Carp 101 - The First 2 Weeks

[mcfly]

(07-25-2013 10:20 AM)alex_fish Wrote:  I went out last night to the Bluffs to try my hand at some carping. I baited with some corn near the boat launch and could see bubbles emanating from several spots near the baited area. I was using a simple hair rig and was clearly getting bites as my float would momentarily dip down from time to time. So the fish were there. Note that I couldn't sight them as it was getting dark. Now, although there were lots of bites, it seemed that no fish wanted to commit to the bait so none were getting hooked. I did at one point notice that the float slowly started moving and I managed to set the hook but it was shaken free moments after.
So I am wondering: Why so many bites but no commitment. Could it be I was doing something wrong?
Also, I had the float set up quite high from the sinkers to allow them to bottom out. I am assuming this is typical as opposed to having the bait suspended and floating above the bottom.

The corn was probably being eaten by Goby. We have a hard time keeping those guys away from our baits. Try using rubber corn or hard boilies, that way those pesky fish dont bother you!

I don't use floats, especially for carp fishing as I need the bait on the bottom. If it's dark, I'll put a glowstick on the end of my rod tip to indicate hits. Remember, at the boat launch, the birds are your friends. They are the ones that guide the carp pod.

Funny thing is, I was there at the bluffs last night too at another spot catching carp with a friend who caught a goldfish. MichaelAngelo actually stopped by to say hi too!

Here's one of the carp I got yesterday, small size but looked pretty unique as the body was taller and coloured white/greyish. Put up a decent fight too.