Carp Rigs

Do we really need to worry about the type of rig used?

Using a rig that is appropriate for the fishing venue would definitely help with catch rate. It could mean the difference between catching something and blanking, or even provide better success when chasing the bigger, wiser carp. For example, it may not pay to use clear rig tubing when fishing over a dark coloured lake bed, the tubing could be holding air causing it to show up clearly on the bottom. Any carp rig would work better if concealed effectively. There’s a much better chance a carp will take the hook bait if it can’t see a rig. In another situation you may be using the perfect rig for the chosen lake but a bigger hook size could render it useless. As like most tips for carp fishing a small change here or there could make a big difference in what the fish see, feel or smell.

You should understand that just because a certain rig helped catch a few carp on one lake doesn’t mean it will work on another similar lake. The way the fish feed or the type of rigs the fish have been exposed to on a regular basis may reduce a rig’s effectiveness. The rig used should be adapted to the fishing venue as well as adapting to changes in ways fish feed. This may mean changing the rig during a fishing session as and when you learn about the carp’s movements and habits.

I believe the most important points to remember when fishing on the bottom is:

	Keep them simple!
	Match the rig components with the colour of the lake bed
	Make sure all the rig is pinned down hard on the bottom

Here are links to some of my favourite carp fishing rigs:

A Critically Balanced Fake Pellet Rig   &   How Pellet Rig Looks in Water