Join seasoned anglers Jake Forrester and Ben Cartwright as they tackle the tough conditions at Theale Fisheries’ Island Lake, all in a bid to secure their spot on the consultancy team!
With clear skies and scorching temperatures, the odds are stacked against them. But with carp gliding near the surface, their first plan of attack is surface fishing. 🎣
As the heat fades and the evening approaches, Jake and Ben switch gears, honing in on key bottom spots and getting their bait in place. It’s a high-pressure session that tests their skills, teamwork, and determination. Will they succeed, or will they risk losing it all?
Some love them and others…well, they love them a lot less. Whatever your thoughts of grass carp are, there is no denying that they achieve some very impressive proportions and can be found over much of the United States. They have been stocked in many waters for weed control and even small ponds can have 50+ lb fish, making them by far the largest fish available in many areas.
While this 40+lb fish is of course large it is nothing to how big this species can get!
Grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) is a native of the Amur River system in Asia, which also gives rise to one of it’s other common names, the white amur. It has been introduced nearly worldwide for control of aquatic vegetation, but this has not always worked as planned many different plant species are consumed and habitat for other fish species can be lost. Stocking of grass carp today is done with triploid fish that are not able to reproduce and are supposed to allow better control of vegetation. They are easy to distinguish from Common carp as they lack barbels and their mouth is terminal (at the end of the body).
Grass carp and common carp are easy to tell apart.
In the spring grass carp often try and make a spawning run up tributaries…even if they are triploid and will not be able to spawn. This is a good time to look for them below dams or other obstructions to upstream movement. During the rest of the year they can be found anywhere there is food, which in lakes is often in the backs of coves and in rivers is around back waters. Also I have done well with them even in the winter so long as it is not too cold – the fish pictured above was captured in January.
grass carp: Normal grass carp (and humans) are Diploid whereas sterile grass carp are Triploid.
Locating a place to catch grass carp is normally fairly simple. As they are stocked in many waters, management agencies can normally direct you to waters that have them. If in doubt grass carp tend to be easy to spot while fishing as they will suspend just below the surface as they look for food. Even waters that don’t have a regular stocking program tend to have a few if it is part of a larger drainage because grass carp stocked in private ponds tend to escape and look for new homes. If you need a starting place to look for them check out this USGS page that has a map of the waters that are known to contain grass carp. This is certainly not complete, however, and the small pond down the road might have some 40+lb fish in it.
Looking for grass carp? Chances are you won’t have to go far! (Click the map to see full version)
Catching this kind of carp offers anglers a great deal of chance for personal expression as they can be caught in just about every way a common can. Grass carp are fond of feeding on the surface and will take floating baits under the right conditions. Bread is most often one of the best baits for this but chunks of bagel are tougher and will stay on the hook better. Another option is to feed them on pieces of bread and then use bagel or fake bread on the hook or hair. While this is the most exciting way to catch them I have found that it is more reliable to target them on the bottom using normal common carp rigs and often bait. Grass carp are known to enjoy eating fruity baits, and I have done well with pineapple, plum, and strawberry flavors. Often overlooked bait for grass carp are fishy ones. My PB grass carp was taken on a homemade boilie in strawberry and shrimp flavor and I have caught lots on cranberry squid and straight up squid boilies as well so it pays to keep your options open. If you are fishing in smaller ponds or at close range you can free line chunks of fresh fruit as well. My first grass carp fell to a chunk of canned pineapple!
Pineapple is a good bait for grass carp. Why is unknown as it is not a normal part of the diet of grass carp in the wild!
Rigs for grass carp can be any that you like for common carp but you may want to use a larger size as these fish have larger mouths than their common cousins. I have found a size 4 or larger to be just fine for all but the smallest fish. Grass carp don’t seem to be all that adept at ridding themselves of a hook so rigs don’t have to be as super refined – that being said, a good rig will always catch you more fish, so just make sure your rig turns over and is of course safe! I have found a snowman bait arrangement to work well with a blowback rig for these fish.
