Basics

CARP FISHING BASICS

To get started -you will need:
RODS: med - med/heavy action rods at least 6 1/2 - 7 foot in length
REELS: preferably the type with a baitrunner function, ie. 2 seperate drag systems. We prefer the Shimano 4500 baitrunner and a Pinnacle version.
LINE: 10-20 lb test line
TACKLE: assortment of free sliding sinkers 1/4 - 2 oz We prefer 1 oz variety egg sinker. split shot sinkers. size 4 - 8 extra strong hooks, swivels, and beads.
MISCELLANEOUS: banksticks, bite alarms, chair, net, camera!!, and lots of anticipation for huge fish.

BAIT: Carp are omnivorous (both plant and animal) feeders. Carp will feed at all heights, but are most readily taken on or near the bottom. Excellent baits include canned corn (do not use in trout waters), field corn or maize, bread, nightcrawlers, chick peas, and an assortment of homemade baits such as boilies.

GROUNDBAIT: Groundbaiting is strategic chumming or pre-baiting. One should groundbait their selected spot at least one or two days before they actually begin fishing, and should bait an area about half the size of a tennis court. The first type of groundbait is corn. Corn can be scented with flavors such as vanilla, molasses, cream, strawberry, and tutti-frutti. Corn can be thrown by hand, with a slingshot, or by a throwing stick. The other type of groundbait consists of corn and a combination of dry baking items such as corn meal, bran, bread crumbs, or oatmeal. A flavor is usually added as well. The mixture can be wetted and thrown into your area in softball-sized balls.

METHOD: Begin by baiting your area again. Maintain a low profile. Carp are easily spooked. Hook bait directly onto hook, or onto a hair rig(the preferred method). Cast into your prebaited area, and then prop your rods on banksticks or forked sticks so that your rods lie parallel to the water and facing your bait. Engage the baitrunner function on your real or leave your drag at a loose setting so the fish will not feel that much tension and you can hear a screaming run. Also, you might lose your rod. When a carp does takes or runs with your line, hook the fish as soon as possible with a solid hookset. Then the fun begins as the fish heads for the depths. After 5-10 minutes of fighting the fish, try to safely land the fish, take some beautiful photos, and release them to fight another day.

There are more complicated methods to catching large carp, but this system above is a good start to your developing your own system.