There seems to be a belief among some that you can fish shallow on the pole for carp and F1s with similar tactics – but that isn’t the case. They are different fish that behave in very different ways. This must be reflected in how you go about your business if you want to succeed.
Carp are much more easily spooked, and appear to take greater caution when feeding in the upper layers. This is when mugging can be incredibly effective and if you get it right, it can be unbeatable.
IF YOU ENJOY CATCHING CARP SHALLOW, HERE ARE SOME GREAT TIPS TO HELP YOU CATCH MORE!
Chasing shadows
If you can see carp on the surface, it’s best not to introduce any loosefeed. These fish are cruising and enjoying the sun, completely disinterested in feeding, and noise can spook them. You’re aiming to quietly drop a hookbait directly into their path and get them to instinctively snap it up. Standing up helps you get a better view of what’s on the surface.
THE BEST FISHING POLES WILL HELP YOU ACCURATELY PLACE YOUR HOOKBAIT IN FRONT OF CARP.
Loosefeed lightly
On days when you can’t see fish on the surface, go easy on the loosefeed. If fish are swooping through and only eating a couple of pellets at a time, you must make absolutely sure your hookbait is one of them. Fire in two pellets every minute and frequently slap the rig on the surface to make an attractive noise.
A STABLE SEATBOX WILL HELP YOU FISH COMFORTABLY THROUGHOUT YOUR SESSION!
Rely on two floats
A buoyant dibber is the best float when fishing up to 16ins deep. It will sit instantly once in the water, allowing you to spot bites immediately. Position all the shot directly under the float so that the hookbait falls slowly. For swims deeper than 16ins, however, a small, bristled float with the bulk set at half depth is more stable than a dibber.
IF YOU STRUGGLE TYING POLE RIGS, HERE IS AN EXPERT GUIDE TO HELP YOU.
Stand out hookbaits
Fish feeding on the bottom will take their time looking for food, and will graze at their leisure, whereas those sitting shallow will move at a more rapid pace. A hookbait that stands out from any loosefeed will increase the chances of it being taken first. A red or very light brown 6mm or 8mm hard pellet is the ideal choice for carp.
YOU WILL NEED ONE OF THE BEST LANDING NETS FOR ALL THE EXTRA CARP YOU WILL CATCH WITH THESE TIPS!
