Carp Fishing

The amount of tackle available to catch carp successfully is growing annually. There are now literally hundreds, if not thousands, of different companies in the market place advertising equipment for sale. This has both its good and bad points, but it is worth pointing out that one of the most difficult things for any newcomer to the sport is avoiding being drawn into buying everything that is financially possible. It is our experience that you do not need every single item of tackle, and a lot of the time you can get away with making some of the simpler items for yourself, thus saving more money.

Many of you may find yourselves lost amongst the large array of modern carp fishing tackle, and indeed many of you will find it a very tedious job deciding what tackle best suits your needs. Although the majority of tackle shops are excellent at advising you when purchasing the right tackle for your first steps in carp fishing, one cannot help thinking that in some cases beginners are seen as easy pickings for a good sale.

THE CARP ROD

Terminology

What is a carp rod? Fundamentally speaking, it is a tool used for playing a fish, but it also has the secondary function of casting a bait. Advancements in technology have delivered to today's angler a vast range of carp rods. A simple browse through the adverts reveals a maze of pictures and words of how all are far superior to one another. Try not to lose yourself amongst such marketing hype, as it is a safe bet that many of those advertised are way above the price range you actually need to spend to fulfill your needs. Don't be too disheartened by this, as we can assure you that the Rod Hutchinsons of the world all started with very basic tackle. Before we take a look at selecting a rod and its functions, we will begin with a brief glossary of terms:

Action: Describes the performance of a carp rod with regard to its flexibility or stiffness.

Blank: Used to describe the carp rod before the reel fittings, rings and final varnish (known as the finish) are added.

Butt end: The thickest end of the rod (the handle).

Tip end: The thinnest end of the rod (the top eye).

Test curve: The weight needed to pull the tip end of the rod down till it is at right angles to the butt end. The heavier the weight needed, the stiffer the rod.

Tip action or stiff rod: A rod that is more flexible towards the tip end and better for casting long distances.

Through action or soft rod: A rod that is very flexible throughout and better for playing fish.