Whether you’re new to fishing or already ruler of the rod, carp fishing is a fun way to try out this challenging sport.
Carp are satisfyingly hard to catch but easily found in local bodies of water. When you go, be sure to release any carp you catch into the same waters you fished them from to avoid contributing to the problem of invasive carp.
1. Carp Can Be Found in Many Rivers and Lakes
For carp fishing, you’ll need a fishing license for the area you plan to fish, and carp fishing equipment like a rod, bait, and line.
The good news is you won’t have to travel far to find these fish. Your local lake or pond is likely to be teeming with carp for your fishing enjoyment. Carp are readily available in local lakes and rivers in every state in the US but Alaska!
2. Carp Put Up a Fight—And That’s What Makes It Fun
With their sudden bursts of energy and sturdy builds, carp will give you and your bait a run for your money. Don’t expect them to go down without a fight; they’re one of the feistiest freshwater fish around.
Trying to keep them on the line will build plenty of camaraderie and laughter with your friends or family and provide memories for years to come.
3. Carp Bait Can Be Made From Common Household Items
Looking to save some money while trying out your new hobby?
Don’t worry about spending tons of cash on specialized carp bait. Carp is an omnivorous species, meaning they eat both meat and plant products.
Believe it or not, carp are very likely to go after an item you probably already have in your kitchen—sweet, canned corn. The combination of sweet and salty is tantalizing to carp, and corn kernels are easy to thread right onto your hook.
One fisherman swears by his “Original Carp Bait” recipe, which consists of flour, cornmeal, sugar, vanilla, and strawberry Jell-O. Whichever bait you try, you won’t break the bank.
4. Carp Are Delicious
If you decide to take your newly acquired carp home rather than catch and release it, you’re in for a tasty treat.
Carp meat is tender and flaky with a minimally “fishy” taste. Carp are versatile: you can fry, smoke, and even pickle them. Texas Parks and Wildlife provides mouthwatering recipes to try.
Lemon butter or tomato sauces are the perfect complement for this delectable fish. For best results, skin the fish before preparing it.
Heading Out
Now that you’re ready to go catch some carp, be sure to keep in mind that having fun is the most important part.
Even if the tricky carp gets away, your time on the water will provide lasting memories. Because you can find carp in local bodies of water and bait them with common pantry staples, you can try out this new pastime without spending a lot of money.
If you’re lucky, you might even get to take one home for dinner!
