Live bait anglers are excellent sportsmen but fly fisherman will observe better preservation from the beginning.
Primarily, fly fishing is considered as not only the fastest growing sports or recreation but as one of the best type of conserving natural resources and also providing aquatic recreation.
Fly fishing is very simple when three things are right: you must have a appropriate rod; you have to match it with a line to learn the proper casting technique.
For folks who would really like some tips about fly fishing, here is a list of some pointers that would help anglers improve their fly fishing skills:
1. Material of the rod
For one of moderate means, and particularly for the beginners, hollow glass is advised since it would force less care than bamboo and will not take a set if improperly handled or stored.
2. Line
Your fly casting skill will not progress with a mismatched rod and line. About 99 times in a hundred, the troubled fly caster incorporates a line much too light to bring out the action of his rod.
It is absolutely necessary that on any given rod, the fly fisherman will be using the same proportion of a line for anything from tiny trout and bluegills to the most important sea fish.
In selecting the size line, anglers should get a C level, an HCH double-taper, or a GBF three-diameter. This alternative is predicated on the actual fact that a high percentage of fly rods bought these days are hollow glass, and that a nice majority of those work best with lines of these sizes, almost no matter length or weight.
3. The correct casting technique
In casting, it is vital to get about twenty feet of line out front. Anglers should always cast straight line.
You should avoid any destructive movements when you are on a faster mode even when trying to do so. What is best is that the angler is just calm and relax because taunt muscles will ruin his casting.
After you boil it all down, there should be no reason why you should not learn the fundamental principles just as easily as those that now enjoy fly fishing presently.
The best way to learn casting is to spend your day on the water with a master fisherman who is sufficiently qualified at casting.
Lessons learned on the water are the best tips you'll acquire anywhere in your quest for learning fly fishing.
About the Author
A must visit to Jim Woodall "Fly Fishing" website. A good information about learning fly fishing. Click Here ====> http://flyfishing.jwoodl.com/
Ice Fishing Activity For Families by Bennett Kalio
It's great to fish in the summer time when the air is warm and the lake is calm. There are fishermen, though, who cannot wait for winter and the lake to freeze solid. Ice fishing is a sport that many folks enjoy, extending the fishing season to year-long pleasure. What's more, ice fishing is a great family activity. What makes ice fishing so appealing to families is that the sport is not just about catching fish. Grins, gleeful chuckles, and playing in the snow are all not unusual occurrences while out on the ice.
Those reasons are some of the few that even folks who hate fishing get hooked on this winter activity. If you would like to try a day of ice fishing with your loved ones, there are some things to bear in mind. Ice fishing is mostly an all day activity. Get out on the ice early after breakfast to take advantage of the best hours. If you are counting on bringing home a handful of perch for a meal, then being prepared with your lines in the water when the sun starts to rise is best. Fish have a tendency to bite in the early morning or later on in the afternoon, depending on the species.
The period in between fishing sometimes finishes up being playtime for families instead of hours spent reeling up the fish. Pack a good lunch and some nibbles, as the unpolluted air and activity will stir up appetites. Plenty of finger foods and lots of water to drink serve the purpose nicely. It's a great idea to avoid bringing lager with you as alcohol and cold don't mix well. Alcohol can lower your body temperature and the chill in the air makes it harder to feel the effects. You will finish up going overboard without realizing you have had way too much to make the safe drive home. Staying warm while ice fishing is a complete must. The open-air location will generally carry a good breeze, so windproof clothing should be your initial consideration. Lots of layers beneath warm sweaters will trap the heat and keep you feeling toasty. Good boots and mitts of solid construction are best, and even better are those that are water resistant. Another accessories you will need are a warm hat and shades.
Bright sunlight reflects on the white snow and ice, which can create havoc on your eye and vision. Many ice anglers who don't wear sun shades return home and realize they cannot see well for over a half hour. These outfitters wish to ensure you enjoy your day as much as practicable and will set you up with all you need for hours of delight. The workers will be very pleased to respond to your questions and give you tips about how to fish.
Have a fun time, but do not blast a radio to upset the peace and serenity of other anglers. Don't throw waste on the ice either and have a care for the environment. Use the metal spoon provided to keep your holes from freezing over. Additionally, if you are not going to eat the fish you catch, handle them softly and practice catch and release. Being outside for a couple of hours in cold temperatures will hit you hard after you get into a warm automobile. When you get home, you can possibly feel exhausted. After a day of ice fishing, ordering a pizza for dinner could be a gift from God.
Those reasons are some of the few that even folks who hate fishing get hooked on this winter activity. If you would like to try a day of ice fishing with your loved ones, there are some things to bear in mind. Ice fishing is mostly an all day activity. Get out on the ice early after breakfast to take advantage of the best hours. If you are counting on bringing home a handful of perch for a meal, then being prepared with your lines in the water when the sun starts to rise is best. Fish have a tendency to bite in the early morning or later on in the afternoon, depending on the species.
The period in between fishing sometimes finishes up being playtime for families instead of hours spent reeling up the fish. Pack a good lunch and some nibbles, as the unpolluted air and activity will stir up appetites. Plenty of finger foods and lots of water to drink serve the purpose nicely. It's a great idea to avoid bringing lager with you as alcohol and cold don't mix well. Alcohol can lower your body temperature and the chill in the air makes it harder to feel the effects. You will finish up going overboard without realizing you have had way too much to make the safe drive home. Staying warm while ice fishing is a complete must. The open-air location will generally carry a good breeze, so windproof clothing should be your initial consideration. Lots of layers beneath warm sweaters will trap the heat and keep you feeling toasty. Good boots and mitts of solid construction are best, and even better are those that are water resistant. Another accessories you will need are a warm hat and shades.
Bright sunlight reflects on the white snow and ice, which can create havoc on your eye and vision. Many ice anglers who don't wear sun shades return home and realize they cannot see well for over a half hour. These outfitters wish to ensure you enjoy your day as much as practicable and will set you up with all you need for hours of delight. The workers will be very pleased to respond to your questions and give you tips about how to fish.
Have a fun time, but do not blast a radio to upset the peace and serenity of other anglers. Don't throw waste on the ice either and have a care for the environment. Use the metal spoon provided to keep your holes from freezing over. Additionally, if you are not going to eat the fish you catch, handle them softly and practice catch and release. Being outside for a couple of hours in cold temperatures will hit you hard after you get into a warm automobile. When you get home, you can possibly feel exhausted. After a day of ice fishing, ordering a pizza for dinner could be a gift from God.
About the Author
For a complete information, visit icefishing for a variety of valuable articles on other forms of fishing.
Colorado Freshwater Fishing Destinations by Joe Laing
You may be traveling to Colorado for the mountain views, but did you know there's a wealth of fishing to be found there, as well? Colorado freshwater fishing is the perfect activity for RV camping fans, because it blends the thrill of "catching the big one" with an unforgettable mountain camping experience. Follow these tips to find the best Colorado freshwater fishing destination for your next RV trip.
Red Feather Lakes: North of Fort Collins, trout fishing enthusiasts will find a wonderful collection of small lakes well worth fishing. The Red Feather Lakes area is famous for easy access to lake trout, and was the site of the 2007 National Fly Fishing Championships.
Get ready to experience Dowdy, Parvin, Bellaire and West Lakes, all open to the public. Trout fishing at each offers unique thrills and challenges in a gorgeous mountain setting.
Lake Pueblo: With sixty miles of shoreline and a mild climate, Lake Pueblo offers almost everyone the chance to fish for trout, bass, channel cat, bluegill, and walleye. Well-known as an angler's paradise, this South Central Colorado lake is sure to please the most demanding lake-fishing diehards. There are numerous RV campgrounds operated there by the State Parks Department.
Blue River: Flowing above and below Lake Dillon about sixty miles west of Denver, the Blue River will thrill fly fishing enthusiasts with trophy-size rainbow trout. If fly fishing is your sport, you definitely deserve a trip to the Blue River. This is your chance to fish for rainbow, brown and brook trout while surrounded by some of the prettiest mountain views possible. Tiger Run RV Resort is one highly-recommended RV campground in the area.
Rio Grande River: The legendary Rio Grande River flows through the San Juan Mountain Range and Rio Grande National Forest, boasting enormous brown trout just waiting for cagey fly fishermen. Near the towns of South Fork and Del Norte, in particular, you'll find government leases on private land that allow you easy access to the Rio Grande.
North Delaney Butte: Three bodies of water boasting great trout fishing can be found near Walden in Northern Colorado. North Delaney Butte Lake, East Delaney and South Delaney Butte Lakes form a fisherman's paradise that will tempt you to stay for weeks. North Delaney is actually one of a handful of "Gold Medal" rated trout lakes in the state. By the way, the North Platte River winds through the canyons in this area and also offers tremendous trout fishing possibilities.
There are areas for wakeless boat fishing on these lakes, and those willing to do a little hiking can also find quiet bank or bellyboat fishing areas. Plan to fish primarily for brown trout here, but also be on the lookout for rainbow and cutthroats. A nice RV campground is available on the shores of nearby Lake John, also known for its trophy trout fishing.
There are hundreds of great freshwater fishing destinations in Colorado, and most of them have comfortable RV campsites nearby. As you're putting your vacation plans together this year, why not schedule a trip to the Rockies for some serious fishing action? To keep your trip very affordable, gather a few of your fishing buddies and split the cost of RV rental, food and campground fees.
You're not going to want to come in off the water once you've learned the joys of fishing in Colorado. Why not find out why thousands of RV campers drop a hook in the Centennial State each year?
About the Author
This article was written by Joe Laing of El Monte RV, your source for RV rentals throughout the United States. Be sure to check out the Monty's Musing blog for more RV Vacation Ideas
Red Feather Lakes: North of Fort Collins, trout fishing enthusiasts will find a wonderful collection of small lakes well worth fishing. The Red Feather Lakes area is famous for easy access to lake trout, and was the site of the 2007 National Fly Fishing Championships.
Get ready to experience Dowdy, Parvin, Bellaire and West Lakes, all open to the public. Trout fishing at each offers unique thrills and challenges in a gorgeous mountain setting.
Lake Pueblo: With sixty miles of shoreline and a mild climate, Lake Pueblo offers almost everyone the chance to fish for trout, bass, channel cat, bluegill, and walleye. Well-known as an angler's paradise, this South Central Colorado lake is sure to please the most demanding lake-fishing diehards. There are numerous RV campgrounds operated there by the State Parks Department.
Blue River: Flowing above and below Lake Dillon about sixty miles west of Denver, the Blue River will thrill fly fishing enthusiasts with trophy-size rainbow trout. If fly fishing is your sport, you definitely deserve a trip to the Blue River. This is your chance to fish for rainbow, brown and brook trout while surrounded by some of the prettiest mountain views possible. Tiger Run RV Resort is one highly-recommended RV campground in the area.
Rio Grande River: The legendary Rio Grande River flows through the San Juan Mountain Range and Rio Grande National Forest, boasting enormous brown trout just waiting for cagey fly fishermen. Near the towns of South Fork and Del Norte, in particular, you'll find government leases on private land that allow you easy access to the Rio Grande.
North Delaney Butte: Three bodies of water boasting great trout fishing can be found near Walden in Northern Colorado. North Delaney Butte Lake, East Delaney and South Delaney Butte Lakes form a fisherman's paradise that will tempt you to stay for weeks. North Delaney is actually one of a handful of "Gold Medal" rated trout lakes in the state. By the way, the North Platte River winds through the canyons in this area and also offers tremendous trout fishing possibilities.
There are areas for wakeless boat fishing on these lakes, and those willing to do a little hiking can also find quiet bank or bellyboat fishing areas. Plan to fish primarily for brown trout here, but also be on the lookout for rainbow and cutthroats. A nice RV campground is available on the shores of nearby Lake John, also known for its trophy trout fishing.
There are hundreds of great freshwater fishing destinations in Colorado, and most of them have comfortable RV campsites nearby. As you're putting your vacation plans together this year, why not schedule a trip to the Rockies for some serious fishing action? To keep your trip very affordable, gather a few of your fishing buddies and split the cost of RV rental, food and campground fees.
You're not going to want to come in off the water once you've learned the joys of fishing in Colorado. Why not find out why thousands of RV campers drop a hook in the Centennial State each year?