A word of caution when using free-lined bait is in order as I have had grass carp swallow the hook…deep. Unlike their common cousins they don’t seem to necessarily get hooked when trying to rid themselves of the hook, so save yourself and the fish and pay close attention when using no weight. If the hook is really deep it is best to cut the line as close as you can to the fish and unless the hook is stainless or in a bad spot it will likely rust out and the fish will be fine.
And lastly here is a location tip from my own experience: if you are looking for a destination to catch big (and plentiful) grass carp (and some good commons too), check out the Congaree River and Santee-Cooper Lakes in South Carolina. This system is full of 40+lb fish and there are 60+lb fish to be had.
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.
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:
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.
During the spring and summer, targeting crucian carp ranks high among my angling pursuits. Their mesmerizing golden scales shimmering under the sun’s rays create an irresistible allure.
Traditionally, crucians were deemed cautious feeders, prompting anglers to employ delicate float fishing techniques during the tranquil hours of dawn and dusk. While these methods hold their charm, modern specimen fishing has ushered in refined tackle and tactics, offering new avenues for pursuing these elusive fish.
Venue Selection
For those seeking hefty true crucians, the Marsh Farm complex managed by Godalming Angling Society stands as a premier destination. Renowned for its sizable crucians, this venue attracts anglers yearning for a shot at landing a personal best. While other waters boast crucians, Marsh Farm’s abundance sets it apart, drawing top specimen anglers seeking golden treasures.
Location Insights
In crucian fishing, astute location scouting is paramount. These fish often signal their presence with telltale rolls during the twilight hours. Spending evenings observing potential hotspots along the margins can provide invaluable clues. Areas with depth and marginal features are prime crucian territory, especially during dawn and dusk.
In instances where shallow margins are absent, targeting distances of 20-30 yards during daytime proves fruitful. However, transitioning to close-range setups at dusk or to evade pesky tench becomes strategic. Crucians thrive in marginal zones, making depth secondary to suitable cover.
Hook Baits and Feeding Strategy for Crucian Carp
Small hookable pellets, corn, mini boilies, or casters serve as ideal hook baits for crucians. I favor fishmeal-based groundbaits with minimal feed, relying on their potent scent to lure crucians. Hookable pellets dominate my arsenal, complemented by backup options like corn and 10mm boilies.
Feeding tactics vary, with some anglers opting for light baiting approaches. Conversely, I embrace a more assertive strategy, heavily baiting swims to entice crucians. Employing a spod to dispense groundbait at 20-30 yard ranges garners attention, as crucians are drawn to the sound of feeding. This proactive approach challenges traditional notions, often yielding favorable outcomes.
Crucian Carp Tackling Techniques
Rig simplicity reigns supreme in crucian fishing. While traditional float tactics hold merit, employing modern flatbed method feeders offers versatility. Paired with short hook lengths, this setup enhances bite detection, converting subtle movements into confident strikes. Accurate casting, facilitated by stop knots and line clips, maximizes effectiveness.
A robust main line like Gardner Tackle’s 6lb Hydro Flo ensures durability during feeder casting and fish handling. For hook lengths, Gardner Target fluorocarbon in 5lb strength strikes a balance between stealth and resilience. When employing groundbait sticks, masking the hook bait from debris optimizes presentation.
By implementing the tactics and bait strategies I’ve discussed, I successfully landed 15 crucians, with the largest one nearly hitting the elusive four-pound mark, weighing in at an impressive 3lb 14oz. This achievement underscores the effectiveness of fine-tuning your approach and maintaining a positive mindset, which can lead to significant success in carp fishing.
~ Alan Stagg
Top 5 Crucian Carp Fishing Tips:
1. Ensure precision in feeder fishing by using a stop knot marker alongside the spool’s line clip. Consistent accuracy increases your chances of success.
2. Cast your line regularly. Fish often respond quickly to recasting as they home in on the feeder or groundbait stick.
3. Maintain a steady supply of feed in your swim. Crucians and tench consume ample bait, so topping up regularly ensures sustained activity. A quiet swim signals the need for replenishment.
4. Opt for small pellets, whether real or imitation, as effective hook baits for crucians.
5. Allow the swim time to settle. Allowing a period of rest after baiting encourages fish to confidently gather in the area.
