Float Fishing Rods

Many carp anglers are using flat, unchanging setups now. Some people may even think that float fishing for carp is dead; however this can be one of the most exciting methods for catching big fish.   

Many carp anglers become bored of fishing with static set-ups at great distances and sometimes do not even cast a rod but use a bait boat instead. To those of you who have this problem, whip out a float rod so you can have fun!  

This method is very simple. You only need a float and a hook. I use a light action, carp rod that is about 1.5lbs to 2lbs which makes for exciting fishing in close quarters and a lightweight coarse reel.  

You should use a good monofilament line; the Daiwa Sensor is an excellent choice. Breaking strains depend on whether the waters you’re fishing have weeds or other obstructions. You can use a tinier diameter if the water is clear like from 8lbs to 10lbs, and you can go up depending on the conditions.   

I like to use 10lbs or lower because I get more enjoyment that way. There are several floats offered for carp fishing. However I personally only have around five in my tackle box, and they cover me in all circumstances. When fishing the normal float layout, I use a self weighted float. This saves me time in set up and I can swap and change simply when fishing a different distance.  

I never cast out at great distances, I pretty much just drop the float to marginal things like lily pads or weed beds. I only require enough weight to cast my float a short distance so a float that is pre-weighted is ideal when flicking out my hook bait. If I am trying to catch carp that are on the drop or spooky, I don’t attach shot to my line, but when trying to get the bait on the lake fast, I put a small shot or even rig putty three inches away from my hook bait so it will go to the bottom fast.  

The size of the hook is very important because the hook size needs to match that of the hook bait. Many fishermen think you need large hooks to catch carp, but this isn’t true. I usually use hooks between 12 and 16, and  I rarely lose a fish because of a pulled hook. Hair-rigs aren’t necessary; just mount the bait on your hook and go. Don’t forget to take an unhooking mat.   

Fish around features that carp are likely to visit and keep sprinkling loose feed to get their attention when they get near. I like bait that moves like worms or maggots.  It is as easy as that; you’ll get a huge thrill when you see that float glide away before the rod even bends. Never be bored again.