As I am writing this we are currently well into the depths of winter. Admittedly, looking out of the window at the cold grey skies it isn’t very appealing, But the thought of what rewards might be, carp in prime condition showing their dark winter colours, quiet banks and atmospheric frosty mornings fit for a Christmas card keep me inspired to keep at it and chase that prize!
The bigger the challenge, the higher the reward.
A lot of my most memorable captures have been had over the colder months. Choosing the right venue and approach there can still be plenty of action to be had after most people have hung up the gear till spring.
Sometimes it can even be easier than summer fishing if you can find the carp! keeping things nice and simple with solid bag tactics, paying attention to location more than anything is always key.
I will pick and choose when I go, as there’s not much point in setting up when the lake is looking likely that it may freeze over.im always looking for changes in the weather. A slight shift in temperatures going into milder stormy conditions have always worked well for me.
One particular session in mid February always springs to mind. It was one of these named storms (forgive me, I can’t remember which one) there where high winds overnight and sudden unseasonably high temperatures. The winds where probably a bit dangerous to be out in, but luckily I had plotted up at the end of a large woodland with the other side of the trees about 300 yards away taking the brunt of the damage, being quite sheltered and safe in my position.
Knowing the bite time was usually like clockwork at 7pm, I was sitting very confident after watching numerous shows over my rods as the light faded earlier on. Little did I know just how prolific the action would be though, Landing a total of 11 carp overnight! Including a triple take as part of it too.
An epic looking fully scaled being the cherry on the cake.
It’s sessions like these that make up for the effort and persistence but it does happen and will happen, it’s more than worthwhile. We are blessed to have a variety of seasons in this country, so why not get out there and make the most of every one of them.
Tony Payne
