Summer Strategy: Post-Spawn Feeding Frenzy – As the spawn wraps up, I love to really treat the carp with some generous baiting. During the late summer months into early autumn, these fish can be incredibly active, especially in those cool morning hours which often yield great results.

The New “Big Autumn Feed Up”

The traditional idea of a big autumn feed up has shifted due to fishing pressure and climate changes. Nowadays, I find that the big feed up occurs much earlier, during July and August. I call this period the “clubbing season” because the carp are voracious and less cautious, making them prime for catching.

Feeding Strategy

Once the carp start feeding, you can’t overfeed them. When the bites start coming, I’m not shy about giving them a hefty amount. My bait mix is centered around boilies, complemented by a mix of hemp, nuts, chops, and corn to keep them busy. I prefer using a big, obvious hookbait like a snowman on a D Rig.

Hookbait and Rig Setup

I like my hookbait to be highly visible, making it easy for the carp to target. When using bits and pieces, I fish the cleanest spots with a bottom bait. Yellow or white toppers are my go-to for hookbaits because they stand out and often lead to quick bites.

My D Rigs are made with size 4 Kamakura Wide Gape X hooks on long 9-inch or longer IQ2 booms. I use 21 turns of the IQ2 to whip the hook on, creating a long loop that allows the hookbait plenty of movement and helps the hook catch hold.

Baiting the Right Spots

It’s crucial to bait the right areas. I focus on spots where I see carp at dawn, areas where they’re showing and fizzing, typically in open water between weed beds. They feed here at night and dawn but retreat to snags and shallow bays during the day, where you can stalk them.

Stalking and Floater Fishing

In the heat of the day, carp often avoid the main spots, so I’ll quietly move around the lake, looking for opportunities along the edges. By baiting close-in spots with just a handful of bait, I can create chances for quick bites. It’s a matter of carefully lowering a rig into position to snatch a bite.

Staying Active and Prepared

Baiting multiple spots around the lake can lead to several catches in a day, while other anglers might be struggling. In the evening, I return to the main body of water over my baited spots. This active fishing style can be incredibly rewarding.

Personal Care

Summer fishing requires self-care. With the intense weather of recent years, it’s essential to stay hydrated, eat well, use sun protection, and wear appropriate clothing like hats and polarized sunglasses. Taking care of yourself ensures you can fish longer and more effectively, leading to more catches.