Engaging in carp fishing is a favored pursuit among many anglers, and discerning the best time for carp angling can be the key to transforming a day on the water from frustration to success. This discussion delves into thebest time for carp angling and imparts some insights on maximizing the outcome of your fishing expedition.
WHEN SHOULD YOU CHOOSE TO CARP FISH?
The best time for carp angling typically unfolds during the warmer months, spanning from late spring to early autumn. During this period, the water temperature is at its zenith, motivating carp to be more active and engaged in feeding. As cold-blooded creatures, carp experience an uptick in metabolism with rising water temperatures, necessitating more frequent feeding.
Weather conditions play a pivotal role in planning a carp fishing venture. Carp exhibit heightened feeding behavior when confronted with low barometric pressure, often coinciding with an approaching storm. Overcast and rainy days are opportune for carp fishing, as these conditions encourage carp to venture closer to the water’s surface for feeding.
Considering the time of day is equally critical when orchestrating a carp fishing excursion. Optimal fishing times are typically early morning and late evening, coinciding with cooler water temperatures. Carp tend to be less active during the hottest part of the day, retreating to deeper, cooler waters.
STRATEGIES FOR EFFECTIVE CARP FISHING:
Now armed with knowledge about the best time for carp fishing, here are some strategic tips to enhance your fishing experience:
Choose the Right Bait:
Carp are omnivorous, consuming a variety of bait like pellets, boilies, sweetcorn, and bread. Experimenting with different baits can help determine what works best in your specific fishing location.
Use Appropriate Tackle:
Given the strength of carp and their formidable resistance, employing the right tackle is imperative for successful landings. Utilize a robust line, a high-quality reel, and a suitable rod.
Exercise Patience:
Carp can be elusive, demanding patience. Set up your fishing spot, wait quietly, and be patient for the opportune moment when carp are enticed to bite.
Practice Stealth:
Carp possess keen eyesight and are easily startled. Maintain quietude, avoid sudden movements, and wear muted clothing to prevent casting shadows over the water.
Maintain Fresh Bait:
Carp have a keen sense of smell, necessitating the use of fresh bait free from overpowering odors that might deter the fish.
Best Time for Carp Angling: CONCLUDING THOUGHTS
To sum up, the best time for carp angling aligns with the warmer months, emphasizing early morning and late evening as optimal fishing times. Overcast or rainy days further enhance the prospects.
Success in carp fishing involves employing the right bait and tackle, coupled with patience, stealth, and the use of fresh bait. Wishing you a rewarding and enjoyable carp fishing trip!
In this insightful piece, Marc Cavaciuti, a key member of Team Korda, delves into the Carp Spring Strategies he employs during the spring season and sheds light on why they prove highly effective as carp begin to stir.
Be Ready with these Carp Spring Strategies
Spring marks a crucial phase in the pursuit of big carp, demanding meticulous preparation for optimal results.
By now, your chosen spring waters should be identified—a critical opportunity that shouldn’t be left to the last minute. It’s imperative to be present when the fish truly wake up, rather than waiting at home for venue updates. Be the one igniting the spark, not the individual left dampening the embers.
Familiarity with your campaign water enables effective preparation. Last year, the 15lb Touchdown stood out for me—sinking well, nearly invisible in its submerged green color, robust, and a dream to cast. This versatility allowed me to adapt swiftly based on swim availability and, more importantly, the fish’s location—essential elements in circuit water angling.
Flexibility
As mentioned earlier, the ability to respond promptly to what you observe or don’t observe is paramount. My kit is downsized significantly, with spare leads and food left in the van until I’m convinced I’m on fish. On busy circuit waters, being back on the barrow and moving faster down the path than the competition is vital.
Carp Spring Strategies: Marc cradles 30lb Common caught in two feet
Shallow Waters
As daylight hours extend, shallow areas become pivotal, especially if they receive the sun’s first rays. Cold-blooded creatures seek warmth, enhancing their eyesight, senses, and metabolism. These areas are remembered by the carp, as it’s their neighborhood. Shallow regions receive much of my attention, allowing me to react to visual signs of activity.
