Ten Tips for the Top!
1. Get There Early
- Why: Arriving before dawn allows you to locate fish when they are most active. Look for signs like jumping or disturbances on the water’s surface.
- Tip: The early bird gets the worm — or in this case, the carp!
2. Observe Fish Behaviour
- Signs to Watch For: Look for small disturbances, ideally fish backs breaking the surface. These movements indicate that carp are feeding ‘off the top’.
- Strategy: If you see fish activity, it’s your cue to set up nearby.
3. Choose Your Bait Wisely
- Recommended Baits: Floating pellets, chum mixers – and, where birdlife allows, the hardy perennial, bread crust – all have their day.
- Tip: Give your baits a boost with your preferred oils, glugs or attractors – to draw fish into your swim.
4. Create an Enticing Area
- Feeding Strategy: Start your session by introducing a generous handful of bait to get the fish feeding confidently. Aim for eight to ten handfuls to spark their interest.
- Objective: Establish a feeding zone that carp will return to throughout your fishing session.
5. Use the Right Gear
- Choose the Rod and Rig Setup to Suit The Conditions: Whether you’re free-lining at short range, regular controller float fishing, or using a Bolt Bubble for casting further.
- Hook Size: Begin with a size 8 Hook, transitioning to a size 10 as the session progresses for more subtle presentations.
6. Keep the Bait Moving
- Maintain Interest: Regularly top up the bait to keep carp engaged. It’s crucial to create a friendly environment.
- Technique: Be quiet and mindful of your movements to avoid spooking the fish, even while playing one.
7. Refine Your Approach
- Adjusting to the Fish: As your swim gets busier, fish may start to become more cautious. Switch tactics accordingly.
- Be Flexible: Experiment with your hook presentations to ensure you remain effective throughout the day.
8. Watch the Hookbait
- Focus: Rather than focusing on float movement, keep your eyes glued to the hookbait. The thrill lies when it disappears!
- Ready to Strike: Be prepared to strike at the right moment, usually when you see that bait vanish.
9. Bait Application Techniques
- Distance Tips: Use a catapult for ranges of 15 to 45 yards, while deploying a spod rod for longer casts to continually deliver bait effectively.
- Hookbaits and Feed: Always carry plenty of floaters to maintain the fish’s interest – but consider a hardier, more attractive whittled-down pop up boilie for the hook.
10. Embrace Evening Opportunities
- Night Fishing: Carp often become more active as daylight fades, so consider extending your session into the evening.
- Strategy for Dusk: Cast past the feeding fish and slowly reel back to draw them in, capitalising on their lowered guard at night.
Conclusion
By implementing these top tips, you can enhance your success in surface fishing this summer.
