Autumn carp fishing on small rivers, the right time

© Olivier Lalouf

Carp fishing on small rivers offers some wonderful surprises. Autumn is the ideal season to dislodge beautiful carp in these difficult-to-reach environments. Let's go carp fishing in rivers together.

Little virgin rivers

The small rivers of the lowlands are not often fished and offer an extraordinary playground for those who like to experiment with untrained and totally wild fish. These rivers, which vary in width from 5 to 20 meters, are often well stocked with carp, both mirrors and larger or smaller individuals. Great moments of emotion are often experienced on these rivers, but they are also very difficult to fish due to their congestion and difficult access. They are, however, ideal for carp fishing when it's time to stock up on food before the long winter months.

In fact, as temperatures gradually drop, carp metabolism means they need to feed more to cope with winter. In rivers, carp expend more energy and therefore have more needs, but long-term baiting is not necessarily necessary. I prefer express fishing lasting 2 to 4 hours maximum.

Pas plus de deux cannes au ras des obstacles
No more than two rods at obstacle level

In action

Once you've scouted the spots carefully, don't set up more than two rods flush with the obstacles, as this will guarantee success. Lines are fitted with self-fastening jigs and reel spools with larger-diameter nylon, 35 or even 40 hundredths.

The mounts are carefully placed along submerged trees or other shrubs overhanging the river. On top, I add a few 14 mm diameter boilies, no more than 10 in the flavor of your choice. Personally, I prefer my own crayfish- and anodont-based boilies on the hair, but you'll need the same scent in a larger diameter. 20 mm is a good compromise.

Apply the brakes as tightly as possible so that the carp don't take too much line at the start, and set up close to the rods, ready to pounce at the slightest touch. Most bites usually occur within half an hour of the lines being cast.

The beep sounds, the rod is quickly taken in hand and a sensational fight ensues with unforgettable emotions. The fight is tough and long, but when the fish finally emerges from its burrow to fight in less crowded water, landing is easy and satisfying, especially on very beautiful subjects.

Une magnifique commune sortie des arbres
A magnificent commune out of the trees
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