The Handbook to Carp Fishing Extras

Fishing requires a rod, a reel and a lure. Those are the basics, but every successful fishing experience also needs a few extras. These extras, like other gear, can be purchased at retail fishing stores and from online fishing sites.

Those interested in carp fishing should add the following items to their fishing shopping list.

Some Small but Important Extras

• Knot Protector Bead: small plastic beads used to keep leads and other rigging from damaging knots.
• Fishing Rig Stops: pieces of plastic, metal and various other materials which “stop” something from coming off. Examples are back stops, stops for sliding rings and float stops.
• Swivel beads: beads with large bores that allow them to revolve. They are often used with ledger and helicopter rigs.

Tools and Utensils

• Forceps: a tool that looks like scissors, but acts more like pliers. The ends of forceps are made for gripping, which makes them great for grasping small objects and for removing hooks.
• Super Grip Bait Drill: a drill specially designed to put holes in hard bait. Be sure to choose a drill with an easy-to-grip, sturdy handle.
• Baiting spoon: a “spoon-like” utensil used to place bait at greater distances. Baiting spoons are usually around 10-12 inches long and screw onto the end of a net pole.

Ways to Handle Bait

• Air Dry Bag: bags usually made of mesh which are designed to help keep the bait fresh and moist.
• Hook Bait Bag: a waterproof and foil-lined bait bag.

Storage and Organization

• Tackle Box: to store hooks, lures, weights and etc. Tackle boxes are generally available in three sizes, are divided into compartments, and often come with removable or adjustable dividers.
• Carp Tackle Box: designed specifically for carp fishing, and contains smaller boxes to protect gear, bait and accessories.
• Flip-top Box: a must for any fisherman. It holds small items such as stops, beads and hooks, the type of gear you don’t want getting lost or lying around loose in the bottom of the tackle box.
• Rig Roll or Carp Kit: a flexible “tackle box” that can roll into a smaller version of itself. Usually made of mesh or nylon, a rig roll has pockets and compartments for everything a carp fishing session needs.”

Items to Aid the Angler

• Casting Glove: designed to protect the angler while casting, and can usually be worn on either the left or the right hand.
• Rod Tip Protector: padded cover to protect the fishing rod when folded.
• Bivvy Table: great for keeping keys, cell phones and other important items off the ground, while providing an accessible spot to place tackle items.
• Carp Care Kit: a first-aid kit for carp before returning it to the water. A must for every carp fisherman.
• Hand Towel: essential for cleaning blood and muck from hands.
• A Spare Boat Battery: a necessity if you’re going to be out fishing for long periods. Getting stranded can take the fun out of the fishing experience.