About the Author
This article was written by Joe Laing of El Monte RV, your source for RV rentals throughout the United States. Be sure to check out the Monty's Musing blog for more RV Vacation Ideas
The Lure of Pike Fishing by Mark Jenner
Back in 1653 Izaak Walton described the pike as the 'the tyrant of the rivers, or the fresh-water wolf, by reason of his bold, greedy, devouring disposition'. The pike has been subject of many folk tales over the centuries and the disappearance of many dogs, farm animals and even humans has been attributed to a monster pike said to inhabit the local lake or river. It is this air of sinister mysticism surrounding the pike that provides its attraction to the sports angler.
It is Britain's biggest native freshwater fish and ranks also as one of North America's leading quarry. Catching the big one needs stronger rods, larger nets and clever tactics. Holding up this heavy beast for the camera makes the hunt worthwhile. Taking the hooks from the pike's mouth require strong equipment and a stronger nerve. A slip of the hand can result in deep and painful wounds that are easily infected. Many pike fisherman use a steel gauntlet of the type worn by knights of old, such is the danger when unhooking this fearsome beast.
But it is this fear and respect that attracts us to angling for pike. I think back to my last visit to the canal, where it joins the river not far from where I live. It was close to dawn when I left my house, cold and very still. There was no frost but the mist was thick. When I got to the water I found a good spot that would allow me to cast upstream almost to the canal lock where there was a deep pool and also downstream to the far bank around thirty yards away.
I wandered along the bank peering through the gloom hoping to see signs of active pike. The surface of the canal was like a glassy mirror, broken only by the sporadic splash or ripple as a bait fish darted here and there. Something was feeding! Seeing the water like this urges you on, you want to make haste and present your baits to the unseen foe. This desire to challenge and best the majestic fish is what makes us want to seek out bigger and stronger pike.
I quickly tackled up, attaching a still frozen half herring dead-bait to my treble hooked trace. Casting upstream about twenty five yards to the spot where I was walking just minutes earlier, I could just see the splash as the bait hit the water. I thought the line would follow the bait as it sank but something seemed odd. Puzzled, I lifted the rod to take in the slack, only the feel the line go taught. I struck quickly and sure enough, a fish was on and I realized that it did not want to be simply drawn towards the net. After three strong runs including a worrying spell downstream I drew the monster pike over the lip of my oversized landing net. This was my best pike, at just over twenty pounds. Not really a monster maybe, but a success for me. I know that there are much bigger pike living in these waters, and they provide the lure to bring me back again and again!
About the Author
Mark Jenner is an angling writer who lives in the North of England. He writes a blog that looks at detailed aspects of sport fishing tackle including pike fishing and carp fishing rigs and equipment.
Carp Fishing Tips - 10 Reasons Why You Should Fish The Margins
Over the years I have been carp fishing both in France and the UK I have lost count of the number of carp I have caught fishing the margins. I would go as far as to say it is my number one choice of feature on any water. The less pressured the venue to closer in I would chose to fish. So here are ten of my reasons why, when you turn up at a new venue in France you should not over look the margins.
1. Largest Feature: The margins on any lake are the largest feature. Stretching all around the perimeter and that of any islands they offer a natural barrier where food will accumulate either by wind action or water movement. Food will fall or be thrown in the margins, and aquatic and semi-aquatic life will often lay eggs, hatch larvae or nest in the vegetation lined area of a lake.
2. Fish are Drawn to Feed in the Edge: Pleasure anglers nearly always fish close in, bait close in and throw spare bait in the edge; this in turn attracts fish and conditions them to patrol the margins of a lake. How often have you seen walkers, children etc feed the ducks in the edge? It stands to reason that any food thrown into a lake will also attract and be eaten by the fish. This includes carp, and is all the more true in Spring with flood water entering lakes and the run off from the land being important.
3. The Margins Offer Shelter: The margins of lakes often have overhangs & covering vegetation. Overhangs can on occasions stretch back several feet under the bankside, due to water erosion. Shaun Harrison proved this during a video shoot in December, when he banked a 20lb mirror on inches from the bank. This area, will offer a natural trap for food and shelter for fish species. Most margins are also rich in vegetation such as reedbeds, trees, lilies etc. These plants naturally grow along a margin where they are carried by the wind and currents. They offer a larder for the fish and help reinforce why margins are such a good place to fish.
4. Easy to Bait Up: It is far easier to bait up in the margin. You can do this with a simple catapult for pellets and particles or by hand for boilies. I remember in the 80's when I was fishing all sorts of particles to provide a blanket of bait, that the furthest we could fish was the catapult range of our bait. Fishing close-in increases the variety of baits you can use and avoids the use of baitboats, spods or feeders.
5. Easy to Fish Accurately: The ease of baiting means you can fish more accurately. Accuracy is so important in carp fishing. The margins are far easier to explore with a marker float, and once you have baited an area, to get your rig bang on the money. If weather conditions are against you, you have no worries about reaching your spot. Often a simple under hand swing is all that is needed.
6. Easier to land the fish: Fishing at long range is always more awkward and full of danger. However hooking a carp under the rods top gives you far more control. You are straight away in command. I have on occasions scooped a big lump into the net before it has realised its been hooked. Even if the first rush can be full blooded and brutal, the amount of line in the water and the reduced chance of getting snagged means that fish are more often than not easier to land when hooked close in.
7. Don't need big reels and long cast rods: Fishing the margins precludes the need for stepped up heavy, long distance carp rods. You can use softer more forgiving gear, lighter leads and smaller reels. You don't need big pits to cast 100 yards plus. Some of my friends still fish on the pin...now theres pleasure in fishing!!!
8. Far Margin is often quieter: If you chose to fish the far margin, and how many of us have ignored that sexy overhang on the far bank or the reed bed opposite? Then you will almost certainly be fishing the quieter part of the lake. Probably and area that is less accessible or inaccessible to other anglers or dog walkers. On waters that see a bit of pressure the carp will move away from this and the far margin is often an area they will hold up in.
9. Most people overlook this area of the lake: Curiously enough, despite all the reasons I have evoked above, the simple fact is most people don't fish the margins. I remember a question from and angler once 'Do you have any a long range swims on your lake?- because I've got rods that can cast 120 yards plus'. This type of question amazed me and my reply was that he'd be better off fishing where the fish were.
Equally even if anglers fish a close-in rod it is often at 20 odd yards, to me the margins are just that, inches off the bank.
10. If you're Too Drunk to Cast Out, Chuck it in the Edge: Finally the great Rod Hutchinson once said in 'A Carp Strikes Back', if you are too drunk to cast out, chuck it in the edge!!!
Gareth Watkins
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gareth_Watkins
1. Largest Feature: The margins on any lake are the largest feature. Stretching all around the perimeter and that of any islands they offer a natural barrier where food will accumulate either by wind action or water movement. Food will fall or be thrown in the margins, and aquatic and semi-aquatic life will often lay eggs, hatch larvae or nest in the vegetation lined area of a lake.
2. Fish are Drawn to Feed in the Edge: Pleasure anglers nearly always fish close in, bait close in and throw spare bait in the edge; this in turn attracts fish and conditions them to patrol the margins of a lake. How often have you seen walkers, children etc feed the ducks in the edge? It stands to reason that any food thrown into a lake will also attract and be eaten by the fish. This includes carp, and is all the more true in Spring with flood water entering lakes and the run off from the land being important.
3. The Margins Offer Shelter: The margins of lakes often have overhangs & covering vegetation. Overhangs can on occasions stretch back several feet under the bankside, due to water erosion. Shaun Harrison proved this during a video shoot in December, when he banked a 20lb mirror on inches from the bank. This area, will offer a natural trap for food and shelter for fish species. Most margins are also rich in vegetation such as reedbeds, trees, lilies etc. These plants naturally grow along a margin where they are carried by the wind and currents. They offer a larder for the fish and help reinforce why margins are such a good place to fish.
4. Easy to Bait Up: It is far easier to bait up in the margin. You can do this with a simple catapult for pellets and particles or by hand for boilies. I remember in the 80's when I was fishing all sorts of particles to provide a blanket of bait, that the furthest we could fish was the catapult range of our bait. Fishing close-in increases the variety of baits you can use and avoids the use of baitboats, spods or feeders.
5. Easy to Fish Accurately: The ease of baiting means you can fish more accurately. Accuracy is so important in carp fishing. The margins are far easier to explore with a marker float, and once you have baited an area, to get your rig bang on the money. If weather conditions are against you, you have no worries about reaching your spot. Often a simple under hand swing is all that is needed.
6. Easier to land the fish: Fishing at long range is always more awkward and full of danger. However hooking a carp under the rods top gives you far more control. You are straight away in command. I have on occasions scooped a big lump into the net before it has realised its been hooked. Even if the first rush can be full blooded and brutal, the amount of line in the water and the reduced chance of getting snagged means that fish are more often than not easier to land when hooked close in.
7. Don't need big reels and long cast rods: Fishing the margins precludes the need for stepped up heavy, long distance carp rods. You can use softer more forgiving gear, lighter leads and smaller reels. You don't need big pits to cast 100 yards plus. Some of my friends still fish on the pin...now theres pleasure in fishing!!!
8. Far Margin is often quieter: If you chose to fish the far margin, and how many of us have ignored that sexy overhang on the far bank or the reed bed opposite? Then you will almost certainly be fishing the quieter part of the lake. Probably and area that is less accessible or inaccessible to other anglers or dog walkers. On waters that see a bit of pressure the carp will move away from this and the far margin is often an area they will hold up in.
9. Most people overlook this area of the lake: Curiously enough, despite all the reasons I have evoked above, the simple fact is most people don't fish the margins. I remember a question from and angler once 'Do you have any a long range swims on your lake?- because I've got rods that can cast 120 yards plus'. This type of question amazed me and my reply was that he'd be better off fishing where the fish were.
Equally even if anglers fish a close-in rod it is often at 20 odd yards, to me the margins are just that, inches off the bank.
10. If you're Too Drunk to Cast Out, Chuck it in the Edge: Finally the great Rod Hutchinson once said in 'A Carp Strikes Back', if you are too drunk to cast out, chuck it in the edge!!!
Gareth Watkins
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gareth_Watkins
The Best Times For Fishing - Figuring Out the Best Fishing Times
Were you aware of the fact that some times are better than other for fishing? I know, I'm happy anytime I get the opportunity to wet a line just like you, but there are things that make fishing better or worse, and those things have nothing to do with the fisherman. In this article I'm going to discuss the factors that affect fish, so we can determine the best times for fishing.
The first of the factors that I want to discuss so that we can figure out the best times for fishing is the water temperature. Small changes in water temperature can cause fish to not only move from one area to another, but can also cause them to change water depths. As a very general rule water temperatures above 80 degrees and below 50 degrees tend to make fish less active, so fishing in these conditions certainly wouldn't be the best.
Many times fish will move along "breaks" in the surface temperature, where warmer and colder water meets. Remember, fish are cold blooded and are heavily impacted by temperature changes in their surroundings. Fifty to sixty five degrees is considered "optimal" for many fish species.
Paying attention to the weather, or more specifically barometric pressure changes, will also help us figure out the best fishing times. When the weather changes the barometric pressure changes, and fish detect these changes with their lateral lines (that run along the sides of most fishes bodies). This is why old timers say the fishing is good right after it rains, because when it rains a barometric front has passed through the area changing the barometric pressure.
Another factor that determines the best times for fishing is the moon, or more specifically the phases of the moon. The phase that the moon is in has an amazing impact on the feeding activity of fish, so this is certainly a factor in determining the best fishing times. For example, did you know that fish are much more active during new moon phases?
As anglers our goal should be to learn the simple rules surrounding these factors so that we can be on the water fishing at "the most opportune" times, thus tipping the odds into our favor. Is it necessary to study water temperature, the weather, and the moon for 6-20 hours? Not at all, but learning the basics can make you a much more effective angler.
Trying to time your fishing trips so that one or all of the above factors are in your favor will make a huge difference in the number of bites you get. Sometimes it's not about you as an angler so much, as the conditions that you're fishing in. I know from experience that the above conditions play a huge role in determining the best times for fishing.
Trevor Kugler is co-founder of JRWfishing.com and an avid angler. He has more than 20 years experience fishing for all types of fish, and 15 years of business and internet experience. He currently raises his three year old daughter in the heart of trout fishing country...Montana!
Get a FREE eBook About The Weather, Moon, & Fishing - http://www.jrwfishing.com/signup.html
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Trevor_Kugler
The first of the factors that I want to discuss so that we can figure out the best times for fishing is the water temperature. Small changes in water temperature can cause fish to not only move from one area to another, but can also cause them to change water depths. As a very general rule water temperatures above 80 degrees and below 50 degrees tend to make fish less active, so fishing in these conditions certainly wouldn't be the best.
