Tackle Overview
The array of carp tackle available to today's carp angler is bewildering. To anyone starting out in carp fishing the range of carp tackle is huge and knowing where to begin can be daunting. Once you have the basics sorted out, you will want to start thinking about some of the accessories which may help you catch more or bigger carp.
On this page I will discuss some of those items and explain what they are, how to use them, what makes them work and what to look for when making your decisions. As always, I welcome your input to this section. If you have used an item of carp tackle which you think deserves a mention, then tell me about your experiences and perhaps I can include it.
Choosing a Rod
Choosing the appropriate Carp rod may seem overwhelming when you see all the different choices you have. Narrowing it down can be made much simpler if you take certain things into account.
Rod Length
The length of a Carp rod can vary anywhere from 10 to 13 feet. For close in work or stalking, a 10 foot rod would be best. For distance fishing where a good line pick up is required on a strike, 13 feet is best. If what you are looking for is a general purpose, all-around rod then 11 to 12 feet is a good bet. Just remember that a quality Carp rod is generally 2-piece.
Test Curve
The strength of a Carp rod is called it's Test Curve. This is the amount of wheight, when applied to the rod's tip, that will bend the rod at a ninety-degree angle. The test curve determines how easily the rod bends under pressure from a fish. A good all-around rod should have a 2 1/2 lb. test curve. If the carp you are going to catch are on the smaller side then try a rod with a 1 1/2 to 2 lb. test curve. If you are planning to cast to the moon, perhaps with a method feeder attached, then try a 3 lb. test curve.
Line Factor
As a guide to help you decide, look at the strength of line you expect to be using. If you multiply the test curve of the carp rod by five, it should determine the required test curve of the rod to suit it. A line strength of 10 lbs therefore would be well suited to a 2lb test curve carp rod. Remember, choose a carp rod carefully and it will last a lifetime, but the wrong type of rod can spoil your fishing, be uncomfortable and maybe even cause you to loose that trophy you have been waiting for.
Reel Choice
Most carp fisherman use spinning reels. Dont skimp on the size, you need one that holds at least 250 yds of 10 lb line. Although in most cases you wont have anywhere near that amount of line out, when you decide to load up with 12-15 lbs line or more & hook into the fish of a lifetime you will be glad to have such a reel.
As far as choosing a specific reel,I have one word to say... Baitrunners... That's all you need to know. A baitrunner is a spinning reel that has a lever that puts the reel in a free-spool mode. This allows the fish to take line without feeling any resistance. Much as the clicker does on some bait-casting reels. The advantage of the free-spool feature is that it allows the fish to run free with the bait under constant light tension. This tension keeps the line from uncoiling on its own as it would if you just opened the bail. When you re-engage the lever on a baitrunner, the normal drag takes over allowing you to fight the fish normally.
It is very important to find a reel that matches the rod you have chosen. A good balanced combo is most important. It is a good idea to buy both your rod and your reel at the same time. Try different reels on the rod of your choice. The most important thing to remember is to have a rod and reel combo that is balanced.
