Fishing for carp
The carp is one of the most adaptable fish in the country. With its distinct appearance, long life span and one-time reputation as being un-catchable, the carp remains popular with anglers who have refined specialised techniques for catching this unique fish.
Where and when to fish for carp
First introduced to the UK in the early 1300's, today carp flourish in almost every river, canal and lake in the country - from small village ponds to the largest, most powerful rivers.
Generally night-time is the preferred feeding time for carp during the summer months, and because of this night fishing is both hugely popular and productive.
A year round pursuit
Although traditionally a summer sport, carp fishing is now practised 12 months of the year - although winter fishing can be slow going as low water temperatures lower the carp's metabolism and activity is limited.
How to fish for carp
The carp can be caught with most normal coarse angling methods and techiniques, but the desire to catch the biggest carp in the land has put carp fishing tackle development at the forefront of the tackle trade. Since the 1940's, specialist big carp fishing has developed a huge array of rods, reels, bite alarms and literally thousands of accessories and baits.
Appearance
Carp come in the 'common' (totally scaled), 'mirror' (sparsely scaled) and 'leather' (no scales) varieties. Large individuals are normally unique in scale pattern and body shape making them easily identifiable.
Did you know...?
Carp were initially introduced by monks as a food source.
Individual fish may get caught a number of times during their long life spans and become recognisable and even given nicknames by anglers.
A carp will have a personality of its own. Certain fish may be 'friends' with other specific fish and often be seen swimming together.
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