Many times fish will move along "breaks" in the surface temperature, where warmer and colder water meets. Remember, fish are cold blooded and are heavily impacted by temperature changes in their surroundings. Fifty to sixty five degrees is considered "optimal" for many fish species.
Paying attention to the weather, or more specifically barometric pressure changes, will also help us figure out the best fishing times. When the weather changes the barometric pressure changes, and fish detect these changes with their lateral lines (that run along the sides of most fishes bodies). This is why old timers say the fishing is good right after it rains, because when it rains a barometric front has passed through the area changing the barometric pressure.
Another factor that determines the best times for fishing is the moon, or more specifically the phases of the moon. The phase that the moon is in has an amazing impact on the feeding activity of fish, so this is certainly a factor in determining the best fishing times. For example, did you know that fish are much more active during new moon phases?
As anglers our goal should be to learn the simple rules surrounding these factors so that we can be on the water fishing at "the most opportune" times, thus tipping the odds into our favor. Is it necessary to study water temperature, the weather, and the moon for 6-20 hours? Not at all, but learning the basics can make you a much more effective angler.
Trying to time your fishing trips so that one or all of the above factors are in your favor will make a huge difference in the number of bites you get. Sometimes it's not about you as an angler so much, as the conditions that you're fishing in. I know from experience that the above conditions play a huge role in determining the best times for fishing.
Trevor Kugler is co-founder of JRWfishing.com and an avid angler. He has more than 20 years experience fishing for all types of fish, and 15 years of business and internet experience. He currently raises his three year old daughter in the heart of trout fishing country...Montana!
Get a FREE eBook About The Weather, Moon, & Fishing - http://www.jrwfishing.com/signup.html
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Trevor_Kugler
Winter Carp Bait pop up tricks for more Fish
Many anglers use their conventional tactics and rigs in winter and cold spring conditions without accounting for changes in carp behaviours due to the cold and carp being cold-blooded. So here are some proven tricks to try for more big winter and spring fish...
First off carp metabolism is much reduced which means less movement and feeding and less effective rates of digestion and so on. Carp and cold water is really all about the conservation of energy as this is central to these creatures survival. Although this produces changes in carp behaviours that can make them harder to catch, there are many things you can do to help maximise the opportunities and chances you have in winter fishing.
Probably the major factor in winter fishing in the consistent application of a digestible attractive bait designed specifically for these conditions. Believe me when I say I totally agree that instant attractor baits work very well in winter, but there are far more complex effects on carp that occur with many of these flavour substances than most anglers even imagine.
Many of the best flavours are extremely sophisticated and many are potently bioactive in effect like many top nutritional value baits. And having fished through the period years ago when Richworth Tutti Fruiti baits seemed to be the only winter bait used by the masses, it soon becomes clear that when used enough, such baits can become over-used to the degree they tend to catch predominantly smaller fish and the less wary carp! (This is very different to using a single bait fishing approach where such baits are not introduced en masse as free baits as well.)
Wrapping pop-up baits in paste of a completely different recipe base mix and flavour attractor combination is a well proven trick all year round. The chopping up of baits and trimming of pop-up baits for instance is nothing new and anyone who used luncheon meat and spam 30 years ago will have realised the effect of this on warier fish! (I used to soak mine in aniseed oil for winter.)
Many angler use the now infamous so-called snowman rig basically use of a sinking and buoyant bait on a hook rig so that one counteracts the weight of the other and much more importantly (and often missed,) the weight of the hook itself. Years before snowmen rigs, the use of a hook bait with a high fat content when used with a sinking boilie made rigs more effective especially in winter as being more buoyant, they helped counteract the weight of the hook, and assist baits in flying up into the mouth better among other effects. In fact after years of using tinned meats the incorporation of minced cheap tinned spam and luncheon meats has proven very effective in winter as they are so soluble and act more as attractive paste when used on a conventional boilie rig with boilies or particles etc.
My question is how many carp anglers use half a small pop-up bait to help balance a half a brazil nut or tip a hair full of chopped nuts or hemp in winter? Carp are notorious in winter even more so than usual, for choosing smaller sized food items and baits to satisfy their energy requirements. I find it so ironic that it is popular to use a chopped-down pop-up bait in winter when many of use have done it for decades. I suppose like anything else, eventually if something works the masses will get to hear of it so why not here?
Why not try this: add a liquid food such as Minamino, Nutramino, Liquid liver, liquid yeast or Feedstim XP to a 50 percent proportion of genuine Robin Red. Try this as your pop-up bait soak and apply it to all your free baits for winter (why not boost Robin Red based pellets too?) You might use one of the many Robin Red ground baits available alongside your hook baits.
Ground baits are not purely the domain of small carp as many carp anglers incorrectly assume; far from it! Bread based ground baits are very effective in cold water for wary big carp and you do not have be yet another conventional slave to hemp at all; the diversity of fantastic homemade and readymade winter ground bait and feed options are amazing! (Perhaps try testing your PVA products until you find ones you yourself like the taste and smell of that really do melt effectively without leaving a nasty residue in low temperature water; such little things make all the difference...)
Pop-up baits can include those fake baits too made of plastic and rubber substances etc and these obviously are used by many copy-cat anglers to tip-off there other baits. But like any other popularised method, copying eventually becomes counter-productive and doing things in new and alternative ways will always sustain more consistent success!
Personally I would far prefer to be using a buoyant pop-up bait made with 30 percent de-fatted green-lipped mussel extract (available from Ccmoore), plus added squid liver extract powder, mineral salts and fish-digestible vitamin supplements, spirulina powders and European fermented shrimp extract, krill and salmon extracts for example, than a piece of rubber sweetcorn; even if it is trimmed to be different to normal and glows in the dark! Read on for details of some very unique bait secrets ebooks...
By Tim Richardson.
Author: Tim F. Richardson Tim F. Richardson Source: http://ezinearticles.com/ Added: March 4, 2009
First off carp metabolism is much reduced which means less movement and feeding and less effective rates of digestion and so on. Carp and cold water is really all about the conservation of energy as this is central to these creatures survival. Although this produces changes in carp behaviours that can make them harder to catch, there are many things you can do to help maximise the opportunities and chances you have in winter fishing.
Probably the major factor in winter fishing in the consistent application of a digestible attractive bait designed specifically for these conditions. Believe me when I say I totally agree that instant attractor baits work very well in winter, but there are far more complex effects on carp that occur with many of these flavour substances than most anglers even imagine.
Many of the best flavours are extremely sophisticated and many are potently bioactive in effect like many top nutritional value baits. And having fished through the period years ago when Richworth Tutti Fruiti baits seemed to be the only winter bait used by the masses, it soon becomes clear that when used enough, such baits can become over-used to the degree they tend to catch predominantly smaller fish and the less wary carp! (This is very different to using a single bait fishing approach where such baits are not introduced en masse as free baits as well.)
Wrapping pop-up baits in paste of a completely different recipe base mix and flavour attractor combination is a well proven trick all year round. The chopping up of baits and trimming of pop-up baits for instance is nothing new and anyone who used luncheon meat and spam 30 years ago will have realised the effect of this on warier fish! (I used to soak mine in aniseed oil for winter.)
Many angler use the now infamous so-called snowman rig basically use of a sinking and buoyant bait on a hook rig so that one counteracts the weight of the other and much more importantly (and often missed,) the weight of the hook itself. Years before snowmen rigs, the use of a hook bait with a high fat content when used with a sinking boilie made rigs more effective especially in winter as being more buoyant, they helped counteract the weight of the hook, and assist baits in flying up into the mouth better among other effects. In fact after years of using tinned meats the incorporation of minced cheap tinned spam and luncheon meats has proven very effective in winter as they are so soluble and act more as attractive paste when used on a conventional boilie rig with boilies or particles etc.
My question is how many carp anglers use half a small pop-up bait to help balance a half a brazil nut or tip a hair full of chopped nuts or hemp in winter? Carp are notorious in winter even more so than usual, for choosing smaller sized food items and baits to satisfy their energy requirements. I find it so ironic that it is popular to use a chopped-down pop-up bait in winter when many of use have done it for decades. I suppose like anything else, eventually if something works the masses will get to hear of it so why not here?
Why not try this: add a liquid food such as Minamino, Nutramino, Liquid liver, liquid yeast or Feedstim XP to a 50 percent proportion of genuine Robin Red. Try this as your pop-up bait soak and apply it to all your free baits for winter (why not boost Robin Red based pellets too?) You might use one of the many Robin Red ground baits available alongside your hook baits.
Ground baits are not purely the domain of small carp as many carp anglers incorrectly assume; far from it! Bread based ground baits are very effective in cold water for wary big carp and you do not have be yet another conventional slave to hemp at all; the diversity of fantastic homemade and readymade winter ground bait and feed options are amazing! (Perhaps try testing your PVA products until you find ones you yourself like the taste and smell of that really do melt effectively without leaving a nasty residue in low temperature water; such little things make all the difference...)
Pop-up baits can include those fake baits too made of plastic and rubber substances etc and these obviously are used by many copy-cat anglers to tip-off there other baits. But like any other popularised method, copying eventually becomes counter-productive and doing things in new and alternative ways will always sustain more consistent success!
Personally I would far prefer to be using a buoyant pop-up bait made with 30 percent de-fatted green-lipped mussel extract (available from Ccmoore), plus added squid liver extract powder, mineral salts and fish-digestible vitamin supplements, spirulina powders and European fermented shrimp extract, krill and salmon extracts for example, than a piece of rubber sweetcorn; even if it is trimmed to be different to normal and glows in the dark! Read on for details of some very unique bait secrets ebooks...
By Tim Richardson.
Author: Tim F. Richardson Tim F. Richardson Source: http://ezinearticles.com/ Added: March 4, 2009
Fishing is Fun
There are many ways to fish; on the river bank, sitting on a rock with rope for crab fishing or even out in the middle of a sea on a deep sea fishing boat catching shark!
I remember as a child going fishing on a river bank, it isn’t like going to Disney land, but the buzz you get from when you catch your first fish could resemble the same feeling of rushing through the air on a rollercoaster. It was a great feeling, and it is a buzz that many people today strive for every time they go fishing.
I have friends where the first thought that came to their mind when thinking about fishing is to sit on a river bank, bored, just watching the float bobbing up and down in the water waiting for a miracle. They would rather be shopping for shoes.
I have seen the same friends later on tell me their boyfriends were into fishing so they gave it a go and went along with them. Did they end up with their own rod? Yes, they did. Simply because they realised that fishing can actually be fun, even for girls who prefer to shop.
Fishing isn’t always about how many fish you are going to catch or who is going to catch the biggest fish. It is also about doing something where you can forget everything that is going on around you and just enjoy the peaceful environment and relax.
As well as this, fishing can also be about having a day out with friends having a few laughs and who is going to catch the biggest fish and have a giggle at the one who catches the smallest.
Experienced fishermen will know all the places to go on a deep sea fishing boat. If the fish are not biting in one area, then they know the spots to go to save any disappointment when going out to catch fish.
One of the great things about deep sea fishing is that you are more likely to catch fish that you won’t find on the river bank. So for first timers especially, the excitement of what you are going to catch and the fun you have with friends whilst doing it will more than likely want you coming back for more.
The guys who go out fishing on river banks with the big umbrellas and waterproof clothing don’t go there to catch colds, they go there because they enjoy the relaxed environment and the thought of going home and telling their friends what they caught.
Teenagers who have nothing more to do than hang around the streets, have found a new hobby by going out with their friends fishing. It is just great to be able to do something with friends, where there is a little competitiveness involved and just have a good time fishing.
So the next time someone talks to you about fishing, just remember, there is a reason why people fish, and more often than not it is a lot more than just hanging around bored waiting for a bit. It’s actually fun.
Article Source: http://www.wisdomextract.com
Nicky Bullimore has been writing articles for a number of years on various different topics. For more information about Deep Sea Fishing Trips, visit www.pastimeprincess.com.
I remember as a child going fishing on a river bank, it isn’t like going to Disney land, but the buzz you get from when you catch your first fish could resemble the same feeling of rushing through the air on a rollercoaster. It was a great feeling, and it is a buzz that many people today strive for every time they go fishing.
I have friends where the first thought that came to their mind when thinking about fishing is to sit on a river bank, bored, just watching the float bobbing up and down in the water waiting for a miracle. They would rather be shopping for shoes.
I have seen the same friends later on tell me their boyfriends were into fishing so they gave it a go and went along with them. Did they end up with their own rod? Yes, they did. Simply because they realised that fishing can actually be fun, even for girls who prefer to shop.