Zig Rigs
In spring, shallower water warms quicker than deep, dark water. Zig rigs are crucial for several reasons:
1. They enable fishing in the water column where the fish are, avoiding the futility of presenting baits too far below or above them.
2. As their senses awaken from the winter cold, fish are more likely to accept a piece of Goo’d up foam in their hazy vision.
3. Zig rigs facilitate swift responses to showing fish without worrying about presentation issues in leftover winter debris or new weed growth.
Kiana Goo on a Zig Rig
Singles
Fishing with singles or employing minimal baiting has proven successful in landing big fish. With their senses slowly recharging, exploiting their adapting eyesight and heightened sense of smell/taste is crucial. They aren’t after large quantities of food at this stage.
Spinner RIgNaked Chod Rig
Excluding zigs, I use only two rigs in spring, both featuring pop-ups. Employing the Heli-Safe and Naked Chod system allows me to switch between the two presentations quickly without the need for leadcore or tubing.
My preferred rigs are Naked Chods for depths over three feet, ensuring presentation, stealth, and consistency with big fish. The second rig is an adapted spinner rig for depths under three feet, suitable for fishing close to snags and/or up island shelves, with an adjusted top bead for a softer drop.
Scaley Mirror caught just 3ft below the surface
In summary, prioritize mobility and reactivity. Opt for bright, enticing singles—be it Goo’d up zigs or pop-ups presented in areas where the fish want to be. Being right in front of them is undoubtedly the key in spring.
The Importance of Location: This article primarily focuses on Carp fishing in cold water, but the principles can be applied throughout the year.
The two most crucial elements for successful angling are timing and the importance of location. Even with the best bait and rigs, without being in the right place at the right time, your efforts may be futile.
Locating carp during the colder months can be challenging. Several factors can either work in your favor or against you. These include the size of the lake, stock, depth, climate, angling pressure, bait restrictions, club or syndicate rules, and the ever-present factor of “time”. All these factors can either increase or decrease your chances of getting bites.
Keeping things as simple as possible is essential. Here are five basic rules I follow for winter fishing:
Observation
Listening
Feeling
Tight Lines and Angles
Pre-Baiting
Observation:
Staying alert and keeping a keen eye out is crucial! Even a minor sighting can contribute to a larger understanding. Look for the obvious signs – shows, bubbling, and cleared areas that indicate fish activity. Also, pay attention to what others are catching, as fish tend to stay localized, meaning they won’t move far if they’re comfortable.
Listening:
As we transition into Autumn and the clocks adjust, so do the patterns of carp showing. It seems that the lake comes alive after dark. Although it’s challenging to see the shows in the dark, our hearing tends to compensate for the lack of vision, making us more attuned to the slightest sounds. Sometimes, it can be beneficial to not set up before dark (unless there’s obvious evidence), and let the carp reveal their location. By walking around and listening for shows, you can gain an advantage.
Feeling:
Using a bare lead on a braided line rod, you can feel the areas of the lake bed that the fish visit regularly. It’s not about clean, bumpy gravel areas. It’s about soft, clean, odorless silty areas rich in naturals.
Once you find these zones, the carp won’t be far away. Also, when it’s cold and the fish start to group together, casting around with a light lead can help you feel it drop through the layers and locate the carp in higher stocked venues. A few casts in each swim as you walk around the lake might just lead you to bump into one on the way down, revealing their location.
Tight Lines and Angles:
Fishing a reasonable distance out into the lake with tight lines can not only provide a chance of a bite but also give you an indication if the carp are moving around. If they are, you’ll receive liners, allowing you to bring your rig in and recast shorter. If the liners continue, repeat the process until they stop. It’s a simple, old-fashioned method, but it works!
Pre-Baiting:
When all other strategies fail and you need a reliable backup, consider consistently baiting one or two areas, this always provides the chance to fish in spots that have been baited before.
I’m not suggesting massive amounts, I’m referring to a frequent but small quantity. The birds and fish will provide all the information you need about your baited spot. If birds are continuously diving in that area, the bait is still present, and you haven’t had any bites from the fish. Conversely, fizzing and a change in feel on the spots will indicate that they are being visited.
