“Bait vs Tackle: Striking the Right Balance for Angling Success”

Posted on May 15, 2024 by richardhandel

“Bait vs Tackle: Striking the Right Balance for Angling Success”

Introduction: In the world of angling, the debate between investing in high-end tackle versus premium bait has been a longstanding point of contention. Richard sheds light on the often-overlooked significance of bait, urging anglers to reconsider their priorities. Through a thought-provoking exploration, he challenges the norm and advocates for a more balanced approach to angling essentials.

Chapter 1: “The Expensive Tackle Conundrum” Richard opens with a candid observation of how anglers tend to splurge on top-tier tackle while allocating only a fraction of their budget to bait. He questions the logic behind this common practice and sets the stage for a reevaluation of angling priorities.

Chapter 2: “Bait: The Uncelebrated Hero” Drawing parallels between match anglers and traditional carp anglers, Richard emphasizes the bait-centric approach of successful match fishing. He encourages readers to glean insights from match anglers’ methods, recognizing the art of attraction as a pivotal factor in angling success.

Chapter 3: “Every Angler a Match Angler” In a reflective tone, Richard prompts anglers to view their fishing endeavors as a form of competition, whether on a day ticket water against fellow anglers or against the natural food sources in a secluded lake. He underscores the importance of attraction and the strategic use of bait in this angling context.

Chapter 4: “Beyond Boilies: Understanding Attraction” Dissociating attraction from the exclusive realm of boilies, Richard advocates for a broader understanding of what attracts carp. He encourages anglers to engage with match anglers, tapping into their knowledge of ground bait, liquid attraction, and effective feeding strategies.

Chapter 5: “Investing in Attraction: A Worthy Expense” Challenging the notion of frugality when it comes to bait, Richard explores the effectiveness of investing in quality attraction. He discusses the rationale behind using generous amounts of liquid attractants, debunking myths and underscoring the tangible benefits.

Chapter 6: “Comfort vs Catch: A Personal Dilemma” As anglers navigate tackle shops, Richard poses a poignant question: Should one prioritize comfort and aesthetics over the effectiveness of bait? He challenges readers to ponder their angling goals and reassess the true value of the gear they invest in.

Chapter 7: “Spotted Fin: A Case for Quality Bait” Highlighting companies like Spotted Fin that dedicate significant resources to research and testing, Richard showcases how a focus on attraction and ground bait can yield exceptional results. He invites anglers to consider such companies as valuable partners in enhancing their angling experience.

Conclusion: Richard concludes by reiterating the need for a balanced approach, urging anglers to reflect on their angling priorities. Whether it’s spending on a bivvy or investing in premium bait, he leaves readers with a crucial choice — the pursuit of comfort or the pursuit of more carp on the bank.

Outro: Till next time, happy angling!

Richard

Posted in Carp fishing | Tagged | Leave a comment

My favourite hideaway

Posted on May 14, 2024 by richardhandel

Out for a few nights on the Swampy tree’s.

Posted in Carp fishing | Tagged | Leave a comment

Carp fishing for experienced anglers

Posted on May 13, 2024 by richardhandel

20220113_091823

Carp fishing for experienced anglers can be a challenging and rewarding sport. Carp are smart, powerful and elusive fish that require skill, patience and strategy to catch. Experienced anglers can try different venues, baits, rigs and tactics to improve their chances of landing a trophy carp. Here are some tips and resources for advanced carp fishing:

  • Explore new waters: Carp fishing can become stale if you fish the same water over and over again. Try to find new venues that offer different features, depths, sizes and stocks of carp. You can use online platforms, such as Carp Fisher, to discover new carp fisheries in the UK and read reviews from other anglers.
  • Experiment with baits: Carp can become wary of certain baits if they see them too often. To keep them interested, you can try different types, sizes, colours and flavours of baits, such as boilies, pellets, particles, pop-ups, wafters, etc. You can also make your own baits or customise them with additives, dips and glugs.
  • Refine your rigs: Carp fishing rigs are essential for presenting your bait effectively and hooking the carp securely. There are many different types of rigs, such as hair rigs, chod rigs, hinge stiff rigs, multi rigs, etc. You can learn how to tie them and when to use them from online guides, such as Angling Direct. You can also tweak your rigs to suit the conditions, the bait and the behaviour of the carp.
  • Master your tactics: Carp fishing tactics are the strategies and techniques that you use to locate, attract, and catch carp. Many factors can influence your tactics, such as the season, the weather, the time of day, the water temperature, the water clarity, the pressure, etc. You can learn from the experts and get tips and advice from online podcasts, such as The Carp Cast. You can also develop your own tactics based on your experience and observation.

These are some of the ways that experienced anglers can enhance their carp fishing skills and enjoy the sport more. Carp fishing is a lifelong learning process that can always be improved and refined. The more you fish, the more you learn. Good luck and tight lines! 🎣

Until next time

Richard

sf

 

asso
deeper_black_preview
wp-15839497464748573160201168129655.jpg

 

500x500-3-3
 

See the source image

Posted in Carp fishing | Tagged | Leave a comment

Trip 14 Carp Fishing – 2024

Posted on May 9, 2024 by richardhandel

3 Nights

Estate Lake

20240418_193347

I have a few nights of social plans with Ian at the club lake. Unfortunately, a day angler who arrived before us is pitched up in the area we were hoping for. However, he is off at 1500 hrs, which still gives us plenty of time to move in there, if we still fancy it.

20240417_114349

Currently, I’m pitched up with only two rods on the side of a small island, using my baiting pole to find the perfect spot, single hook bait, and tiny bags. I’ve not really seen much and walked around three times. Hopefully, these few hours will help us locate the carp before we settle in properly, late or early depending on what we actually decide to do.