Fishing isn’t always about how many fish you are going to catch or who is going to catch the biggest fish. It is also about doing something where you can forget everything that is going on around you and just enjoy the peaceful environment and relax.
As well as this, fishing can also be about having a day out with friends having a few laughs and who is going to catch the biggest fish and have a giggle at the one who catches the smallest.
Experienced fishermen will know all the places to go on a deep sea fishing boat. If the fish are not biting in one area, then they know the spots to go to save any disappointment when going out to catch fish.
One of the great things about deep sea fishing is that you are more likely to catch fish that you won’t find on the river bank. So for first timers especially, the excitement of what you are going to catch and the fun you have with friends whilst doing it will more than likely want you coming back for more.
The guys who go out fishing on river banks with the big umbrellas and waterproof clothing don’t go there to catch colds, they go there because they enjoy the relaxed environment and the thought of going home and telling their friends what they caught.
Teenagers who have nothing more to do than hang around the streets, have found a new hobby by going out with their friends fishing. It is just great to be able to do something with friends, where there is a little competitiveness involved and just have a good time fishing.
So the next time someone talks to you about fishing, just remember, there is a reason why people fish, and more often than not it is a lot more than just hanging around bored waiting for a bit. It’s actually fun.
Article Source: http://www.wisdomextract.com
Nicky Bullimore has been writing articles for a number of years on various different topics. For more information about Deep Sea Fishing Trips, visit www.pastimeprincess.com.
Fashionable Fishing
We know if we look at history, fishing didn’t initially start out as a sport. Fishing was a part of hunting for food to survive.
Fishing is a practice that is currently dated back to around 40,000 years ago. Historians know this because of the fish bones and cave paintings that have been discovered including tomb scenes and drawings by the Egyptians.
Even today, fishing is relied upon to put food on the tables as well as natives who still fish as a part of their survival diet; however, it doesn’t stop there.Although fishing started out as a hunter’s strategy for survival, it has now developed into a form of recreation as well as a competitive sport.
Kids have also latched onto fishing. Many parents would hope that their children would take up one sport or another but probably didn’t expect fishing to be one of those sports.I know many families who have tried to get their sons into football or rugby, but the sport didn’t interest their kids at all, however, surprisingly, when it comes to fishing, they love it!
Fishing is something boys can do with their friends; they can have fun and even camp out overnight whilst they compete against each other to see who is going to catch the most and biggest fish.
Fishing is not only a great for recreation; it is also great to teach kids focus and as well as that, it also offers a kind of respect for the environment we live in as well as having an appreciation for nature.
Fishing also offers a ‘buzz’. As soon as you feel a tug on your rod, the challenge is then set before you to reel in what has taken a bite. At that point, you cannot see what you have caught as it is still under water. Your friends also spot that you have caught something and wait in anticipation to see what you are about to reel in.
Is it going to be a big one, is it a small one or is it just an old boot? Whatever it is, the ‘buzz’ effect has kicked in. You feel the thrill and excitement that all that waiting patiently is finally going to pay off. This is what brings the fun factor in fishing and why even kids can enjoy this outdoor recreational event.
This is another reason why fishing as a sport or for recreation never goes out of fashion. Fishing has a lot to offer and that doesn’t just mean the fish that might bite on the end of your rod.Also, fishing isn’t restricted to our local fishing banks. There are a variety of ways to fish, including deep sea fishing.
If your kids have got into fishing, then imagine what excitement a day trip on a deep sea fishing boat with their friends would bring. That really would make their day, especially as a birthday gift where all their friends could come along and experience fishing in the deep waters.
The great thing about deep sea party boat fishing is that you don’t have to buy all the equipment before you step on the boat, more often than not, everything you need is provided on the boat. So what a better gift could you give a kid who is into fishing?
Regardless of what type of fishing you enjoy, the act is not stuck in the ice ages as they say, it is still fashionable to fish, and will be for years to come.
Article Source: http://www.wisdomextract.com
Nicky Bullimore has been writing articles on various topics for a number of years. For more information about Deep Sea Fishing and party boat fishing trips, please visit www.pastimeprincess.com
Fishing is a practice that is currently dated back to around 40,000 years ago. Historians know this because of the fish bones and cave paintings that have been discovered including tomb scenes and drawings by the Egyptians.
Even today, fishing is relied upon to put food on the tables as well as natives who still fish as a part of their survival diet; however, it doesn’t stop there.Although fishing started out as a hunter’s strategy for survival, it has now developed into a form of recreation as well as a competitive sport.
Kids have also latched onto fishing. Many parents would hope that their children would take up one sport or another but probably didn’t expect fishing to be one of those sports.I know many families who have tried to get their sons into football or rugby, but the sport didn’t interest their kids at all, however, surprisingly, when it comes to fishing, they love it!
Fishing is something boys can do with their friends; they can have fun and even camp out overnight whilst they compete against each other to see who is going to catch the most and biggest fish.
Fishing is not only a great for recreation; it is also great to teach kids focus and as well as that, it also offers a kind of respect for the environment we live in as well as having an appreciation for nature.
Fishing also offers a ‘buzz’. As soon as you feel a tug on your rod, the challenge is then set before you to reel in what has taken a bite. At that point, you cannot see what you have caught as it is still under water. Your friends also spot that you have caught something and wait in anticipation to see what you are about to reel in.
Is it going to be a big one, is it a small one or is it just an old boot? Whatever it is, the ‘buzz’ effect has kicked in. You feel the thrill and excitement that all that waiting patiently is finally going to pay off. This is what brings the fun factor in fishing and why even kids can enjoy this outdoor recreational event.
This is another reason why fishing as a sport or for recreation never goes out of fashion. Fishing has a lot to offer and that doesn’t just mean the fish that might bite on the end of your rod.Also, fishing isn’t restricted to our local fishing banks. There are a variety of ways to fish, including deep sea fishing.
If your kids have got into fishing, then imagine what excitement a day trip on a deep sea fishing boat with their friends would bring. That really would make their day, especially as a birthday gift where all their friends could come along and experience fishing in the deep waters.
The great thing about deep sea party boat fishing is that you don’t have to buy all the equipment before you step on the boat, more often than not, everything you need is provided on the boat. So what a better gift could you give a kid who is into fishing?
Regardless of what type of fishing you enjoy, the act is not stuck in the ice ages as they say, it is still fashionable to fish, and will be for years to come.
Article Source: http://www.wisdomextract.com
Nicky Bullimore has been writing articles on various topics for a number of years. For more information about Deep Sea Fishing and party boat fishing trips, please visit www.pastimeprincess.com
Tips for successful Carp Fishing in Sumer and Winter
Summer Talk to any angler and they can expound for hours on the joys of carp fishing, whatever the time of year, but summer has got to be a favourite time. It’s tranquil, relaxing and exciting all at the same time. Here are some tips to help make your carp fishing even more enjoyable.
• Summer is a good time to try out new baits, rigs and ideas of your own
• If you are a regular at a particular water, study the fish movements to see if you can establish any patterns that might give you a clue as to where to fish on future occasions
• Look for obvious feeding grounds, for example, beneath overhanging trees and amongst weed beds
• Carp are very active in the summer months, enjoying the sun as much as we do, so eventually they will give themselves away
• Try choosing a bait which is similar to the natural foods that are around in abundance at this time of year, such as fruit and nuts
Winter
The once plentiful natural food will disappear during winter, so carp will try to gain as much weight as possible to help them survive the harsh weather. As with any cold blooded animal, low temperatures will slow them down a great deal, so it’s a good idea to locate the carp before you set up and start fishing.
As far as baiting is concerned, try to adopt the little and often approach, offering about 15-30 baits over a session. Loose feed these a couple at a time at regular intervals of about 30 minutes and try not to spread the bait around too much. As in the summer, it’s a good idea to try using bait which is similar in flavour to what is around naturally. Swan mussel and crayfish are still active at this time of year so if your venue contains these, try something like this.
About The Author
Dog Lane Fishery, near the village of Napton in Warwickshire, has a carp lake which responds well all year round to anglers looking to catch big fish. They have comfortable pegs and ample car parking. Visit their website now by clicking on http://doglanefishery.co.uk/
• Summer is a good time to try out new baits, rigs and ideas of your own
• If you are a regular at a particular water, study the fish movements to see if you can establish any patterns that might give you a clue as to where to fish on future occasions
• Look for obvious feeding grounds, for example, beneath overhanging trees and amongst weed beds
• Carp are very active in the summer months, enjoying the sun as much as we do, so eventually they will give themselves away
• Try choosing a bait which is similar to the natural foods that are around in abundance at this time of year, such as fruit and nuts
Winter
The once plentiful natural food will disappear during winter, so carp will try to gain as much weight as possible to help them survive the harsh weather. As with any cold blooded animal, low temperatures will slow them down a great deal, so it’s a good idea to locate the carp before you set up and start fishing.
As far as baiting is concerned, try to adopt the little and often approach, offering about 15-30 baits over a session. Loose feed these a couple at a time at regular intervals of about 30 minutes and try not to spread the bait around too much. As in the summer, it’s a good idea to try using bait which is similar in flavour to what is around naturally. Swan mussel and crayfish are still active at this time of year so if your venue contains these, try something like this.
About The Author
Dog Lane Fishery, near the village of Napton in Warwickshire, has a carp lake which responds well all year round to anglers looking to catch big fish. They have comfortable pegs and ample car parking. Visit their website now by clicking on http://doglanefishery.co.uk/
Take your kids fishing..by Dan Bryant
Take Your Kids Fishing There is an old adage that if you give a man a fish he can eat for a day, but if you teach him to fish he can eat for a lifetime.
The same is true that if you take a kid fishing he can enjoy it for the day, but if you teach a kid to fish he can enjoy it for a lifetime.
When was the last time you took your son or daughter fishing and really took the time to teach them the right way to fish? When was the last time you took your kid’s friends on a fishing trip and taught them how to fish? In this day of self gratification and immediate reward, we often neglect to instill in our younger generation the heritage of hunting and fishing for food that helped expand the frontiers of our country.
In many cases these were skills learned from Native Americans who taught our ancestors how to live off the land. Maybe we don’t need to live off the land today, but the fun and recreation of landing a big fish still excite most outdoorsmen and pump adrenaline to the body.
Teaching the skills of fishing also instills in our younger generation the need to protect and preserve the heritage as well as the natural resources that allow these recreational pursuits. Many of our younger generation are being taught to preserve the land for its beauty and natural resources but not how to interact with nature without damaging that beauty and natural resource. With spring having finally arrived many fishing enthusiast are already planning that trout fishing, bass fishing or surf fishing trip.
Plan a trip with your kids and their friends and spend the time to truly teach them how to fish. Let them experience the thrill of that native trout jumping from the stream, while fighting them on a light tackle fly rod. Take the time to teach them how to land a fly in a teacup at ten paces, even if you can’t. If you are a bass fishing enthusiast, take your kids bass fishing and teach them not only how to fish, but boating safety and common courtesy on the water. Teach them how to pick the right lure or bait for the conditions you are fishing in. Teach them how to cast to the brush pile without getting tangled.
Teach them the value of catch and release. If you are a surf fishing fanatic like me, take them to the beach and put a rod in their hands. Let them feel the tug of a blue fish or puppy drum on the rod. Teach them how to cast a surf rod and to tie the knots for rigging lines. Show them how to care for the equipment. Get your kids away from the video games and television and let them learn the self esteem that can be gained from successfully fishing with friends and family. Take a kid fishing and you will find that you enjoy teaching them as much as you enjoy fishing yourself.
About The Author
Dan Bryant is an avid surf fisherman who spends as much time as possible on the Outer Banks of NC as possible. Visit his website at http://www.saltysport.com
Whellchair Accesible Fishing in Devon
Where can you fish if you're life is tied to a wheelchair? Your disabled and you want to go Carp fishing. I think we may have found just the place for you. Fishing is one of today's most popular recreational activities. Fishing also represents one of the easiest activities to adapt to people's individual needs. Fishing has no boundaries to open up the great outdoors for, people with disabilities and is the best alternative for persons who cannot practice active exercises.
This outdoor pastime invigorates the body and also lifts the spirit of the person. Hence, disabled persons, retired people and those recuperating from illness keenly seek wheelchair accessible fishing facilities. Wheelchair accessible fishing in beautiful surroundings at http://www.creedylakes.com/ Carp fishing in beautiful surroundings in Devon UK. Two prolific spring fed estate lakes set amid mature established woodland providing a superb setting for those wanting peace, scenery, good company and good fish. Accessible ground floor apartment.