Importance of location: I’m convinced that after three or four visits you start to form an image of where the fish are located, if you start to receive regular bites from a specific area, keep trying your luck, if it’s not broken don’t fix it! But trust your instincts and confidence is crucial, for pinpointing the right location. Once found, the fish can often be caught.
In January, I embarked on a small campaign on a local club ticket water, which I estimate is 6 to 7 acres, with a large population of fish, varying depths and high pressure. There’s a 45lb plus common in there, which can be like finding a needle in a haystack. So, location was crucial. I took all my factors into account and saw another angler catch it. I was sure due to the time of year it wouldn’t move far as it was content there. I started to fish in that area, when I could get in there. And sure enough…. The rest is history…. 45lb 15oz of pristine UK Common.
Enjoy your winter campaigns folks, catch a big one! ~ Jim Chisnall
Rules for Catching a Big Carp: Scott Sweetman excels in precision fishing, directing his efforts toward a specific fish. In this guide, he elaborates on his methodology for identifying particular carp. A seasoned angler with a knack for pursuing coveted big fish, Scott Sweetman predominantly structures his fishing pursuits around targeting these extraordinary carp that capture our dreams. Discover his six essential guidelines for honing in on the majestic rulers of your selected water.
1 – Choose the Target and Fishing Location
When zeroing in on a target fish, I consider several key factors in deciding where and what to fish for, with the primary focus being on the carp itself. I seek distinctive qualities, such as its age, appearance, size, or the unique characteristics of the lake it inhabits. This might include opting for a less-frequented, sparsely stocked lake, an aged park lake, or a vast windswept pit. My goal is to pinpoint something that sets that particular fish or group of fish apart.
For me, the pursuit is not solely about going after the largest carp available; I find equal satisfaction in fishing for a visually appealing mid-30lb carp as I do in the pursuit of a massive 50-pounder. As long as both the lake and its inhabitants continue to inspire and motivate me, I consider my fishing endeavors a success.
2 – Swim Selection
Choosing the right swim is undeniably crucial when targeting specific carp. Old carp often adhere to familiar patterns, and a retrospective analysis of their past captures can provide valuable insights, allowing you to identify specific areas to focus on during particular times of the year. This strategic approach significantly tips the odds in your favor for catching that elusive carp.
A compelling illustration of this strategy occurred when I was fishing a compact, weedy, and snaggy lake, where the carp faced heavy pressure and proved challenging to catch. Observing the frequent presence of most of the lake’s stock, including the target fish, in the snags, revealed that these seasoned fish had a preferred corner they rarely strayed from.
The lake presented a unique dynamic, offering the opportunity to almost handpick the ‘A team’ by targeting specific areas. One particular carp I sought after, named ‘Shoulders,’ consistently appeared in a neglected corner. Although rarely seen on the bank, this end of the lake had witnessed the majority of his captures. Undertaking a mission in this overlooked section, I successfully landed him just a few feet from the bank, weighing in at 40lb 10oz, nearly a year from his last capture, once again from the same swim.
The key takeaway: never underestimate the potential of neglected swims when engaged in targeted fishing.
3 – Tackle
Choosing the right tackle is of utmost importance in the pursuit of large carp. I opt for the most robust equipment that I can confidently use, selecting reliable components that consistently perform. Securing every bite becomes imperative when targeting big carp, necessitating a strategic approach.
For the mainline, I prefer Sub Braid whenever possible, providing maximum strength while ensuring exceptional accuracy and sensitivity to every ‘drop.’ In situations where braid is not permitted, I turn to 20lb Touchdown, offering ample strength for the task.
If the fishing venue allows, I always incorporate Kable Leadcore, approximately 1 meter in length, enhancing strength and reliability. This is always paired with a Heli Safe, presenting a significant advantage in fishing rotary-style and facilitating the release of the lead when necessary. The ability to drop the lead can often make the difference between losing or successfully landing a fish—a critical factor when targeting specific fish species. Notably, the Heli-Safe comes with a practical sleeve option, allowing for lead retention when not required. In most scenarios, I prefer the reassurance of knowing that the lead can be ejected as needed.
