Carp Fishing Tackle Guide

Posts Tagged ‘carp fishing equipment’

Looking at carp fishing rods, also called carp rods or carp poles, must be considered the very first logical step for any beginning or expert angler looking to jump into the recreational world of carp fishing.  A good carp rod is the backbone of the rest of your equipment and will help to determine the success (or lack of) your fishing experience.  While the basics of fishing for carp are the same, and it doesn’t always take the most expensive gear to pull it off, you still should know about the many considerations that go into having the right gear so if a giant carp hits your carp bait, you don’t lose your rod or equipment.

The best type of rods are going to be based on European designs since carp fishing has long been a popular past time there, while this is a sport that is still in its infancy of development in the U.S.  But as carp fishing grows in popularity in America, the market for carp specific poles has opened out immensely.

Medium action carp fishing rods are the most common carp rod available for general consumers.  This gives anglers the best combination of sensitive rod tips to sense fish hitting the bait, but the rod is also stiff enough to take on a solid amount of weight and strong test line.  The finest combination of these things is what makes the best fishing rod.  Anglers want to have the ability to at least have a chance at landing a trophy sized carp, but the rod shouldn’t be so stiff and difficult that smaller fish don’t put up a fight.

Fast action carp reels are designed to control carp and play them at a distance, adding to the enjoyment for the angler.  The additional power in the middle of the pole gives the ability to cast heavier leads a solid distance.  Even more incredible are the specialist carp rods, which in the hands of an experienced carp angler are capable of casting bait an amazing distance.

Most carp fishing rods will be 10 to 13 feet long, although this doesn’t mean that shorter fishing rods used for regular fishing can’t do well.  In fact, my dad caught a world record grass carp out of a small lake in Iowa with a rod that was only about 6 to 8 feet in length and designed for largemouth bass.  But the best designed rods that are specifically aimed at carp are going to be longer and normally fall into that larger 10 to 13 foot length.

Generally speaking, the most common compound used for producing carp fishing rods and reels is carbon monofilament. Older carp rods like antique fishing poles were actually made from glass or bamboo.  Glass was generally used for heavier rods, while bamboos was for fly anglers and fishers who wanted more of a fight.  Advancement in technology has led to newer materials translate into giving you the strength of the old rods without the weight.  Modern fishing rods are both lighter and stronger, and some high-end carp rods even have Kevlar.

As your skill grows, so will your knowledge of the market and your own personal preferences. Like any market you will find certain brand names that are most popular, brands that are known for quality, and brands that are known for being quality inexpensive brands.  Given enough time and experience, you will be able to figure out what is right for you. Currently popular on the market with prices set at $150 and up are Chub carp rods, Shimano carp rods and Greys carp Rods. Your first carp fishing rod is likely going to be like your first car: it will get you where you need to go but it should give you an idea of what you really want and what you’re willing to spend to get it.