Leslie Massey
Introduced to Australian waterways in the 1960s, carp (Cyprinus carpio) are now considered a pest in the country, causing major damage to the quality of inland waterways and native fish populations. Despite this, carp are a popular sport fish, and many anglers enjoy the challenge of catching them. In this article, we will explore tips and techniques for catching big carp in Australia, including choosing the right fishing rod, using the right bait, and finding the best locations for landing these giant fish. With the right knowledge and equipment, anglers can have a thrilling experience targeting these hard-fighting fish while also contributing to carp control efforts.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Best time to catch big carp | At night or at first light |
| Carp locations in Australia | Country rivers, lakes, dams, suburban rivers, creeks, Murray-Darling Basin |
| Carp weight | 7kg, 10kg, 11.15kg, 12kg |
| Bait | Sweet corn kernels, bread, hormones for breeding season |
| Fishing rod | Through Action Rod, Fast Tip Action Rod |
| Fishing style | Distance casting, stalking, float or margin fishing |
| Fishing rig | Running sinker rig, paternoster rig, light paternoster rig, simple float rig, running ball sinker rig |
| Hook size | 2-6, 4-12, 8 |
| Other methods | Electric field, fyke nets, pound nets, gill nets, seine nets, hopper traps, migratory traps |
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What You'll Learn
- Best fishing spots: country rivers, lakes, dams, suburban rivers and creeks
- Best fishing times: overnight, first light, afternoon into early darkness
- Best fishing equipment: shock-absorbing rods, fast-tip action rods
- Best fishing bait: sweetcorn, bread, small hooks, light rigs
- Fishing tips: think like a big fish, look for food, comfort and shelter; be patient
Best fishing spots: country rivers, lakes, dams, suburban rivers and creeks
South Australia is known for its diverse range of waterways and favourable climate, making it one of the best places in the world for carp fishing. The River Murray is a popular spot for anglers of all skill levels, with common carp, mirror carp, and leather carp all found in its waters. The Coorong, a long, narrow lake system in South Australia, is another top spot for carp fishing, offering the same variety of carp species as the River Murray. For those seeking a more remote and rugged experience, the Upper South East region of South Australia boasts crystal clear streams, lakes, and ponds that are ideal for carp fishing.
In country Victoria, carp fishing is also a popular pastime. Yarrawonga, in Northern Victoria, is known for its cod fishing in the Murray River, but it's also possible to catch large carp there, with some weighing up to 11kg.
When it comes to suburban rivers and creeks, you don't have to travel far to find big carp. The Yarra River, just a short drive from Melbourne, has produced carp weighing up to 12kg.
While carp can be found in a variety of waterways, there are some specific spots that tend to attract them. In lakes and dams, carp can often be found near weed beds, gravel patches, or structures, and these spots usually provide food, comfort, and shelter. Early morning or late afternoon are ideal times to fish for carp, as they are more active when the water is cooler.
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Best fishing times: overnight, first light, afternoon into early darkness
Although big carp can be caught at all times of the day, they are especially active at night. In Europe, carp specialists often camp overnight to catch big carp, and if you want to maximise your chances of catching one, this is a good strategy. However, if camping overnight is not for you, fishing at first light or into the early darkness can also be very productive.
Fishing at first light means getting an early start, but it can be well worth it. As the sun rises, the carp will start to feed, and you can take advantage of their morning feeding activity. Look for spots where there is likely to be food, such as near weed beds or gravel patches, and use a bait that is appropriate for the water you are fishing in. The attractiveness of your bait can depend on colour, smell, or movement, so choose something that the carp will find irresistible.
Fishing in the afternoon and into early darkness can also be a great time to target big carp. As the sun starts to set, the carp will become more active, and you can expect some intense fishing action. Again, think about the type of bait you are using and how it looks in the water. Big carp are wise and will avoid anything that looks suspicious, so make sure your bait looks natural.
Fishing at night, at first light, or into the early darkness can all be excellent times to catch big carp in Australia. Each has its advantages, and you may find that one works better for you than the others. The key is to get out there and give it a go, and with a bit of patience and the right bait, you'll be landing those big carp in no time.
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Best fishing equipment: shock-absorbing rods, fast-tip action rods
When it comes to carp fishing in Australia, you don't need to invest in expensive gear. Basic general-purpose rods are perfect for catching carp. A medium-weight rod with a 5-kilo line and a spinning reel in the 3000-4000 range is a good starting point. You can also use a general-purpose fishing rod around 7 feet in length with a 2-4 kilo or 3-5 kilo class line. This setup provides a good balance between enjoying the fight and maintaining control over the carp.