I prefer lightweight leads to minimize disturbance, typically opting for around 1.5oz. In this setup, I use extended hooklinks and Kamakura X hooks, known for their razor-sharp points and robust gauge, instilling me with the utmost confidence.
All the tackle Scott uses conveniently fits into a compact storage solution, specifically a small Compac. His rig essentials include Kamakura Wide Gape X hooks, 15lb IQ2 line, and a few additional pieces of equipment.
Scott’s favored rig involves a clever modification, featuring a piece of silicone that extends the ‘D,’ providing enhanced movement for both the hook and the bait.
4 – Bait
The role of bait in carp targeting is substantial, often serving as a pivotal element in angling success and a key factor in enticing your desired fish. Pre-baiting or consistently introducing bait to the lake can significantly tilt the odds in your favor, particularly when establishing a productive spot. Maintaining a steady supply of bait can yield consistent results, with larger carp often succumbing to this strategic approach.
Reflecting on the past decade, the majority of my target fish have been lured by baited areas, frequently in overlooked and neglected zones.
In the summer of 2021, I discovered a promising spot at Flint—a highly weedy bay that had been largely ignored despite its historical success. Observing carp activity in the weed, I embarked on a campaign by first raking a fishing spot just large enough for one rod. I initiated the baiting process with a mix of hemp and approximately a kilogram of 16mm Krill. Subsequent baiting sessions throughout the week contributed to the spot’s expansion.
Hemp and Boilie, perfect for pre-baiting before your sessions.
Using this method, I successfully landed several fish over the following weeks, including a notable 45lb common, all by fishing with a single rod in this secluded spot within the weed. Baiting in this manner allowed the fish to feed confidently without the presence of lines in the water. When I would drop in for a night of fishing, bites were often immediate.
This approach not only instills confidence in me as an angler but, crucially, fosters the carp’s trust in the baited spot. I consistently seek and exploit such opportunities in my angling pursuits—identifying fruitful spots, baiting the area for a week or two, and then returning to capitalize on the established feeding zone. Although these spots may not endure for extended periods, they often yield the capture of several fish in just a few trips, even in sparsely stocked pits.
One rod was all that was needed.45+ slipping up on the rod above, over a pre-baited spot up against the weed.
5 – The Numbers Game
In the pursuit of large carp, I employ a couple of distinct approaches. One involves patiently waiting it out in well-known swims or areas that have historically yielded big catches, even if it means accepting a lower overall catch rate. However, this tactic positions me favorably to land my target fish.
The other strategy, which I predominantly employ based on my available time and personal style, is to engage in the numbers game. Essentially, this means aiming to catch as many carp as possible. Personally, I believe that consistent catches bring me closer to the desired ones. It assures me that my rig and bait are effective, boosts my confidence, and tips the odds in my favor.
This one taken with the biggest mirror in the lake, a memorable brace from an ultra low stock pit.
As you progress and deplete the stock, there comes a time when you start doubling up on captures, with the main target fish becoming more accessible. During such phases, I’m inclined to shift towards waiting it out in known big fish swims, anticipating that one crucial bite. However, especially when starting on a new lake, my primary focus is on catching as many carp as possible.
By actively engaging with the fish, changing swims, and consistently getting bites on lakes where a successful season might only yield 4 or 5 carp, achieving that quantity or more significantly enhances the likelihood of eventually landing the specific ones you desire.
6 – Mindset
Maintaining the right mindset and mentality plays a crucial role in targeting large and elusive carp, especially when fishing in lower stocked lakes where bites can be infrequent.
Consistently adhere to what you know works best; it’s counterproductive to start making changes during periods of inactivity, a common aspect of fishing in less populated venues.
Recognize that success won’t happen every time you cast your line, but let this drive you even harder. The key is to stick to rigs and bait that instill confidence, emphasizing the importance of placing them in the right spot at the right time. Pursuing big carp is a captivating journey, and the satisfaction of netting that elusive specimen is unparalleled.
