Carp Talks

2010-05-02T07:59:00.001-05:00

So why does no one like to fish for Carp? The media (sub question - why do most people take the media as fact) has been playing up the invasion of the Chinese Carp and how it will ruin the ecosystem, because there are no natural predators. While this may be true, we-humans have many tools at our disposal to remove these fish, but it makes better news if we just sit around and cry about it.

Here in Illinois we have many native species of Carp and they are a blast to try and catch. More for the simple aspect of landing them, as often they will simply let go of the hook just before landing them. It can be tricky to hook a Carp, due to their lip structure and more times than not you think they are hooked when in fact they are not.

The best way to fish for Carp is with a 6' medium to stiff rod, with at least 100 yards of 10-15lb test line. Number 2-6 hooks seem to set best depending on the size of the fish. Worms, Corn and Dough Balls are the best bait.

Carp are best fished in stalking mode. Be careful to stay at least 5-10 feet away from the shore line and be very, very quiet. You can spot Carp most of the day and season rolling on the surface and jumping. Simply cast your bait within 5 feet of where you last sighted one and wait (5 minutes tops, then look for another one). Leave your bail open and DO NOT use any weights. Once you see the line move, give it ONE quick snap pull to set the hook, then keep the line taunt until landing. Don't try to land Carp to soon or lift them from the water by pole and line alone, as they will get a sudden surge of energy and snap your line. I usually drag them on shore, then grab them by hand. Removing a well set hook can be tricky and pliers help in the endeavor.