For those who face daily the battles associated with a disabling condition, the combination of readily accessible sites and the low-impact nature of pleasure fishing combine to form a perfect way for the disabled to interact with nature while still retaining the necessary safety factors. Because mobility-impaired persons often find the most difficulty in using sites, accessibility levels are based on the needs of disabled persons, especially those who use wheelchairs.
The most common form of recreational fishing is done with a rod, reel, line and hooks, and any one of a wide range of baits. Fishing competitions where fishermen compete for prizes based on the total weight of a given species of fish caught within a predetermined time.
Commercial Carp Fishing .. by Luke
Now most of you frequent readers of the forums and articles will probably consider me as more of a big carp hunter than a comercial fisherman. But yes, I do enjoy a good day out catching smaller carp. So, getting to the whole comercial fishing for carp thing. How do you go about it ?
Well first of all you need to know the following basics:-
1... Size of carp at fishery
2... Best baits
3... Tackle for the job
4... And most of all the RULES
So lets go through each of these in a little more detail:
1... First lets start with the size of carp at the fishery. Now most bailiffs are happy to let you know the size of carp in the lakes, but there are some including Mr. John Wilson himself, who like to keep that element of mystery to the equation. But generally you can say the fish grow to the size of the lake. So if it is a small lake you can expect smaller fish. I mean think about it, a 40lb carp isn't going to be very happy in a lake less than 1 acre in size, unless of course its Royal Berkshire...lol. Also, knowing the size of fish links in with appropriate tackle needed.
2... Secondly, its nice to know what bait they like to see most. If they are used to seeing pellet, and react well to pellet, you are best of fishing with pellet (this is a general rule of thumb, for more experienced comercial fishery anglers, presenting an alien bait to the fish can be a killer tactic if presented and loose fed appropriately and accurately). Most fishery websites provide records of past catches and baits caught on.
3... Now, coming to tackle. Personally I think the idea of comercial fishing is having a fun day out. So to make it fun, the appropriate tackle plays a big part in it. For example, if the average size fish is only 5-8 pounds, you dont really want 15lb line with 3lb tc rods (assuming of course you are ledgering). Otherwise the fish aren't going to stand much chance and it wont give you that special feeling and rush of adrenaline you get when playing a fish. Assuming the fish are 5-8lbs in weight, you want something around 2 1/4lb tc with 8-10lb line. Thats my personal preference anyway !
So you have got your knowledge of the lake, you know the rules and you have the right tackle, so now what ???????
Well you have to choose a swim, basically one you like the look of or one where you know there is a special feature, anything which makes you feel more confident in catching. From personal experience I can tell you its a HORRIBLE feeling sitting in a swim where you have no confidence in catching. Baiting up is an important part as well. You need to keep the fish in your swim and eager to feed, so you dont overfeed them. "little and often" is a saying I like to go by. Every 10-15 minutes throw in a handfull of loose feed. This will keep the fish in your swim, hopefully long enough for them to find your hookbait !
The rest takes care of itself really, so I hope this helps you to cath more fish and have more fun !
Thanks for reading ! Luke
Well first of all you need to know the following basics:-
1... Size of carp at fishery
2... Best baits
3... Tackle for the job
4... And most of all the RULES
So lets go through each of these in a little more detail:
1... First lets start with the size of carp at the fishery. Now most bailiffs are happy to let you know the size of carp in the lakes, but there are some including Mr. John Wilson himself, who like to keep that element of mystery to the equation. But generally you can say the fish grow to the size of the lake. So if it is a small lake you can expect smaller fish. I mean think about it, a 40lb carp isn't going to be very happy in a lake less than 1 acre in size, unless of course its Royal Berkshire...lol. Also, knowing the size of fish links in with appropriate tackle needed.
2... Secondly, its nice to know what bait they like to see most. If they are used to seeing pellet, and react well to pellet, you are best of fishing with pellet (this is a general rule of thumb, for more experienced comercial fishery anglers, presenting an alien bait to the fish can be a killer tactic if presented and loose fed appropriately and accurately). Most fishery websites provide records of past catches and baits caught on.
3... Now, coming to tackle. Personally I think the idea of comercial fishing is having a fun day out. So to make it fun, the appropriate tackle plays a big part in it. For example, if the average size fish is only 5-8 pounds, you dont really want 15lb line with 3lb tc rods (assuming of course you are ledgering). Otherwise the fish aren't going to stand much chance and it wont give you that special feeling and rush of adrenaline you get when playing a fish. Assuming the fish are 5-8lbs in weight, you want something around 2 1/4lb tc with 8-10lb line. Thats my personal preference anyway !
4... Finally, we come to the rules. The most important part of the day. Be sure to check for licence regulations, rod limits, net requirements etc. The worst possible is to turn up at the fishery and be told to leave for something is wrong. Only happened to me once, but there was no signs for rules anyway.
So you have got your knowledge of the lake, you know the rules and you have the right tackle, so now what ???????
Well you have to choose a swim, basically one you like the look of or one where you know there is a special feature, anything which makes you feel more confident in catching. From personal experience I can tell you its a HORRIBLE feeling sitting in a swim where you have no confidence in catching. Baiting up is an important part as well. You need to keep the fish in your swim and eager to feed, so you dont overfeed them. "little and often" is a saying I like to go by. Every 10-15 minutes throw in a handfull of loose feed. This will keep the fish in your swim, hopefully long enough for them to find your hookbait !
The rest takes care of itself really, so I hope this helps you to cath more fish and have more fun !
Thanks for reading ! Luke
Fish Feeding Stimulant
CC Moore has introduced there new Feed Stim XP which they believe to be the ultimate liquid fish feeding stimulant and recent field tests seem to confirm this.Feed Stim xp is designed to be used on all bait items from bollies to groundbait and has had some spectacular results on some of the UK's most demanding lakes.
Feed Stim works be stimulates the fish's chemo receptors to encourage the fish to feed. The natural enhancer's are combined with a group of essential amino acids, in such a way that guarantees to supply fish with the nutrients they need but may find difficult to find in their natural environment.
It will not melt PVA and it creates a prolonged boost of attraction when used with method mix, pellets and groundbait mixes.
It is sold in screw top bottles and is priced at £11.99 for 250 ml and £38.99 for a litre.
for more detail visit http://www.ccmoore.com/
Sexing Carp
For most of the year distinguishing between male and female common carp is not straightforward, but there are a number of visible clues which can be used to make an educated guess.
As a general rule males are slimmer than females, but the actual body shape varies between genetic strains, and to an extent is a function of diet and exercise regime, so this can be difficult to ascertain with only a couple of fish in the bank at any one time.
The nature of the genital opening can also offer some clues as to the sex of a fish, as in males this is generally concave and not particularly noticeable, while females it is more noticeable, and even slightly protruding. While these two features combined can allow an educated guess, it is not generally possible to be certain about the sex of a carp outside the breeding season.
In the run up to spawning however, there are a number of physiological changes which result in externally visible differences between the sexes, for much of the year the males are generally slimmer, but in the weeks leading up to spawning the abdomen of the female carp becomes noticeably distended as the eegs are swelled ready for release. The genital opening also becomes distended, protruding from the body and looking like a small fleshy tube. Meanwhile, male carp usually develop tubercles, small raised lumps, most noticeable on the head and gill plates. At this time the sexes even feel different, with the females being slippery and the male feeling noticeably rough to the touch.
The final, and conclusive, piece of evidence is the release of the reproductive products, with females releasing eegs and the male releasing sperm.
After spawning the tubercles on the males quickly disappear, but the genital opening in the female can remain visibly distended for a short period, and having released all of her eegs have a flaccid, saggy abdomen for a few weeks.
But very soon they regain condition, and it becomes very difficult to tell them apart again .. until next year
High oil trout pellets
Carp fishing baits ... high oil trout pellets
Be careful what bait and Liquids you use when fishing for Carp, a lot of research is under way into how fish respond to baits with Hi Oil content typically Trout Pellets.
These pellets could contain up to 30% oil content depending on the size of pellet being used, the larger the pellet the higher the oil content.
The research is concentrating on the long term effect it has on their well being and this research is providing a strong case that these pellets can be in fact harmful to the fish; some fisheries in the uk are now considering banning baits with such high oil content.
In the last few years high oil pellets have become the trend on many waters as this is what fish farmers are feeding their stock on from fry upwards, fish soon recognized these oily pellets as a good food source. Anglers up and down the land soon wised up to this and day ticket waters across the country were being besieged with anglers using these high oil trout pellets, most anglers never gave a thought to what they were using for bait or the effects it may have on their quarry, and to be fair to them, all they were after was a bait that would catch fish and these oily pellets seemed to fit the bill perfectly, fish everywhere seemed to respond to them and anglers were happy as they were catching plenty of fish.
Gradually commercial venues got concerned about the level of oil that their fish where consuming and started to ban or restrict the amount of high oil pellets that anglers could use in a session.
The bait companies where quick to respond and started to manufacture low oil coarse pellets; these pellets are typically high in protein and come in a variety of sizes and colours. Fishmeal baits are now one of the favorite choices of the carp angler but flavors also now play a huge part Strawberry, Tuna, Maple and Chili to name but a few and some baits sound as if they are a culinary delight prepared by celebrity chefs.
I feel that a more sensible approach is needed, oily pellets are ok in moderation during the summer months when the fish are more active and can digest these pellets but come the colder months when the fish are less active opt for a more natural offering or a bait with more attraction than actual food content, our online bait shop offers a wide range of low oil pellets also liquids to enhance your baits, give them a try you will be amazed at their effectiveness.
http://www.pvaandpellets.co.uk/index.html
Sussex Carper is a dedicated angler who is committed to the welfare of fish and their habitat, he is a corporate sponsor of ECHO and has attended many courses on fish management, offering a wide range of pellets to sort all anglers with the essence on good nutrition view the range at www.pvaandpellets.co.uk/index.html
Be careful what bait and Liquids you use when fishing for Carp, a lot of research is under way into how fish respond to baits with Hi Oil content typically Trout Pellets.
These pellets could contain up to 30% oil content depending on the size of pellet being used, the larger the pellet the higher the oil content.
The research is concentrating on the long term effect it has on their well being and this research is providing a strong case that these pellets can be in fact harmful to the fish; some fisheries in the uk are now considering banning baits with such high oil content.
In the last few years high oil pellets have become the trend on many waters as this is what fish farmers are feeding their stock on from fry upwards, fish soon recognized these oily pellets as a good food source. Anglers up and down the land soon wised up to this and day ticket waters across the country were being besieged with anglers using these high oil trout pellets, most anglers never gave a thought to what they were using for bait or the effects it may have on their quarry, and to be fair to them, all they were after was a bait that would catch fish and these oily pellets seemed to fit the bill perfectly, fish everywhere seemed to respond to them and anglers were happy as they were catching plenty of fish.
Gradually commercial venues got concerned about the level of oil that their fish where consuming and started to ban or restrict the amount of high oil pellets that anglers could use in a session.
The bait companies where quick to respond and started to manufacture low oil coarse pellets; these pellets are typically high in protein and come in a variety of sizes and colours. Fishmeal baits are now one of the favorite choices of the carp angler but flavors also now play a huge part Strawberry, Tuna, Maple and Chili to name but a few and some baits sound as if they are a culinary delight prepared by celebrity chefs.
I feel that a more sensible approach is needed, oily pellets are ok in moderation during the summer months when the fish are more active and can digest these pellets but come the colder months when the fish are less active opt for a more natural offering or a bait with more attraction than actual food content, our online bait shop offers a wide range of low oil pellets also liquids to enhance your baits, give them a try you will be amazed at their effectiveness.
http://www.pvaandpellets.co.uk/index.html
Sussex Carper is a dedicated angler who is committed to the welfare of fish and their habitat, he is a corporate sponsor of ECHO and has attended many courses on fish management, offering a wide range of pellets to sort all anglers with the essence on good nutrition view the range at www.pvaandpellets.co.uk/index.html
30 Carp Fishing Tips for Beginners and More Experienced Fishermen Pivotal for Success
If you want a simple short-cut to carp fishing success you’ve come to the right place. This advice applies to any form of fishing because it is so vitally important. Here is a list of simple details that I wish I’d discovered when I began carp fishing when information was in much shorter supply. Over the years I have been shocked by the number of newer carp anglers who over-look the ultimate importance of their hooks and their hooking efficiency. So many unnecessary blank sessions come from anglers not realising details they’re missing on the end of their line and more awareness of aspects of the part of their tackle that truly matters the most...
