ASK THE EXPERTS
Dear Panel,
I will be fishing some carp matches this year and wondered if you could give me some tips on fishing efficiently?
Yours faithfully,
A. Evans.
Hello Mr. Evans,
Carp matches are certainly something different to what we are all used to, and definitely need a different approach to your regular angling, but they can be very enjoyable and rewarding.
I only fish the British Championship pairs matches held around the country every year, and have chosen a different venue every year because we try to treat it as an enjoyable weekend with the chance to fish somewhere different. This doesn’t mean, however, that we don’t take it seriously! Don’t leave your choice of venue or competition until the last minute, leaving yourself little time to get a feel for the place before your match and pin down a few locals!
Once you get an idea of the venue, you can start getting prepared for the type of angling you will be doing. Obviously, you don’t want to turn up with your distance tackle for a two-acre commercial puddle!
Most venues where carp matches are held fish very differently once a load of carp anglers start beating it with leads, spods, and markers, etc., so try to practise when the venue is very busy to see how the fish react to pressure. They could sit at a different level in the water or hide out of anglers’ reach, etc.
Partner Scott Day and me doing the business
Most competitions mean the dreaded draw for swims at the start, which is always fun! All your best-laid plans in certain swims can quickly disappear. This is where you have to be prepared mentally. Don’t just think that because you have come out of the bag near the end, and you haven’t got one of the swims you had in mind, that you’re out of it. I have seen plenty of anglers get results in this situation. Never throw in the towel.
Once you do discover a few edges or decent swim choices, keep your cards close to your chest – being a northerner this comes naturally!!
Just enjoy it, and good luck.
Shaun
PS. If we do come head-to-head one day, don’t beat me!
