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Crunching Carp

When it comes to the "Crunch" ---- To the dedicated rod, reel and running line angler, trying to stop a carp on a pole is a bit like trying to stop an elephant with a piece of string, but the method works and "carp crunching" is not only a brilliant method when fishing is difficult but a technique that stands in its own right on still waters. The mixed still -water fishery is now the mainstay of the fresh water scene and the versatility of the pole is an essential part of the angler's armoury.

There are plenty of pole on the market which are dedicated to this type of fishing and Daiwa have the Harrier X Trio which goes to 14 meters and takes up to a No 14 laccy and the Tornado Carp Z Mark 2 at 12.5 m which can take up to a No16 elastic. Ideal for taming those chunky commons or tackling the tench and bream that make up the bulk of the catches. Team this up with a size 16 barbless hook and a 4 to 5 lbs line, add a Daiwa Pro Carp float of .5 or .7 gms and your in business

To tackle the water first locate your fish by checking out feature such as reed beds, lilies or other cover that your target fish might use and then maximise the top feature of the pole. That is the ability to place the hook bait tight, and I mean tight , to a feature and in the same spot time and time again. Steadily build the swim with trout pellets and maggots or sweetcorn and wait for the action. If you want to be really accurate with the loose feed then the cup is the answer, fixed to the end of your pole it is filled and then inverted over the spot you are feeding with deadly accuracy.

If you are new to the pole it will seem clumsy and awkward until you've had some practice, especially shipping it back with 5 lbs of angry fish on the other end . Don't worry though, let the elastic do the work and the fish tire before you start to bring it to the net . If you have never used a pole before then try and beg or borrow one to checkout how they handle so when you come to buy, then you have some idea of what to look for, that will suit your style of fishing and keep practicing.

The beauty of this method is that it will catch you fish all year through, especially when the going gets tough so give it a try, and let us know how you get on.