Sometimes it’s very easy for a carp angler to get fixated by new products; like bait flavours, new boilies and pellets etc and the constant stream of new bivvies and ‘camo’ gear that emblazon the advertisement pages of glossy fishing magazines meant to seduce us. These products are very well designed to meet new anglers’ fashions and needs and specific purposes. However, the ability of a hook to actually hook a fish is a pretty old basic need and deserves far more personal attention from many anglers to improve the results of their fishing time and efforts spent.
The basis of the information below arrived from my use of thin wired light-weight ‘Kamasan’ hooks 25 years ago or more, which were extremely effective but occasionally opened-up on hooking bigger carp. The answer came in the form of very precisely sharpening thicker wire hooks like the ‘Kamasan’ low water salmon hooks with the longer shank. I have used this types of hook and many similar designs for years and believe their point’s angle of penetration to be absolutely ideal for my purposes. It’s proven superior in sea fishing applications for me also. (Ask England international Dion McFadden – ha ha ha!)
(You might bear in mind fishing hooks do not ‘hook’ fish by themselves, but require force, from a particular angle of line attached to make the point penetrate effectively enough to do its required job.)
In the ‘British Carp Study Group’ magazine (Spring 2007,) famous angler and one of the group’s scientific advisers, George Sharman, proposes that an ideal hook point penetration angle / line angle of force of 26 degrees transferred into the hook point is about right, teamed with an in-turned eye. This has shown ideal initial ‘pricking of fish’ and secure hook hold properties with hooks of varied gap sizes. Now I’m not an engineer, but my practical trials and experiences with hooks and indication / conversion to hooked fish leads me to similar conclusions. It may be noted that I’ve fished for more than a couple of decades using bite indicators and various set-ups tuned to register the minimum of line movement since positive benefits of this were first discovered in my winter fishing especially.
I personally use a sharpened hook and I realise this sound ‘antiquated’ perhaps today. But I consider it is vital for many surprising reasons laid out below. Hooks catch fish but many benefit from a little help and close attention to maximise their effectiveness. It takes personal fishing trials and indication / catch rate comparisons over time to achieve true confidence in the hooks you choose to use. Why not use the best designed best quality hooks you can buy for your personal fishing styles and activities, which may be extremely varied indeed.
Sharpening hook has many hidden benefits on the whole of your fishing and confidence levels and even thinking and approach to everything you do to catch fish.
Fishing hooks are often an after-thought when compared to the attention brought to bear on expensive carp rods and reels for instance. By disciplining yourself into sharpening every hook you use you not only get a great feel for the action and success of any hook pattern compared over time, but ensures that no faulty eyed or blunt pointed hooks are used which definitely cost you fish.
The easiest way to lose a fish is to give it the chance to consume your bait and have a hook either inefficiently penetrate its skin, or that has the wrong design for your rig purposes or situation, size or shape of bait, hook link material action etc. Your rig is the converter of attempted bait consummation. If it is not maximised in every way possible to convert attentions to your bait into hooked fish you may as well fish with no hook or no bait for the majority of your time spent fishing.
Most fish are lost without an angler ever realising a fish was ‘on’ in the first place, which is a shame and is one area the best most detail oriented tuned-in anglers excel out. This may seem ‘over the top’ but then why should you not benefit from little differences that set the best apart from the rest? Rigs don’t need to be complicated just as with baits, but it’s the attention to details in getting the complete process refined so the right bait and rig for any given fishing situation are the right ones. This can produce above average catch consistency without an angler having the added advantage of access to better bait techniques and technology or more fishing time available.
Don’t forget many hooks bought in packets may not be as sharp as is truly needed. Mostly a carp will hook itself, but on pressured waters a hook any less that past needle sharp can well mean many lost fish you never ever imagined had taken your bait into their mouths. A diamond hook sharpener is essential to me – I’d not bother fishing without treating my hooks to a very precisely formed diameter point and length of point too. I find a hook with a longer point which is well sharpened and thinned along its length makes a massive difference to numbers of bigger fish hooked. This ‘point’ applies to chemically sharpened hooks also.
OK, I’ve over-done sharpening sometimes and lost 40 pound plus fish at the net as the point opens, but would such fish have ‘spit’ the hook anyway and not been hooked? It’s very likely. Most anglers use a heavy lead on any of a range of rigs styles and lengths. But most don’t consider the fact that we are really trying to get around how the fish are feeding in response to angling pressure and associated feeding behaviours in response to what the anglers themselves are doing. Sure a heavy lead and tight line hooks lots of fish, but very often a light lead even at range with a longer hair and hook link will produce more fish and, often more warier bigger fish too.
If you find you are ‘dropping fish’ or ‘pulling out’ of them during the fight, or even getting odd single bleeps on the bite indicators which don’t produce positive action afterwards, try sharpening your hook. I cover my freshly sharpened hook with paste and coat the hair and bait in paste. I often use 2 or 3 types of homemade paste on a rig beside other boilie or paste baits for example in order to vary the solubility and rate of breakdown of bait and give the fish more to ‘think about’. This covers the taste of a sharpened hook and glint of hook metal before it oxidises and fades. Plus paste melting produces unusual bait movement and added dimensions to a curious fish.
In fact using paste on the hook and similar paste in different states in a PVA bag can really trip up fish even better than common set-ups that just use paste on the bait on a hair alone. I like to actually draw attention to the hook itself which is unusual these days. By using fresh balls of paste, air-dried paste and scalded paste bits together with a diversity of strategically included items in the PVA bag many fish seem to lose the grip on their ‘danger reference points’ momentarily. This is after all the aim of all our rig and bait efforts right?
If you’re still not convinced, why not trial identical rigs with sharpened and unsharpened hooks and see the difference over a range of hook designs. The results will be clear; I actually refined my results using rigs and a range of hook patterns to hook very shy biting crucian carp. I could actually observe the fish taking each bait and I was shocked that many makes and designs straight from the packet rarely produced a hooked fish. Often a fish would get hooked and get off in a second, while others stayed in the mouth despite attempts to twist and shake the hook out. I do appreciate that the quality and technology and design involved in hooks has been raised over the years by manufacturers but a personally physically sharpened hook has enormous benefits.
The realities of simple peace of mind and improved confidence that you are fishing as efficiently as possible really counts especially on tougher waters and when fish are not ‘playing the game!’ Using the most important piece of your fishing tackle which you have intimately inspected and shaped yourself really does produce more fish; getting into the habit of being more detail oriented adds up and the extra effort even influences your effectiveness in fish location and swim choice, thinking and approach to bait and efforts to minimise lazy conventional fishing practices whose edge has already passed.
As its Christmas coming up why not invest in a hook sharpener and really experiment in achieving the longest sharpest hook points possible, perhaps while watching all that Christmas TV. (I have no connection with ‘Fox International’ except I used to fish alongside Cliff (ha ha ha!) But their bar shaped diamond sharpeners are the most effective tool I’ve used for many years now.) The effort of sharpening your hooks will really pay you back for sure. It did for carp fishing legend Richard Walker...
Best of all, doing this will raise your confidence when you cast your rig into those cold winter waters, where a fish may only be willing to move just a few inches to feed and an extremely sharp hook is all you may have to initially efficiently hook a winter fish. Especially at times such as this, just a few minutes in concentrated effort sharpening your hooks, could well produce for you a very memorable fish worthy of your efforts.
By Tim Richardson.
About The Author
Tim Richardson is a homemade carp and catfish bait-maker, and proven big fish angler. His bait making and bait enhancing books / ebooks are even used by members of the “British Carp Study Group” for reference. View this dedicated bait secrets website now... For the unique and acclaimed new massive expert bait making / enhancing ‘bibles’ ebooks / books: “BIG CATFISH AND CARP BAIT SECRETS!” And: “BIG CARP BAIT SECRETS!” (AND "FLAVOUR, FEEDING TRIGGERS AND CHEMORECEPTION SECRETS") SEE: http://www.baitbigfish.com
Sometimes it’s very easy for a carp angler to get fixated by new products; like bait flavours, new boilies and pellets etc and the constant stream of new bivvies and ‘camo’ gear that emblazon the advertisement pages of glossy fishing magazines meant to seduce us. These products are very well designed to meet new anglers’ fashions and needs and specific purposes. However, the ability of a hook to actually hook a fish is a pretty old basic need and deserves far more personal attention from many anglers to improve the results of their fishing time and efforts spent.
The basis of the information below arrived from my use of thin wired light-weight ‘Kamasan’ hooks 25 years ago or more, which were extremely effective but occasionally opened-up on hooking bigger carp. The answer came in the form of very precisely sharpening thicker wire hooks like the ‘Kamasan’ low water salmon hooks with the longer shank. I have used this types of hook and many similar designs for years and believe their point’s angle of penetration to be absolutely ideal for my purposes. It’s proven superior in sea fishing applications for me also. (Ask England international Dion McFadden – ha ha ha!)
(You might bear in mind fishing hooks do not ‘hook’ fish by themselves, but require force, from a particular angle of line attached to make the point penetrate effectively enough to do its required job.)
In the ‘British Carp Study Group’ magazine (Spring 2007,) famous angler and one of the group’s scientific advisers, George Sharman, proposes that an ideal hook point penetration angle / line angle of force of 26 degrees transferred into the hook point is about right, teamed with an in-turned eye. This has shown ideal initial ‘pricking of fish’ and secure hook hold properties with hooks of varied gap sizes. Now I’m not an engineer, but my practical trials and experiences with hooks and indication / conversion to hooked fish leads me to similar conclusions. It may be noted that I’ve fished for more than a couple of decades using bite indicators and various set-ups tuned to register the minimum of line movement since positive benefits of this were first discovered in my winter fishing especially.
I personally use a sharpened hook and I realise this sound ‘antiquated’ perhaps today. But I consider it is vital for many surprising reasons laid out below. Hooks catch fish but many benefit from a little help and close attention to maximise their effectiveness. It takes personal fishing trials and indication / catch rate comparisons over time to achieve true confidence in the hooks you choose to use. Why not use the best designed best quality hooks you can buy for your personal fishing styles and activities, which may be extremely varied indeed.
Sharpening hook has many hidden benefits on the whole of your fishing and confidence levels and even thinking and approach to everything you do to catch fish.
Fishing hooks are often an after-thought when compared to the attention brought to bear on expensive carp rods and reels for instance. By disciplining yourself into sharpening every hook you use you not only get a great feel for the action and success of any hook pattern compared over time, but ensures that no faulty eyed or blunt pointed hooks are used which definitely cost you fish.
The easiest way to lose a fish is to give it the chance to consume your bait and have a hook either inefficiently penetrate its skin, or that has the wrong design for your rig purposes or situation, size or shape of bait, hook link material action etc. Your rig is the converter of attempted bait consummation. If it is not maximised in every way possible to convert attentions to your bait into hooked fish you may as well fish with no hook or no bait for the majority of your time spent fishing.
Most fish are lost without an angler ever realising a fish was ‘on’ in the first place, which is a shame and is one area the best most detail oriented tuned-in anglers excel out. This may seem ‘over the top’ but then why should you not benefit from little differences that set the best apart from the rest? Rigs don’t need to be complicated just as with baits, but it’s the attention to details in getting the complete process refined so the right bait and rig for any given fishing situation are the right ones. This can produce above average catch consistency without an angler having the added advantage of access to better bait techniques and technology or more fishing time available.
Don’t forget many hooks bought in packets may not be as sharp as is truly needed. Mostly a carp will hook itself, but on pressured waters a hook any less that past needle sharp can well mean many lost fish you never ever imagined had taken your bait into their mouths. A diamond hook sharpener is essential to me – I’d not bother fishing without treating my hooks to a very precisely formed diameter point and length of point too. I find a hook with a longer point which is well sharpened and thinned along its length makes a massive difference to numbers of bigger fish hooked. This ‘point’ applies to chemically sharpened hooks also.
OK, I’ve over-done sharpening sometimes and lost 40 pound plus fish at the net as the point opens, but would such fish have ‘spit’ the hook anyway and not been hooked? It’s very likely. Most anglers use a heavy lead on any of a range of rigs styles and lengths. But most don’t consider the fact that we are really trying to get around how the fish are feeding in response to angling pressure and associated feeding behaviours in response to what the anglers themselves are doing. Sure a heavy lead and tight line hooks lots of fish, but very often a light lead even at range with a longer hair and hook link will produce more fish and, often more warier bigger fish too.
