We have seen that carp gather in holding areas where they feel comfortable. Once we've identified these zones, we can practice different types of fishing that go beyond the sensations felt to achieve good results. Let's get them where they are!
The Zig Rig
When the thermocline is present, the surface and bottom layers do not mix. As a result, carp sometimes spend a lot of time near this layer of water. To catch them, there's a solution: the zig rig! This type of fishing involves fishing between the bottom and the surface. You adapt the length of your leader to the height at which the carp are active. Of course, you use floating baits (coloured foam, boilies, etc.) so that the whole leader takes off.
The call of the zig rig is often felt when, in the middle of the day, we're waiting for THE hit! It's highly likely, especially when the whole water is affected by this observation, that zig fishing will have to be attacked. This makes it ideal for situations where fishing is blocked.
I work on the principle that it's better to be active in your fishing and try something than to wait for hours for a possible start. Nothing ventured, nothing gained. I insist on knowing your surroundings.
Indeed, it's important to try this technique when you're familiar with the stock and their habits. A layer of inhabited water, a rhythmic and appetizing baiting will allow you to experience magical moments.
I'll come back to this in more detail in a future article.
Fishing on the surface!
Surface fishing is also an alternative technique for catching carp when they are flush with water. And what better time to try this approach than in summer, when you can escape to the water's edge with little equipment, lightly surveying the most remote spots.
Some playgrounds are more suitable than others. There's no point being stubborn if you never see carp on the surface. This type of fishing provides unforgettable moments without overloading you with equipment or taking up a lot of your time.
So adapted to the rhythm of summer! I like to fish opportunistically. Don't forget the tourist spots where many people, regardless of their will, bait our beloved cyprins. The best!
Harbors on certain lakes, restaurants along the banks... It's up to you to find these fish on the surface and determine the best times to get them to bite, as they're not always determined despite their presence.
Rode fishing
Rode fishing can also be very effective when carried out at the right times of day. I often do this type of fishing in shallow areas where fish activity only lasts a few hours. I love to do this early in the morning when dissolved oxygen levels are well up.
The evening strike is often less effective as the water temperature remains very high and oxygen levels low. This light fishing allows you to be up and running in a very short time, and to get good results with a good knowledge of the fishing grounds. You can then fish several stations in just a few hours. A real treat and a sure bet.
For me, these three approaches are king in summer. They allow you to be fully active in your fishing and therefore to adapt to the conditions and therefore to the behavior of the carp. Properly implemented, these approaches will give you real efficiency.
My approach to summer can be summed up in two words: alternate and optimize.