If you're specifically looking for shock-absorbing rods, "Through Action Rods" are an excellent choice. They evenly distribute the carp's energy from the tip to the grip, giving you greater control during the fight. These rods are ideal for margin fishing or fishing under the rod tip, where you need to quickly bring control back in your favour when a big carp bursts off.
For long-distance casting, a fast-tip action rod is recommended. These rods have a faster and stiffer action, allowing you to cast heavyweights of 2 to 4 ounces over a hundred metres or more. They have plenty of flex at the tip, transmitting energy quickly to a strong, solid base.
When choosing a carp fishing rod, consider the style of carp fishing you'll be pursuing. Different manufacturers offer top-quality rods suited to various fishing styles, including distance casting, stalking, float, or margin fishing. Additionally, centrepin reels are designed for close-in fishing styles like margin fishing or stalking, with a simple yet elegant design and a powerful one-to-one wind ratio.
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Best fishing bait: sweetcorn, bread, small hooks, light rigs
When it comes to bait, corn kernels, bread, and worms are all effective options for catching carp in Australia. Corn kernels, in particular, sweet corn, are considered a favourite among carp and can be purchased cheaply from any supermarket. Bread is also a great option, and some fishermen recommend adding a drop of vanilla, aniseed, or strawberry essence to make it even more appealing to carp.
When using corn, it is recommended to use a size 6 bait keeper hook or a size 10 long shank hook. You can also use small treble-style hooks, which are better suited for bread. A simple rig can be created by tying one of these hooks to the end of your line and fishing unweighted. This setup is ideal for fishing off a jetty or pontoon, or when carp are feeding close to the edges.
If you're using worms, a smaller hook is recommended, with a size 8 hook being ideal for tiger worms. For scrub worms, you can use a larger hook, and you can even put two worms on a size 2 hook.
It's important to pay close attention to your bait and check it regularly, as corn can lose flavour, bread can get soggy, and worms can die and become limp. Additionally, carp are not big strikers, so they may play with your bait or sit on it for a while before taking it. Keep your drag set loose, as carp can be tricky to hook due to their cautious nature and tendency to expel bait multiple times before fully inhaling it.
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Fishing tips: think like a big fish, look for food, comfort and shelter; be patient
Introduced to Australian waterways in the 1960s, carp are now considered a pest species, causing major damage to the quality of inland waterways and native fish populations. They are present in every state or territory except the Northern Territory. Despite this, carp fishing is a popular pastime in Australia, with carp being relatively easy to catch and handle.
If you're looking to catch big carp in Australia, here are some tips to keep in mind:
Think like a big fish, look for food, comfort, and shelter
Carp are nomadic foragers, so setting up in a calm section of a river, lake, or pond is a good tactic. Look for spots where big carp are likely to find food, comfort, and shelter. These spots can be near weed beds, gravel patches, or structures, and sometimes they are not close to the shore. Keep in mind that big carp will push smaller fish away to claim the best spots.
Choose the right bait
While big carp are experienced and wary, they can still be caught with the right bait. The type of bait is more important than the size—scent, colour, and movement can all play a role in attracting carp. Sweet corn kernels and bread are popular options, but be sure to keep your baits fairly small, as carp have relatively small mouths.
Be patient
Big carp are especially active at night, so camping overnight or fishing at first light or into early darkness can increase your chances of catching them. Be prepared to wait and give the carp time to find your bait. Carp will often "mouth" the bait before committing, so watch your rod tip for these telltale signs.
Choose the right gear
Using the right fishing rod and rig can improve your chances of success. A Through Action Rod is recommended for close-range carp fishing as it absorbs the energy of the fight, giving you greater control. Simple rigs such as light paternoster rigs, float rigs, or running ball sinker rigs are suitable for carp fishing.
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Frequently asked questions
Carp are everywhere in Australia. You can find them in country rivers, lakes, dams, suburban rivers, and creeks.
Big carp are especially active at night. If you don't want to camp overnight, try fishing at first light or from the afternoon until early darkness.
You will need a carp fishing rod that suits your fishing style, such as distance casting, stalking, float or margin fishing. You will also need a good shock-absorbing rod, such as a Through Action Rod, and a chemically sharpened hook made of fine gauge wire.
Big carp are wiser than younger carp, so bait presentation is important. You can use sweet corn kernels or bread, but be sure to keep your baits fairly small.
