James RickardCarp--the international catch
September 19th 2007 00:17
If you believe everything you read, you’ll learn that carp are one of the most abundant fish in the world. Since carp are a garbage fish here in the States, I pretty well wrote them off until I ran across an article the other day. I didn’t learn anything new but, the pictures were nice! AND, it made me come out of the closet about one thing—I LOVE to fish for carp! Carp don’t have the big game fish status of other fish but those who discount the fish, probably never tried to catch one!
Originating in Asia several centuries before Christ, carp were brought into England during the 13th Century and finally introduced in North America during the 1800s. Carp quickly adapted to their new surroundings, often flourishing where other aquatic species failed to thrive.
Although carp are said to be quite tasty if harvested in clean water, I simply can’t bring myself to swallow a bite. Perhaps it’s having seen them scour the bottom for food or remembering the often brackish water they can inhabit. OR—maybe it’s has something to do with a weak stomach!
Despite my own obsession and the illusiveness of the species not withstanding, as a game fish, carp have never made it into the same class as perch or bass. Enjoying enormous popularity in Asian countries as well as some European locations, carp are viewed as wily adversaries that are hard to hook.
Carp can get quite big so, stout equipment is in order if one wishes to try their luck on these bottom feeders! Despite their lethargic demeanor, carp can be quite skittish and are easily spooked. Keeping this in mind, a strong, low visibility fluorocarbon leader is required. Varieties of carp run anywhere from less than a foot in length to a whopper like in the picture above!
Hooking a carp is often a matter of timing because you can often see the fish swim away with your bait and hook in its mouth. However, it’s imperative not to give into temptation and try and set the hook too soon because carp often pick up the bait and swim away without actually swallowing it. This is where anglers often fail because if the carp feels the slightest resistance on the bait, they will spit it back out in the blink of an eye! For this reason, some anglers use little or no weight as they go after the beast. Other tips are to try a weight about two feet from the hook, which should provide a little slack or to try an egg sinker a foot or more from the hook.
Carp are like garbage disposals so, bait is a matter of debate. I know whatever I suggest, someone will suggest something else! So—I’ll give you the advice that has worked for me.
First of all, forget about artificial baits. A carp contentedly feeding along the bottom, will allow artificial bait to pass by as if it was another fish. I haven’t had good luck using attractants either.
You probably have one of the best baits right in your cupboard. Break out that can of corn! That’s right—canned corn. You can usually use a #4-1/0 hook depending on the target and then a few kernels of corn. After that would have to be bread or corn flakes. Get either of them soggy and press them into a ball with your hook at the core of your creation. Night crawlers are your best bet for live bait. I’ve had more luck with corn, though. I’ve seen reports that crawlers and worms are more effective but I gotta do what works! Cheese, minnows, and commercial preparations also work to some extent.
Like I said, I live where carp aren’t real popular. However, they’re my obsession because they’re crafty, and a real fighter when hooked. If you hook one, you won’t soon forget it!
Until next time--watch yourself and watch your line!
*photo from carp-usa.info
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Comment by Michaelie
Flick Wit
Michaelie
Comment by Lilla
From The Home Front
Enviro Warrior
Dream Herald
Esoteric Bookshop
I remember we used to have them in the dam behind our place, years ago... and the local fishermen all called them the 'rabbits of the river...'
Do they taste good?
Lilla ...
Comment by MelissaA
Fun Facts
But forget carp, what do you know about cod? That seems to be all they eat over here apart from kippers.
Comment by Cibbuano
Hunt Famous
Orble Post of the Day
Fat Cult
Techbreak
Comment by James Rickard
unlucky_ fishermen.com
Angling Fish
Check this out...
I read about the bait, of all places, on the INTERNET!!! I tried it and it seemed to work better than the
nightcrawlers I was using so, I stuck with it! Corn also works pretty well for bluegill. I found that one out on my own but, I was just a kid. You know how kids are, maybe I did that by trial and error--I can't remember.
Comment by James Rickard
unlucky_ fishermen.com
Angling Fish
Check this out...
Do they taste good?
I've heard and read that they're good to eat but, I just can't swallow a bite. I get it in my mouth and that's it!
Comment by James Rickard
unlucky_ fishermen.com
Angling Fish
Check this out...
Do you have any idea what kippers cost over here???? Cod is coming soon. A book about cod came out a while back. Kind of dry in places and fascinating in others.
Comment by James Rickard
unlucky_ fishermen.com
Angling Fish
Check this out...