If you find you are ‘dropping fish’ or ‘pulling out’ of them during the fight, or even getting odd single bleeps on the bite indicators which don’t produce positive action afterwards, try sharpening your hook. I cover my freshly sharpened hook with paste and coat the hair and bait in paste. I often use 2 or 3 types of homemade paste on a rig beside other boilie or paste baits for example in order to vary the solubility and rate of breakdown of bait and give the fish more to ‘think about’. This covers the taste of a sharpened hook and glint of hook metal before it oxidises and fades. Plus paste melting produces unusual bait movement and added dimensions to a curious fish.
In fact using paste on the hook and similar paste in different states in a PVA bag can really trip up fish even better than common set-ups that just use paste on the bait on a hair alone. I like to actually draw attention to the hook itself which is unusual these days. By using fresh balls of paste, air-dried paste and scalded paste bits together with a diversity of strategically included items in the PVA bag many fish seem to lose the grip on their ‘danger reference points’ momentarily. This is after all the aim of all our rig and bait efforts right?
If you’re still not convinced, why not trial identical rigs with sharpened and unsharpened hooks and see the difference over a range of hook designs. The results will be clear; I actually refined my results using rigs and a range of hook patterns to hook very shy biting crucian carp. I could actually observe the fish taking each bait and I was shocked that many makes and designs straight from the packet rarely produced a hooked fish. Often a fish would get hooked and get off in a second, while others stayed in the mouth despite attempts to twist and shake the hook out. I do appreciate that the quality and technology and design involved in hooks has been raised over the years by manufacturers but a personally physically sharpened hook has enormous benefits.
The realities of simple peace of mind and improved confidence that you are fishing as efficiently as possible really counts especially on tougher waters and when fish are not ‘playing the game!’ Using the most important piece of your fishing tackle which you have intimately inspected and shaped yourself really does produce more fish; getting into the habit of being more detail oriented adds up and the extra effort even influences your effectiveness in fish location and swim choice, thinking and approach to bait and efforts to minimise lazy conventional fishing practices whose edge has already passed.
As its Christmas coming up why not invest in a hook sharpener and really experiment in achieving the longest sharpest hook points possible, perhaps while watching all that Christmas TV. (I have no connection with ‘Fox International’ except I used to fish alongside Cliff (ha ha ha!) But their bar shaped diamond sharpeners are the most effective tool I’ve used for many years now.) The effort of sharpening your hooks will really pay you back for sure. It did for carp fishing legend Richard Walker...
Best of all, doing this will raise your confidence when you cast your rig into those cold winter waters, where a fish may only be willing to move just a few inches to feed and an extremely sharp hook is all you may have to initially efficiently hook a winter fish. Especially at times such as this, just a few minutes in concentrated effort sharpening your hooks, could well produce for you a very memorable fish worthy of your efforts.
By Tim Richardson.
About The Author
Tim Richardson is a homemade carp and catfish bait-maker, and proven big fish angler. His bait making and bait enhancing books / ebooks are even used by members of the “British Carp Study Group” for reference. View this dedicated bait secrets website now... For the unique and acclaimed new massive expert bait making / enhancing ‘bibles’ ebooks / books: “BIG CATFISH AND CARP BAIT SECRETS!” And: “BIG CARP BAIT SECRETS!” (AND "FLAVOUR, FEEDING TRIGGERS AND CHEMORECEPTION SECRETS") SEE: http://www.baitbigfish.com
Which Liquids
In this article, I will try to give you a list of the best liquids to use when fishing for carp. Everyone has different ideas as to which is their favourite but I hope to give you some choices.
Ming Oil.
This liquid is a ruby, fishy blend and is considered to be one of the best warm water carp attractors when splashed over any sort of pellets to add real pulling power. It’s also good in any boil mix, use 20-30 ml to per 1 kilo of dry mix.
Marmite.
Like the saying goes, you either love it or you hate it, well carp seem to love it. This is salty and very rich in vitamin B and they do seem to like it. Use between 15-30 ml with 6 eggs in a boil mix, sometimes warming the jar makes it easier to work with. Beware your bait may soften quicker in the pond, I also use dog biscuits soaked in marmite when fishing on the surface.
Corn Steep Liquor.
This is one of the biggest corn steep liquors or CSL is a brown thick liquid made during glucose extraction from maize. You can use this in a boil mix, pour it neat over ground bait or splash it over pellets. There are different qualities around and prices but try to buy one that’s not been watered down to much as it looses its effectiveness.
Liquid Molasses.
Liquid molasses can come in many different strengths and sweetness’s. It can range from top quality to a bitter black strap molasses. It’s very thick, sticky and tastes a bit like sugar that’s been burnt. This liquid is very cheap and does not sound exciting which is perhaps why more anglers don’t use it, but I find it quite good. Use it in a boil mix at 15 ml with six eggs or try it direct on pellets or something else.
Squirrel Dip.
Squirrel dip is a blend of several concentrated extracts and liquid foods. It is very reliable of getting a bite off a carp, whether it is in the warmer or colder months.
This is good whether you use it in a mix or as a dip. You can only get it through
Yateley Angling Centre or Tackle Box.
By using these liquids for carp fishing it has been known to catch carp up to 40lbs in weight but you must be sure to have the right tackle to land these big fish.
About The Author
Jeff Ryall runs a sports website that focuses on information about sport and sport related products. You can enjoy reading tips, tricks and techniques about golf at his site at http://fishermensfriend1.blogspot.com
Got your own views then e-mail me at wetnets@googlemail.com
Ming Oil.
This liquid is a ruby, fishy blend and is considered to be one of the best warm water carp attractors when splashed over any sort of pellets to add real pulling power. It’s also good in any boil mix, use 20-30 ml to per 1 kilo of dry mix.
Marmite.
Like the saying goes, you either love it or you hate it, well carp seem to love it. This is salty and very rich in vitamin B and they do seem to like it. Use between 15-30 ml with 6 eggs in a boil mix, sometimes warming the jar makes it easier to work with. Beware your bait may soften quicker in the pond, I also use dog biscuits soaked in marmite when fishing on the surface.
Corn Steep Liquor.
This is one of the biggest corn steep liquors or CSL is a brown thick liquid made during glucose extraction from maize. You can use this in a boil mix, pour it neat over ground bait or splash it over pellets. There are different qualities around and prices but try to buy one that’s not been watered down to much as it looses its effectiveness.
Liquid Molasses.
Liquid molasses can come in many different strengths and sweetness’s. It can range from top quality to a bitter black strap molasses. It’s very thick, sticky and tastes a bit like sugar that’s been burnt. This liquid is very cheap and does not sound exciting which is perhaps why more anglers don’t use it, but I find it quite good. Use it in a boil mix at 15 ml with six eggs or try it direct on pellets or something else.
Squirrel Dip.
Squirrel dip is a blend of several concentrated extracts and liquid foods. It is very reliable of getting a bite off a carp, whether it is in the warmer or colder months.
This is good whether you use it in a mix or as a dip. You can only get it through
Yateley Angling Centre or Tackle Box.
By using these liquids for carp fishing it has been known to catch carp up to 40lbs in weight but you must be sure to have the right tackle to land these big fish.
About The Author
Jeff Ryall runs a sports website that focuses on information about sport and sport related products. You can enjoy reading tips, tricks and techniques about golf at his site at http://fishermensfriend1.blogspot.com
Got your own views then e-mail me at wetnets@googlemail.com
Accuracy is the key to success
As a Carp specimen hunter I have fished many well known venues and being able to cast to the exact same spot every time is essential if you are going to succeed in catching that big one. There is no point spoding out 10lb of bait all over the lake and then casting your hook baits yards from where you need to be, there is a sure fire way to get your spod bait and hook bait in exactly the same spot every single time, when a friend of mine showed me this technique my catch rate improved dramatically.
Let me give you a scenario that I am sure you have all come across. You arrive at the lake and you pick you peg, the lake is well known for weed and before you can start to fish you have to find a clear area which you can spod out to and cast your hook baits to. I keep this simple, I setup one rod and cast to an area that I like the look of, before you do this pick a specific feature on the far bank, could be a tree, building or set of lily pads, anything will do, this will be your casting line, you will always aim for this line. At this point I have no rig attached just my weight. I then retrieve the weight by very slowly pulling the rod towards me, you will easily feel the weight pulling through the weed, reel in the slack line and pull the rod backwards again, when you find a clear spot you will feel the difference as the weight moves freely across the bottom, this is the weed free area, stop pulling, this is the spot you want!.
Now, you need to be able to cast to this exact spot every time, accuracy is key to your success. This is what we do now, you have your weight in the clear, weed free area, don't move it, simply get some electrical tape and put a small piece at the end of your rod tip, just wrap the tape around the line and trim off, this gives you a marker on line, so when you recast using the feature on the far bank you picked earlier you simply reel the line in until you can see that tape at the end of the rod tip, now you have your bait in exactly the same spot and distance every time you cast out!
Now do the same for your second rod, use the same method and you have two rods that you can cast out to a clear area in exactly the same spot every time!.
As you probably already know Carp fishing requires lots of bait, especially if you are on a long session and fishing through the night. You have to be able to spod your free baits out to this exact spot where your hook baits are going to be, so how do we do this? This is how.
You already have your line of cast, remember we picked the features on the far bank?, so we use the same features, that way we know we have the correct line, but how are we going to get the distance right for the spod rod, we have no tape on the line, this is what we do. Get one of the bait rods with the tape on the line, put your reel on free spin or take the bail arm off and walk up the bank with the end of the line in your hand, when you get to the tape at the end of the rod tip stop, this is the correct distance, lay the line on the ground, it will stay there as you have your weight attached. Now simply get the spod rod and do the same, walk up the bank to where you left the other line, hen you get there, don't put tape on the spod rod line just go back to the reel and clip the line up on the reel, most reels have line clips!.
Now you can cast the spod rod out and it will hit the line clip and exactly the right distance, how easy is that!.
I hope you enjoyed this tip, it has worked wonders for me, and you can always email me if you need any further help at the address below, tight lines and remember accuracy is critical to your fishing success.
If you would like more great tips please feel free to visit my site, http://www.FishingGuide4u.com
Steve Kempsonhttp://www.FishingGuide4u.com email - L.kempson@btinternet.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steve_Kempson
Got your own tips or experiences then e-mail me at: wetnets@googlemail.com
Let me give you a scenario that I am sure you have all come across. You arrive at the lake and you pick you peg, the lake is well known for weed and before you can start to fish you have to find a clear area which you can spod out to and cast your hook baits to. I keep this simple, I setup one rod and cast to an area that I like the look of, before you do this pick a specific feature on the far bank, could be a tree, building or set of lily pads, anything will do, this will be your casting line, you will always aim for this line. At this point I have no rig attached just my weight. I then retrieve the weight by very slowly pulling the rod towards me, you will easily feel the weight pulling through the weed, reel in the slack line and pull the rod backwards again, when you find a clear spot you will feel the difference as the weight moves freely across the bottom, this is the weed free area, stop pulling, this is the spot you want!.
Now, you need to be able to cast to this exact spot every time, accuracy is key to your success. This is what we do now, you have your weight in the clear, weed free area, don't move it, simply get some electrical tape and put a small piece at the end of your rod tip, just wrap the tape around the line and trim off, this gives you a marker on line, so when you recast using the feature on the far bank you picked earlier you simply reel the line in until you can see that tape at the end of the rod tip, now you have your bait in exactly the same spot and distance every time you cast out!
Now do the same for your second rod, use the same method and you have two rods that you can cast out to a clear area in exactly the same spot every time!.
As you probably already know Carp fishing requires lots of bait, especially if you are on a long session and fishing through the night. You have to be able to spod your free baits out to this exact spot where your hook baits are going to be, so how do we do this? This is how.
You already have your line of cast, remember we picked the features on the far bank?, so we use the same features, that way we know we have the correct line, but how are we going to get the distance right for the spod rod, we have no tape on the line, this is what we do. Get one of the bait rods with the tape on the line, put your reel on free spin or take the bail arm off and walk up the bank with the end of the line in your hand, when you get to the tape at the end of the rod tip stop, this is the correct distance, lay the line on the ground, it will stay there as you have your weight attached. Now simply get the spod rod and do the same, walk up the bank to where you left the other line, hen you get there, don't put tape on the spod rod line just go back to the reel and clip the line up on the reel, most reels have line clips!.
Now you can cast the spod rod out and it will hit the line clip and exactly the right distance, how easy is that!.
I hope you enjoyed this tip, it has worked wonders for me, and you can always email me if you need any further help at the address below, tight lines and remember accuracy is critical to your fishing success.
