Easy Carp Fishing Tips

Carp is a common name given to a number of species of fish that vary widely in size and appearance. Most of the fishes belonging to this type are freshwater fishes, which means that they are found in lakes, rivers, ponds and other water bodies. A particular species of carp that we are all familiar with is the goldfish (Carassius auratus), an ornamental species found in aquariums. However, not all types of carps are that small and a big carp can weigh as much as 17 kg.

Did you know that the carp is not native to North America? This exotic species of fish, native to parts of Asia and Europe, was brought in from Europe during the late nineteenth century and released into several water bodies in North America to promote carp fishing as a sport. This endeavor was successful as today it has grown to be one of the most popular sports in the United States. Carp fishing is also popular in countries like Canada and Mexico and in other parts of Central America.

Carp Fishing Tips for Beginners
Research well to locate the water bodies where you are most likely to find a good catch. Before you visit a lake, river or any other water body, try to find as much information about it as possible.

Carp is a fish that is easily tempted by the bait and bites into it in no time but if it doesn't like what it bites into, chances are high that it would immediately spit it out. The trick to catch carp is to design the bait in such a way that once the fish bites into the bait, it is unable to free itself from it.

A great way to improve your chances of a catch is to pre-bait the area prior to fishing. Pre-baiting is nothing but introducing a few particles of the bait that you intend to use for fishing, in the area you want to fish. For example, if you are fishing using creamed corn as bait, then you can throw a few pieces of the corn on the water surface for a few days before the day you wish to go fishing. This technique helps because the fish begin to recognize the particular area where you spread the bait as a feeding area and so on the day you are fishing, they are less likely to think twice before biting into the bait that you have attached to the rig.

While fishing for carp, remember to use different types of baits such as corn, dough balls, worms, cheese, bread pieces or even homemade carp bait recipes can do the trick. You can even use bait flavors available in the market. A good idea is to dip the bait in orange juice because carps love the flavor. Also, using bright-colored baits can often help as it attracts the carp.

An important factor to consider while fishing for a big fish such as carp is the size and strength of the rod. Use a rigid rod that is made of a strong and durable material and is capable of supporting a minimum weight of 50 pounds.

Remember that carps are clever and so to outsmart them, you need to be clever too! Also, when it comes to rigs, using a hair rig is best recommended as it prevents the fish from spitting the bait, after it has been swallowed. Choose baits that are devoid of barbs to prevent the fish from spitting it out.

An interesting fact about carps is that unlike most other species of fish that are caught by a bait that is submerged in water, carps are caught by baits that float on the surface of water. This is because in nature, carps feed near the surface of water. Also, to make the bait appear as natural as possible, it is recommended that you use baits of different sizes. This way you can attract more fish.

Before you cast the hook for fishing, throw a few pieces of bait on the water surface to attract fish. Once the fish begin to show up and start feeding on the bait, it's time for you to cast the hook. However, remember not to cast the hook exactly at the spot where the fish are feeding as this might scare them. Instead, cast the hook a little distance away from the feeding area and then slowly bring it in place.

To know the exact spot where you have immersed the fishing line, attach a float to it. A float is made from a light material and floats on the water surface.

Once you have made a successful catch in a particular area, carefully make note of the exact spot so that you can come back for more fishing. This also applies if you have pre-baited an area.

If you land up with a big carp and find it difficult to handle, just use a dark-colored cloth to cover its eyes.

It is recommended that you wear gloves before removing the fish from the hook. Also, if you are fishing carp just for fun and do not intend to eat them, then release them carefully back into the water.

If you are truly serious about carp fishing, then it is best that you arrange for a boat and use it to try your luck on territories that others haven't been to before instead of fishing only from the banks of the river.

This was all about some carp fishing tactics and tricks for beginners. Hope you find them useful in landing a good catch on your next fishing trip. Good luck and have fun!