subject: Carp Rigs - Info For Novices [print this page] The way the carp rig is designed allows the hook to be positioned away from the bait, ensuring a better chance of catching a carp. The bait is placed above the hook, rather than on the hook. This allows the bait to pass through the throat of the carp before the carp knows that there is a hard hook attached. The carp rigs have been used across Europe for quite a while now; recently they have become more popular in North America.
The changes in tackle have varied immensely over the decades, and carp rigs are fairly new to fisherman who may be coming back into the sport after a few years of retirement. The idea is fairly obvious; the approximate length from the carp's teeth to its throat is about two inches, once they take the bait and move it towards the throat, the hook is then already in their mouth and it's practically a done deal. Before carp rigs, most fish would nibble the bait, becoming weary of the shiny, hard hook, and spit it all out, resulting in few catches.
The methods of carp fishing have revolutionized throughout the years, and will only continue to do so. New developments have resulted in more sophisticated gear and clever hook bait arrangements. Your catch rate will improve greatly once you realize that there are different rigs more appropriately used for different carp and water types. Basically, if the carp cannot see your rig, the greater the chance it will take the bait. Concealing your rig effectively is the objective. Fish aren't exactly brainless, they are aware of their environment and can see, hear and smell more than we think.
Just because you caught a great size carp in one place using a certain rig does not mean that the same rig will work in a different area. More often than not, it won't work. Adapt your rig to the fishing location and changes in feeding. To state the obvious, make sure that the color of your rig is the color of the lake bed so that it blends in much better.
Tricking the carp into thinking they are getting food and only food is the whole point behind the carp rig. Getting out-witted by a carp is not fun or good for the ego, but it will probably happen at least once, so prepare yourself. Whether you are a expert or beginner, trying new rigs and methods is a good idea.