If you would like more great tips please feel free to visit my site, http://www.FishingGuide4u.com
Steve Kempsonhttp://www.FishingGuide4u.com email - L.kempson@btinternet.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steve_Kempson
Got your own tips or experiences then e-mail me at: wetnets@googlemail.com
Surface fishing for Carp
If you have not tried surface fishing for Carp you are missing out on a really fantastic and exciting method of Carp fishing There is nothing like seeing the big swirl around your bait and then that slurping sound as your surface bait is taken by what is usually the larger than average Carp.
I have tried many methods of surface fishing and can tell you they all work and one of the most interesting facts is that the Carp you catch are usually bigger that what you will take from a bottom bait, I don't know why this is but previous experience has always shown me when I take a Carp from the surface its a nice one and bigger then the average bear !.
We can use many different types of baits for surface fishing, dog biscuits, pop-up boilies, ready made floaters specially prepared with delicious flavours, the list is endless all of these works but my favourite is the old trusted bread crust. I have caught more Carp on floating bread than any other method and to set this up is really simple, I will explain this for you in a moment.
I see many anglers using what we call the 'controller float' this is simply a float that is heavily weighted for casting distance and we have a 3 to 4ft tail with our bait usually sitting on the surface behind the float. Now, don't get me wrong this is a good method you can cast virtually anywhere but I have always found one major problem with this method the float will not stay in the prime area where you want it, especially if its a windy day, you know the spot by the Lillie pads where you have catapulted those free offerings and those carp are taking them like food is going out of fashion!.
I decided it was time for a change and tried something so simple it just could not work, or could it!, yes you are right it worked and it worked so well I could cast my bait out to the exact spot I wanted and it never moved, perfect!.
So, what method did I use, here it is, please do not under estimate this method because its looks to simple I have found this to be very effective whenever I have used it, this is what you do. You setup a simple ledger rig, free running, slide the ledger on to the line, add a ledger stop below the ledger, one side only we need this to be free running and then tie on our hook, for crust fishing I will usually use a size 8 or 6 hook.
Now we start with a tail of about 2 to 3 ft add some bread crust and cast out, id the bread does not rise to the surface our tail is to short and the depth of the water is deeper than 2 or 3 ft. We slide the ledger of another foot, re-cast until we can see the bread floating in top of the water. I have used this method in water that is over 10ft deep, so I had a ten foot tail but can still cast this out easily.
So, now we have our weight sitting on the bottom and out bread floating on the surface, and yes you guessed, it will stay exactly where you cast it, even if there is a Gail force wind!.
Give this method a try, I guarantee you will have great success, there are many more tips on my website here www.fishingGuide4u.com May all your fish be big ones tight lines!
Article written by Steve Kempson, 30 years of fishing experience and a lover of the sport. For more great fishing reviews please visit http://www.fishingguide4u.com/
email - L.kempson@btinternet.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steve_Kempson
Got your own Experiences you wont to share then contact me at: wetnets@googlemail.com
I have tried many methods of surface fishing and can tell you they all work and one of the most interesting facts is that the Carp you catch are usually bigger that what you will take from a bottom bait, I don't know why this is but previous experience has always shown me when I take a Carp from the surface its a nice one and bigger then the average bear !.
We can use many different types of baits for surface fishing, dog biscuits, pop-up boilies, ready made floaters specially prepared with delicious flavours, the list is endless all of these works but my favourite is the old trusted bread crust. I have caught more Carp on floating bread than any other method and to set this up is really simple, I will explain this for you in a moment.
I see many anglers using what we call the 'controller float' this is simply a float that is heavily weighted for casting distance and we have a 3 to 4ft tail with our bait usually sitting on the surface behind the float. Now, don't get me wrong this is a good method you can cast virtually anywhere but I have always found one major problem with this method the float will not stay in the prime area where you want it, especially if its a windy day, you know the spot by the Lillie pads where you have catapulted those free offerings and those carp are taking them like food is going out of fashion!.
I decided it was time for a change and tried something so simple it just could not work, or could it!, yes you are right it worked and it worked so well I could cast my bait out to the exact spot I wanted and it never moved, perfect!.
So, what method did I use, here it is, please do not under estimate this method because its looks to simple I have found this to be very effective whenever I have used it, this is what you do. You setup a simple ledger rig, free running, slide the ledger on to the line, add a ledger stop below the ledger, one side only we need this to be free running and then tie on our hook, for crust fishing I will usually use a size 8 or 6 hook.
Now we start with a tail of about 2 to 3 ft add some bread crust and cast out, id the bread does not rise to the surface our tail is to short and the depth of the water is deeper than 2 or 3 ft. We slide the ledger of another foot, re-cast until we can see the bread floating in top of the water. I have used this method in water that is over 10ft deep, so I had a ten foot tail but can still cast this out easily.
So, now we have our weight sitting on the bottom and out bread floating on the surface, and yes you guessed, it will stay exactly where you cast it, even if there is a Gail force wind!.
Give this method a try, I guarantee you will have great success, there are many more tips on my website here www.fishingGuide4u.com May all your fish be big ones tight lines!
Article written by Steve Kempson, 30 years of fishing experience and a lover of the sport. For more great fishing reviews please visit http://www.fishingguide4u.com/
email - L.kempson@btinternet.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steve_Kempson
Got your own Experiences you wont to share then contact me at: wetnets@googlemail.com
My first twenty..By Steve Kepson
I started fishing as a small boy around the Birmingham area, mostly on the canals and small lakes in the public parks. It did not take me long to catch my first Carp and of all things it came from the canal just half a mile from where I used to live. I can remember thinking what the hell have I got here as my little 6ft spinning rod doubled over and the line ripped from my reel at the speed of a roaring train. I landed the fish at it was a 10lb 2oz mirror, from that day I was hooked (excuse the pun!) and Carp fishing took over my life, as it does with many of us !.
It was not long before I became obsessed with catching my first 20lb carp and I went everywhere trying, the canal did produce other carp for me but none of them hit the 20lb mark and I spent many lonely nights on the canal bank, sometimes feeling very isolated and scared, fishing the canals in Birmingham can be a scary thing and I would not recommend doing this these days, make sure you have some friends with you!
There were many day fisheries springing up all over the country boasting of 20lb and 30lb fish and I knew they were there but could I catch that twenty, NO I always ended up just short and went home disappointed to fight another day.
So, to cut a very long story short a mate of mine told me about Horseshoe lake which boated big fish and there were lots being caught, I guess part of the answer for me was if I really wanted to catch a twenty I had to fish where they were, and Horseshoe is where they were !.
Armed with every carp bait you could imagine off we went to Horseshoe, we had booked a mid-week session as we were not members and we fished from Monday to Wednesday, we were luck and managed to get the double peg in the winter bay. Horseshoe is exactly what it suggests and lake in the shape of a horseshoe, with a summer bay which is quite shallow and a deeper winter bay where the fish move into when the weather gets colder.
We were fishing in the winter bay on the double peg about half way up the bay. Horseshoe is very weedy and you have to find a gravel spot by casting out and slowly pulling your tackle back, I found my spot about 80 yards out, a clear patch probably no bigger than 3 foot long and 4 foot wide. I clipped up and put two rods out hitting the patch after about 7 or 8 casts!!.
I had read so much about complex rigs and super wonder baits but the truth is if Carp are in the mood they are in the mood and will eat anything, this has always been my experience. So, out went both rods with the same bait on tiger nut flavour boilies, my mate decided to use his tried and trusted Maze.
Having cast out the rods, then came the really hard work, horseshoe is no easy lake, you have to work hard, I know people who have spent a whole week at this lake and never had a run!!, this was my first visit and that was not going to happen to me, or was it!!
I had a spod mix of maze, hemp, corn and shopped boilies and I must have spodded out about 50lb well it seemed like that anyway, and my arm was dropping off after the first night. So, the rods were out, Tiger nut boilies on both of them, the areas was baited up and the wait was on. The first night I had a run at about 02:00, yep she was on and I lost her, the hook pulled out I was devastated, she was a big-un I could tell. No action during the day so we eagerly await the next night, bingo my left hand rod went off like a train and I landed my first carp, was it my first twenty NO, she weighed in at 18lb, dam just two pound short !!.
I was beginning to think it was not going to happen, we were on our last night, this was my last chance was that twenty going to come. I sat up for most of that last night praying for a run, the last thing I remember was looking at the clock 04:00 and I must have fell asleep.
I was woken by my left hand rod screaming off at 06:30, I could not believe it, we were packing up in just two hours and I was in to what felt like a very big fish, no mad dashing around the lake just heavy thumping on the rod top. After about 10 minutes I had the fish in the net and I knew it was a 20lb yippeeee. The fish actually weighed 29lb 4oz so not only did I catch my first 20lb I nearly had my first 30lb !!.
Horseshoe was kind to me, two fish in three days and a 29lb fish to end with.
So what’s the morale of this story, if you want to catch a twenty or thirty go and fish where they are !! Keep it simple and pray...
Steve Kempsonhttp://www.FishingGuide4u.com email - L.kempson@btinternet.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steve_Kempson
Got your own experiences you wish to share then E-Mail me at wetnets@googlemail.com
It was not long before I became obsessed with catching my first 20lb carp and I went everywhere trying, the canal did produce other carp for me but none of them hit the 20lb mark and I spent many lonely nights on the canal bank, sometimes feeling very isolated and scared, fishing the canals in Birmingham can be a scary thing and I would not recommend doing this these days, make sure you have some friends with you!
There were many day fisheries springing up all over the country boasting of 20lb and 30lb fish and I knew they were there but could I catch that twenty, NO I always ended up just short and went home disappointed to fight another day.
So, to cut a very long story short a mate of mine told me about Horseshoe lake which boated big fish and there were lots being caught, I guess part of the answer for me was if I really wanted to catch a twenty I had to fish where they were, and Horseshoe is where they were !.
Armed with every carp bait you could imagine off we went to Horseshoe, we had booked a mid-week session as we were not members and we fished from Monday to Wednesday, we were luck and managed to get the double peg in the winter bay. Horseshoe is exactly what it suggests and lake in the shape of a horseshoe, with a summer bay which is quite shallow and a deeper winter bay where the fish move into when the weather gets colder.
We were fishing in the winter bay on the double peg about half way up the bay. Horseshoe is very weedy and you have to find a gravel spot by casting out and slowly pulling your tackle back, I found my spot about 80 yards out, a clear patch probably no bigger than 3 foot long and 4 foot wide. I clipped up and put two rods out hitting the patch after about 7 or 8 casts!!.
I had read so much about complex rigs and super wonder baits but the truth is if Carp are in the mood they are in the mood and will eat anything, this has always been my experience. So, out went both rods with the same bait on tiger nut flavour boilies, my mate decided to use his tried and trusted Maze.
Having cast out the rods, then came the really hard work, horseshoe is no easy lake, you have to work hard, I know people who have spent a whole week at this lake and never had a run!!, this was my first visit and that was not going to happen to me, or was it!!
I had a spod mix of maze, hemp, corn and shopped boilies and I must have spodded out about 50lb well it seemed like that anyway, and my arm was dropping off after the first night. So, the rods were out, Tiger nut boilies on both of them, the areas was baited up and the wait was on. The first night I had a run at about 02:00, yep she was on and I lost her, the hook pulled out I was devastated, she was a big-un I could tell. No action during the day so we eagerly await the next night, bingo my left hand rod went off like a train and I landed my first carp, was it my first twenty NO, she weighed in at 18lb, dam just two pound short !!.
I was beginning to think it was not going to happen, we were on our last night, this was my last chance was that twenty going to come. I sat up for most of that last night praying for a run, the last thing I remember was looking at the clock 04:00 and I must have fell asleep.
I was woken by my left hand rod screaming off at 06:30, I could not believe it, we were packing up in just two hours and I was in to what felt like a very big fish, no mad dashing around the lake just heavy thumping on the rod top. After about 10 minutes I had the fish in the net and I knew it was a 20lb yippeeee. The fish actually weighed 29lb 4oz so not only did I catch my first 20lb I nearly had my first 30lb !!.
Horseshoe was kind to me, two fish in three days and a 29lb fish to end with.
So what’s the morale of this story, if you want to catch a twenty or thirty go and fish where they are !! Keep it simple and pray...
Steve Kempsonhttp://www.FishingGuide4u.com email - L.kempson@btinternet.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steve_Kempson
Got your own experiences you wish to share then E-Mail me at wetnets@googlemail.com
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