How to Fly Fish for Carp

Fly-fishing for Carp is on the rise in the United States. Although these fish are highly sought after in the rest of the world many Americans still consider them a trash fish. This image is quickly changing. Carp are incredibly weary fish that once hooked often make astonishing runs and grow to very large sizes. Aren't these attributes anglers look for in game fish? Exactly, they are, and that's why many people are seeking out Carp more than ever before. Fly-fishing for Carp is much different than fishing for trout, so to get you started hear are some tips.

The most important factor when fly-fishing for Carp is your rod and reel setup. These fish can grow large, to 40lbs, and normally make impressive runs that will test your drag. So having the right setup is a must when you hook into one of these monsters. I recommend a 6-8 weight rod; this largely depends on how large the carp are in your area. A 6 weight rod is fine when the fish you are targeting are less than 10 pounds, but if you can expect to hook into larger fish I recommend an 8 weight. This will give you the ability to get leverage on fish during the fight and you're less likely to break the rod.

Your reel and line are equally as important as the rod. These fish make astonishing runs, which means you will need a reel with a good drag. And since they grow to such large sizes using a strong line is also important. Normally I use 1-2 feet of 3-4x tippet (8-10lbs) attached to a 7 foot leader of 12 lb test. Sometimes it may be necessary to use lighter or heavier tackle, but this is my normal setup. Heavier line would be best used during high water or when the water is off color. Lighter line may have to be used when the water is very clear or the fish are feeding on small insects. Remember, don't use lighter line unless it is necessary, these are big powerful fish that can easily break light line.

Understanding how Carp feed will help determine the right flies to use. For the most part Carp feed off the bottom, occasionally they will feed off the surface but you can't expect that. So preparing to fish the bottom is a must. Proven flies are many of the same flies you would fish for any species on the bottom. Wooly buggers and crayfish patterns are my personal favorites, but I have had success on a variety of nymph patterns. Since you want these flies on the bottom it's important to add weight, and work them slowly along the bottom. Now, in the rare occasion you witness Carp feeding on the surface you must try and imitate what they are eating. Just like you would match the hatch for trout you must try to do the same with Carp.

Fishing techniques for Carp are also something that should be understood. These are not set-in stone rules but general techniques. Carp are by nature very spooky, so casting right on top of them will most likely scare them off. It is best, especially when sight fishing, to cast nearby or in the direction in which they are moving. Since Carp are normally found over muddy bottoms you can often attract them by stirring up the bottom with your fly. Simply let your fly sink to the bottom and give it a good strip, if it leaves a cloud of mud then your doing it correctly and keep an eye out for Carp coming to investigate.

There is a good reason why Carp have earned the nickname, "freshwater Bonefish." Both fish are very spooky, and make incredible runs when hooked. However, Carp generally grow to much larger sizes and most likely inhabit waters that are very close to you. Once you realize how amazing these fish are when hooked, you'll be addicted to Carp fishing, so give it a try.