20240417_142547

I gave it until 1330 hrs and then moved around the corner. Ian had unfortunately forgotten his bivvy and had to pop home. It felt like the right time to spend a couple of hours somewhere else.

1600 hrs came around, and we were now setting up the area we need to be social in and oddly the same swim as last week for me. The skies had cleared, the clouds had gone, and the odd light rain showers had finally passed. By 1830, we were all sorted, which was perfect.

20240417_173032

The first evening and night passed without any carp. We stayed up late chatting and soaking up the atmosphere of this secluded water, with only the two of us fishing.

The night was warmer than expected, and it was a very sunny start to the day. It continued until late afternoon. By then, the wind had swung around to the southwest, which I thought would be warmer, but that wind had a wicked chill to it. However, the conditions now felt a lot more favourable than before. There was one other guy booked on, and he was at the opposite end to us, which hopefully would start to push the carp about more. Tomorrow night will be the one, as it is fully booked.

20240418_193412

Unfortunately, the second night panned out like the first, with no bites. I was hoping that the warmer night would improve our chances. Maybe the influx of Friday night anglers would help, but there’s a chance of a frost tonight. I’m starting to feel like our timing is off, but you can only go when you can and take the weather as it comes. It’s amazing how little carp activity there has been since last Sunday. I reckon I saw more carp shows in an hour than I have in the past couple of days.

Just after 1430, the middle rod was away. I picked the rod up and pulled in a tench, but it felt a bit better than the average one. It had me in the lily pads for some time, to the point I had to slacken my line off and hope it would move without shedding the hook. There was a flap of the tail on the surface; time to apply pressure, and it was soon out and on its way to the net. It was a very long fish, and I was hoping it would turn out to be a specimen size. It tipped the scales at 7lb 6oz, a nice result.

20240419_140908

The rod was soon back on the spot.

We, my social trip, are coming to an end. Another tench picked up my bait yesterday afternoon, but the carp have remained elusive for myself and Ian. I believe there were a couple of fish out last night, but I’m not certain if they were carp.

With another bright sunny start to the day, I will start packing up around 0845 and then head home. I can only fit a couple of day trips in next week, as the wife is away for work. I’m not 100% sure where they will be, as I’ve not had much success here or on the Airfield Lake in the day. It makes a bit of sense to actually fish here and learn a bit more. We shall see.

Until next time,

Richard

sf

asso
wp-15839497464748573160201168129655.jpg

th

Get 10% off Deeper With Code – RICHARD10

See the source image

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is screenshot_20230421_031133_facebook.jpg

Posted in Carp fishing | Tagged | 1 Comment

“Simplify and Succeed: 12 Steps for an Effortless Fishing Experience”

Posted on May 8, 2024 by richardhandel

“Simplify and Succeed: 12 Steps for an Effortless Fishing Experience”

Introduction: In the pursuit of a fulfilling fishing experience, organization and preparation play a pivotal role. Richard, an angling enthusiast with a knack for optimizing his fishing routine, shares 12 invaluable steps that transformed his fishing life. From meticulous kit organization to strategic planning, these steps are designed to simplify and enhance every fishing trip.

Chapter 1: “Ready, Set, Fish” Richard emphasizes the importance of keeping fishing gear organized and ready to go. The key is to replenish essential items immediately after returning from a trip, ensuring that everything is in top condition for the next adventure.

Chapter 2: “Bait Confidence” Preparing bait a few days before the trip not only enhances confidence but also allows storage in optimal conditions. Richard details how this simple step can contribute to a more effective and stress-free fishing experience.

Chapter 3: “Rig Mastery” Constructing rigs at home rather than on the bank ensures precision and reduces the need for excessive rigging equipment on-site. Richard walks through the benefits of rig preparation in the comfort of home.

Chapter 4: “Travel Light” Minimizing the amount of kit taken to the bank is crucial. Richard shares his approach of using a small tackle box with just enough rig components for ten setups, emphasizing the value of simplicity.

Chapter 5: “Zone Out, Zone In” Transitioning from work mode to fishing mode is essential for a focused and enjoyable angling experience. Richard explains how this mental shift during the journey to the lake can set the tone for a successful trip.

Chapter 6: “Weather Wisdom” Checking the weather beforehand provides insights into potential carp locations and swim options. Richard cautions against overwhelming oneself with swim choices, advocating for a balanced approach.

Chapter 7: “Routine Rituals” Establishing consistent patterns, from loading and unloading the car to setting up the bivvy or brolly, creates a routine that becomes second nature. Richard shares how these habits contribute to a smoother fishing routine.

Chapter 8: “Maintenance Mindset” Taking note of items that need topping up or replacing while on the bank ensures that gear remains in optimal condition. Richard explains the importance of this proactive approach to tackle maintenance.

Chapter 9: “Baiting with Precision” Avoiding haste during baiting is crucial. Richard emphasizes the significance of taking time to ensure sharp hooks, proper rig presentation, and the overall condition of the setup.

Chapter 10: “Bivvy Brilliance” A well-organized bivvy or brolly layout facilitates efficient fishing, especially during low-light conditions. Richard shares the benefits of having a consistent arrangement that enhances familiarity.

Chapter 11: “Tackle Bag Tidiness” Regularly sorting out the tackle bag prevents unnecessary clutter. Richard discusses the importance of periodically revisiting tackle organization to streamline the essentials.

Chapter 12: “Bag Separation Strategy” Having separate bags for specific kit categories adds convenience, especially for day trips. Richard provides insights into creating an organized system that allows for easy customization based on the fishing scenario.

Conclusion: Richard concludes by highlighting the simplicity and practicality of these 12 steps. By incorporating these habits into one’s fishing routine, anglers can transform their experiences, making each trip more enjoyable and successful.

Posted in Carp fishing | Tagged | Leave a comment