Years ago, fishing for common carp was not very popular in North America but these days it’s quickly gaining momentum and is now classed as a sport fish. Here are my thoughts why I think carp fishing is great.

First off, this fish is widely dispersed throughout most of main land U.S. and southern Canada so there are plenty of excellent carp waters.

Carp fishing can be done strictly from shore. This is a plus for non boat-owners and boat owners alike when they can’t get out due to weather conditions.

Waters that hold carp usually support healthy populations and in some cases they are the dominant species.

Carp can grow to be real heavyweights - this is the part I like (world record is over 80 pounds). You never know what size fish you’re going to catch. They also put-up a great fight. I wouldn’t compare it to a spectacular one like that of a steelhead but they do however, make long, powerful runs. This is where the challenge comes into play.

Many times, big fish can leave you spoolless and many times, they can break you off… even though your drag is set. Once on, a big fish may take a while to bring in. One thing is certain… you can’t rush them.

Carp that live in waters with strong currents tend to fight harder than the ones from calm waters - adapting to the current, their bodies naturally grow stronger.

These fish bite at any time of the day and even through the night. Around the great lakes area, they can be caught from May ‘till November. During the cold winter months the carp go into semi-hibernation or torpor and therefore they don’t feed. Although, I have heard of the odd fish caught while ice fishing.

Still-fishing for carp is very relaxing (my preferred method). Baits like corn are readily available either canned or frozen. Many tackle shops carry various carp baits as well.

For a real change, carp can be stalked and caught by fly fishing in fairly clear, shallow water. This can be quite the challenge because carp are extremely wary and easily spooked. To me, carp fishing is just plain fun and challenging. I’m always trying to beat my ‘personal best’.

If you’ve never fished for carp and you’d like to try it, I would suggest starting off using the still-fishing method. Once you begin to catch a few, you may find carp fishing very exciting and wanting to catch more. To those of you who regularly fish for carp… you know what I’m talking about.
Good fishing!
Claudio