25.5.09

Carp Fishing Baits

An important part of any carp fishing tackle package are the baits you choose. Without the right bait, you may not catch any fish, even if your gear is the best!

So which baits should I use when Carp fishing? There is no clear right or wrong answer to what you bait your hook with, but there are a few solid baits I have always had on the end of my rods and reels.

Corn. This should be a part of everyone's tackle and gear. This old reliable bait has been around forever, and can catch all sizes of fish. While there are some fancy hair rigs now and chumming for the fish is very popular, just a few kernels on a smaller hook still works great. This stuff is also very cheap, and you can mix in some vanilla extract onto your corn too!

Worms (nightcrawlers). These have also been a staple of many fisherman for years. Live worms can catch more kinds of species than any other bait. Grab a decent sized hook and tie on a worm to your tackle, and you will get something to bite. I would vary the size of the worm, as big fish may want a full size one, when a smaller one can get by on just a piece of the night crawler.

Boilies. I have just gotten into trying these and do not know much. They are huge over in the UK, France, Germany, and the rest of Europe. It is more of the new school of fishing for these kinds of species. I am more used to the old fashioned stuff, but try these too!

Bread. Another simple one that just requires a hook and some weight to your gear. Be sure only to use the middle of the bread, not the crust, since this will cause it not to stick well.

Again, these are just my experiences, I am learning more about the reels, rods, baits, rigs, gear, tackle and so on every day. I hope to expand my carp fishing tackle more and get to go on some good trips as well.

14.5.09

Carp Fishing Reels

When it comes to Carp fishing tackle, an important aspect to consider is choosing your reel. Most reels are capable of catching trophy fish, but many are poorly made and lack qualities that are needed to land big trophies. There are many things to consider when choosing your gear and tackle.

First, a good carp reel should have a smooth drag that never sticks. This is key because the initial run from a big one. Reels should also have the ability to hold a couple hundred yards of line. Higher quality equipment tends to tangle less and leave less memory in the line. This is very important in helping avoid tangles in your rig.

While Carp fishing reels are only a small part of your gear, they are still a very important piece of equipment. It is hard to say which is the most important piece of tackle, such the sum of the parts is greater then each individual piece of gear. Overlook any one aspect, and the whole rig will suffer.

While I have not fished much for carp compared to other species, I am learning more by reading and experimenting every day I get on the water. I hope to be able take a fishing trip to Europe someday for these monsters. I have heard that France, Germany, England, and many other countries have great opportunities too. I think it is very important to try new waters and experiment with new equipment and tackle and rigs. This can help any fisherman get a new perspective on their techniques.

8.5.09

Carp fishing rods

When it comes to Carp Fishing Tackle, one of the most important parts are the rods. Without a fishing rod, you cannot catch a fish, this is simple, yet very true.

While my posts target all kinds of Carp Tackle, this post is specifically designed for the rod.

There a few schools of thought picking the right rigs for carp gear. The rods I prefer are somewhat long, 7 - 9 feet and have a good amount of cast ability to them. Normally I go with a medium - heavy action one. This gives the rigs a good mix of strength and flexibility.

Currently I have an 7.5 foot ugly stick that is a good rod. I have had this thing for 10 years and it has been used and abused by many fish. I also have stepped on this thing a lot too. You have to have strong tackle and gear when fishing for carp.

Some guys go with really long 12 foot rods and I have not tried this, but it could have it's advantages of long casting. These long things are just kinda awkward for me to handle.

However, it is mostly personal preference and for my carp fishing tackle I just like my gear to feel comfortable. I am by no means a great carper yet, but am learning everyday.