If you want to start carp fishing, you'll first need to buy a lot of equipment. On the other hand, it's important to choose wisely so as to buy the bare minimum. The influence of social networks, fashions... can quickly lead to buying fever, resulting in the purchase of equipment that is absolutely unnecessary.
Rods and reels
Regulations in many places allow you to fish with four rods. To get off to a good start, and to avoid a non-negligible additional cost, I advise you to start with two rods and two reels. This will make management much simpler, with many advantages (savings, more thoughtful strategy, rapid set-up, mobility...).
Fishnet
The landing net is a must, of course. It needs to be large and made of fish-friendly materials.
Stakes and detectors
Once again, two simple stakes, together with sensors and balancers, are all you need to get started. So, yes, stakes aren't always easy to install, but in the vast majority of cases, they'll do the trick at a fraction of the cost. You can even do without rear stakes.
Reception equipment
Modern carp fishing is all about respecting the fish. A Partner Mat landing mat and a catch-and-release bag such as a STB Weight Sling are therefore essential for good fishing practice and photo management.
Luggage
Here again, there's no need for superfluous luggage to get you started. For starters, you don't even need a scabbard or individual covers. Neoprene bands and protectors are ideal to hold your rods and landing net in place during transport.
A Flap Rock Sack type backpack is ideal for storing all your small tackle and bait.
Propulsion equipment
To be able to bait in a variety of ways and with a variety of baits, you'll need a boilie launcher and a slingshot. With these two tools you'll be able to cope with a wide range of situations and vary your baiting strategies.
What about night fishing equipment?
I think it's best to stick to day fishing for starters. In fact, it will be easier to progress with day fishing than to mix day and night fishing. And if you've really got the bug and are beginning to master it, it will be possible at a later stage to invest in night fishing (I'll advise you in the same spirit).
With this equipment list, you've got everything you need to start day carp fishing. You can, of course, add to your tackle as you go along, but don't go the other way round. Our needs dictate our fishing purchases, not our desires or the effects of fashion. In the same spirit, and in a second article, I'll give you a list of small tackle essentials.
