learn to be more Accurate

Tip number four is all about honing your accuracy. This skill develops over time with plenty of practice, so it’s wise to keep a rod, reel, and lead handy in your car. Whenever you have a spare hour, head to the lake and focus on casting consistently to the same marker or across to the far bank.

Another technique for precision is mastering the art of wrapping up. Once you’ve pinpointed your spot, wrapping up ensures you consistently cast to the exact same area every time. This allows you to bait accurately and position your rig directly over the bait, significantly boosting your chances of a successful catch.

Master Feeling the Lead Down

Learning to ‘feel the lead down,’ also known as detecting the ‘donk,’ is a skill that requires practice but offers valuable insights into your fishing setup and the lake bed beneath.

As you cast out, keep your line taut, and pay attention as the lead sinks through the water. You’ll notice a distinct sensation when the lead makes contact with the bottom. A firm, solid ‘donk’ indicates a hard lake bed, while a softer sensation suggests silt. If you feel nothing at all, it’s likely your lead has landed in dense weed. This technique is most effective when using braid on your spod and marker rods.

Maintain Clean Gear at all Times

Ensuring your gear stays clean isn’t just about protecting your equipment; it also enhances performance. Clean rod eyes prevent dirt buildup during casting, while running your line through a towel before winding in removes sediment.

After using your bite alarms, ensure they’re dry before packing them away to prevent moisture damage. Keeping your gear clean ensures longevity and enhances your comfort during fishing sessions.

Organize Your Tackle Bag in a useful and efficient way

Maximize your fishing time by keeping your tackle bag well-organized. Knowing the precise location of your hooks, leads, lead clips, and other terminal tackle items will expedite rig changes and baiting after a bite. Additionally, having designated spots for each item facilitates quick access, even during nighttime sessions.

Be Prepared with your Gear

Ensure you’re ready for your fishing trip by having pre-tied rigs and ready-to-use PVA bags. This preparation allows you to spend more time fishing and less time rigging up on the bank.

Put in sufficient Effort

Don’t overlook pegs further from the car park; these less-pressured spots could yield better results. Be willing to move swims during your session to follow the fish. Putting in the effort to explore different areas of the lake can lead to greater success.

Be Nice, Be Polite! It costs you nothing

Building good relationships with fellow anglers and lake bailiffs can be invaluable. Take the time to engage with them, show appreciation, and be respectful. Their insights and tips can give you a significant advantage on the water. Remember, manners cost nothing but can earn you plenty.

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Chilling Discoveries: Cold Weather Fishing

by Big Carp News

Similar to my approach to warm weather fishing, I tend to adopt a flexible strategy for finding fish for cold weather fishing. I’ve learned that fish will be where they are, so it’s crucial to keep an open mind about their whereabouts and feeding areas for the winter months..

While baiting campaigns can be effective, they’re not always feasible, especially on busy lakes. Whether it’s a single trip or a longer campaign, my most valuable asset remains watercraft. While I may still catch fish during the spring, summer, and autumn even if my location isn’t perfect, carp tend to hold up more during the cold months. Therefore, it’s essential to be precisely where they are, as they may move around in response to various factors like conditions and pressure.

In the winter, the areas where I might trigger a feeding response tend to be more confined, with fewer features that appeal to fish. Opinions on the best spots vary widely, with some anglers favoring snags, others favoring deep water, and some preferring shallower areas. However, it’s important to recognize that every fishing venue is unique, and the fish within them will have their own preferences. Therefore, I try to remain open-minded and not dismiss any part of the lake as potentially productive.

Similar features on different venues may not always attract fish in the same way. For example, one of my fishing spots has a large reed bed that seems to attract more fish as daylight hours decrease. However, on a nearby lake with a similar reed bed, I’ve never observed carp gathering there during the winter months.

Winter carp behavior can be quite consistent, with certain areas on some venues reliably producing cold water bites year after year. For instance, when I used to fish at Horton, there were specific deep water spots where carp would reliably gather as soon as the first frosts set in. However, at Dinton, the situation was different; there were no clearly defined winter hotspots. Instead, cold water captures occurred in various areas across the lake, including the middle, either end, margins, and even in open water. Despite this variability, each year would bring a shift in the preferred locations for carp, making it essential to stay adaptable and observant.

I believe that the varying behavior of winter carp might be influenced by the topography of the lakes. For example, although both Horton and Dinton were reasonably deep, Horton had noticeable depth changes compared to Dinton’s more uniform lake bed. This difference in topography could explain why carp behavior varied between the two lakes. In my experience fishing on other venues during winter, I’ve noticed a similar pattern: lakes with greater depth variation tend to have more reliable winter features, while those with flatter bottoms are often less predictable.

One of the most productive winter spots I’ve ever discovered was nestled in a trough of twenty feet deep water, adjacent to the sheer side of a bar rising up eight feet. Interestingly, all the winter catches I’ve made on that lake came from areas ranging between eighteen and twenty-two feet deep, with shallower waters nearby. This particular type of spot, characterized by variations in depth, is what I typically seek out in a venue. I look for troughs between bars or deep water alongside plateaux. On lakes with flatter bottoms, I anticipate carp to gravitate towards snags, reeds, remnants of weedbeds, undercuts, or any area that provides security and shelter.

Despite detailing potential carp locations, I make a conscious effort not to hold onto preconceived notions, even in familiar places. While prior knowledge and expectations can be useful, carp are unpredictable, influenced by various factors like weather conditions, environmental changes, pressure, food availability, and stock levels. I’ve encountered winter carp in as little as two feet of water and as deep as 22 feet. They’ve been caught in open water and along the edges. Bites have occurred in freezing cold easterly winds and warm south-westerlies. Essentially, carp will be where they choose to be, which may not align with our expectations.

Observation is my primary tool for success. Rarely do I rely on mere hunches; instead, I continuously scout and observe until I detect signs of fish presence. In winter, these signs are often subtle, requiring heightened attention to detail. Binoculars become invaluable, allowing me to scrutinize even the slightest movements from a distance. These subtle cues, like bubbles breaking the surface, may indicate feeding activity. While they could be caused by various factors, such as gas or other fish species, they could just as easily signal carp feeding on remaining bloodworm. Such signs guide my decision-making process, helping me pinpoint promising areas worth further investigation.

Birdwatching can also provide valuable insights. I’ve noticed tufted ducks, or “tufties,” exhibiting interesting behavior that could lead me to carp. While I can’t be certain, I believe tufties sometimes trail carp to find food more easily during winter when resources are scarce. However, it’s not a guarantee that carp will be beneath them. Instead, I watch for specific patterns. For example, if I see tufties congregating in a sheltered bay, then suddenly moving out to open water and lingering without diving, it often indicates the presence of carp below. Over time, I’ve had enough success catching winter carp in these situations to consider tufties a helpful indicator of potential fishing spots.

Coot behavior can also signal the presence of carp. If a coot pauses, reverses course, or takes a detour, it likely encountered carp in the upper layers. Similarly, if a coot dives over my spot but abruptly retreats without reaching the bottom, it often indicates feeding fish. At night, coots may emit alarm calls in response to fish splashing, especially when they roost in reed beds where fish gather. Carp feeding on silt may release bubbles and debris that go unnoticed from afar, but seagulls diving in the area offer a chance to investigate with binoculars.

By Matt Eaton

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