Any carp fisherman here?
Hair rig?
Whats your rig and how do you fish it?
We use long shank hooks, kind of thread the kernels on the entire hook, be sure to cover the point and barb as their mouth are really sensitive, slip sinker and tiny split shot to keep the slip sinker about 18" from hook, fished on the bottom. Keep the reel bale open, i.e. free spool so there's no resistance. Minimize the slack in the line so we can see any taps our pickups and let them run a bit before setting the hook. It's a blast when you see than line ripping off the reel when they pick it up. I've fished for them like this for almost 60 years. My dad did it for years before that. While we have caught them through out the day, it is especially fun at night and into the wee hours.
My Grandma taught us how to clean, and prepare the small ones. Key is to cut out the mud vein. When taken from clean bodies of water they are actually really good eaten. Despite what many people think. We've converted many skeptics over the years;)
They were actually introduced here for their food value. Still a staple in Asia.
And anyone that thinks they aren't "game" fish haven't hooked a big one. They will pull and fight as long and hard as anything out there. And they will find any weaknesses in one's gear. Best to use stout gear.
Yes.... I love carp fishing!
Pat
