Choose a swim
Look for a margin, a weed edge, an overhanging tree or a point. Carp patrol the same lines each day, and they leave signs: bubbles, muddy patches and fish rolling.
Feed the swim
Carp learn that a spot means food. Scatter a handful of boilies, corn or pellets over the spot before you cast, and top up lightly through the session. A small, steady feed works better than a big one.
Rig and cast
Use a hair rig with a lead clip. Cast to your baited area, tighten up until the lead settles and set your reel's free-spool or bite alarm so a taking fish can run without feeling resistance.
12 ft rod, 3 to 3.5 lb test curve
5000 to 10000 free-spool reel
12 to 15 lb mono
Landing net, unhooking mat and a weigh sling
Look after the fish
Carp are long-lived and often caught many times. Keep them wet, use an unhooking mat, handle them gently and return them quickly. Check the water's rules on night fishing and on keeping fish.
General guidance only. Conditions, rules and species differ along the coast, so check with local anglers and the current regulations.