Pretentious Snobby Bastard Fly Fishing!

Fly Fishing Reports => Warm Water Species => Topic started by: Woolly Bugger on May 26, 2018, 09:29:21 AM

Title: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 26, 2018, 09:29:21 AM
I’m still struggling to catch a common carp out of the SECCA pond in WS. I’ve been by there four times this year and have only caught bass and bream. Every once in a while a carp will be mudding up close to the back, he only real opportunity to catch them as the visibility in the pond is zilch. I’ve had a few opportunities with fish 20 to 30 feet out but it was no go.

Yesterday as I walked in there was another long rod fisherman, someone about as crazy as me, fishing for the carp and damn if he didn’t hook one that was feeding along the bank.. he was using a mop fly but the small carp was too much fish for him and his 4 wt and he broke it off.

One day I will catch a common carp!




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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Dougfish on May 26, 2018, 10:33:51 AM
The mulberry hatch is about to start along the Roanoke. I'm tying some fruit flies.  V:;
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: JMiller on May 29, 2018, 12:54:32 PM
Meh.
You'll get there.
There's a pretty big learning curve with carp, but then one day, they just start eating your flies.
Took me forever to get the first one.
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Dougfish on May 30, 2018, 09:59:13 AM
If the rain stops and river goes down...

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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Phil on May 30, 2018, 10:58:29 AM
An old carp fanatic I knew told me carp flies work better if you spit tobacco juice on 'em....
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: itieuglyflies on May 30, 2018, 16:55:34 PM
Doug-
Mulberry flies look really good. As I recall there are also some white mulberries along the Roanoke  Additionally I found if the fish were not hot on the floating flies, tying some with weight making them sink was really good. With the  heavier flies they make a pronounced plop when they hit the water, this calls in ole rubber lips. You want a good plop on the water ( also with the floaters) but a slow sink rate. Creating a false "hatch" with a handful of berries really  gets them going once they have keyed in on berries. Our problem on the lower James is the large number of small blue catfish that also like the berries and they often beat the carp to the fly.

All of this is probably useless information......but take it for what it's worth.
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Dougfish on May 30, 2018, 17:43:34 PM
Good points, Fred. Tied a few weighted ones. Will whip up some white ones, too.

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Title: Re: Carp � unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 01, 2018, 09:50:45 AM
Carp are out today. Missed a couple in close then I saw this huge fish (over 3 feet) cruising in the middle of the lake... adrenaline started pumping. Blew a few shots then got my double haul working and shot out a near perfect cast fish on  strip set  felt the weight of the fish as it turned and then as I was clearing the line the hook popped out I was shaking for 10 minutes!




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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: dhjunkie on June 01, 2018, 15:43:57 PM
Congrats on getting one to eat.
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 07, 2018, 10:42:26 AM
Had another eat the other day. Went back this morning and this happened


Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: BrookieHunter on June 07, 2018, 12:02:17 PM
 Hell yea Wooly, Carp for the win!! I don't have the attention span or focus for those bastards, even have some huge ones within five minutes of the house but just can't put in the time to catch them.
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: driver on June 07, 2018, 12:10:02 PM
My contribution to this thread.

Bout timr Wooly Man.Guests are not allowed to view images in posts, please Register or Login
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: jwgnc on June 07, 2018, 15:53:37 PM
 0:0

Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Big J on June 07, 2018, 15:58:20 PM
We all suck at carp.  This thread has one blurry carp picture and two pictures that aren't showing up.   d:b
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: jtdriver on June 07, 2018, 17:09:46 PM
Still fuckered?Guests are not allowed to view images in posts, please Register or Login
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Phil on June 07, 2018, 18:08:41 PM
Carpatalk.


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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Michael Toris on June 07, 2018, 22:47:19 PM
Good shit woolly. Now for river donks!
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 08, 2018, 09:13:41 AM

Quote from: DAYUMson on June 07, 2018, 22:47:19 PMGood shit woolly. Now for river donks!


will try and give it a go soon....



Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 08, 2018, 09:21:11 AM
I went back to the pond and had several shots at some tailers... spork and I had been there at lunchtime too and he was telling me about how Greyson would snag the bastards.... well this pond is so muddy that it is almost impossible to see the eats and when I saw my fly sinking right into the carp's mouth I set the hook... There was a father and son out trying to catch some bass so I asked the dad to take a few photos especially because the shots of the mirror carp suxed


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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Big J on June 08, 2018, 09:42:09 AM
Very nice woolly  V:;
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Phil on June 08, 2018, 11:11:05 AM
That's a big 'un!  'c;
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 09, 2018, 21:42:39 PM
[attachment id=1 msg=158618]

[attachment id=0 msg=158618]

Might be getting the hang of this, this guy was taking in shallow water. I dropped the fly right onto the dinnger plate and saw thi guy Hoover the fly and I was ready to set the hook!

Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: NCsporksman on June 10, 2018, 15:30:28 PM
Always good practice to remove the hook from the tail and stick it in the fish mouth #respeck

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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Michael Toris on June 10, 2018, 21:51:13 PM
Quote from: NCsporksman on June 10, 2018, 15:30:28 PM
Always good practice to remove the hook from the tail and stick it in the fish mouth #respeck

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My tried and true method

A snag in the face counts as an eat btw
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 12, 2018, 15:06:07 PM
First thing this morning I caught another common... this one was a real fighter ran almost into the backing -- no pic went nuts when to tried to take photo-- lost my fly!


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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 12, 2018, 15:06:44 PM
PS I've been trying like hell to snag one in the tail !


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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Dee-Vo on June 12, 2018, 17:22:32 PM
I'd seriously enjoy getting into some carp. I never can find anywhere clear enough to find the bastards without a boat.

I have a super muddy pond with monster grassies in it and I have access to another pond with maybe 40" grassies in it as well.....but it's in a cemetery with active maintenance personnel on duty. [emoji57]

I want a carp. Somebody help.
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 12, 2018, 19:00:31 PM
Carp be my new addiction—I've been checking the pond two or three times a day!

[attachment id=0 msg=158641]

Some new fly ties — I think they'll hunt!
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: driver on June 12, 2018, 20:21:26 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on June 12, 2018, 19:00:31 PM
Carp be my new addiction—I've been checking the pond two or three times a day!

[attachment id=0 msg=158641]

Some new fly ties — I think they'll hunt!
Get a job!
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 13, 2018, 16:17:34 PM

These carp have forced me to up my knot game from what I've been using for trout. The Figure 8 Tarpon Loop Knot is my goto for loop to loop and to fly, replacing a perfection loop and no-slip mono knots.


its easy to tie and this video makes it simple to learn.


https://youtu.be/b7JItLoaB9c



Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Michael Toris on June 13, 2018, 18:47:27 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on June 13, 2018, 16:17:34 PM

These carp have forced me to up my knot game from what I've been using for trout. The Figure 8 Tarpon Loop Knot is my goto for loop to loop and to fly, replacing a perfection loop and no-slip mono knots.


its easy to tie and this video makes it simple to learn.


https://youtu.be/b7JItLoaB9c
I've never had a non-slip knot or perfection loop fail on any fish. Most of my fails come from bad tippet to tippet knots (blood knots are the worst for me; I like the double uni)
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 14, 2018, 09:13:37 AM
https://youtu.be/frUaO4vBiO4


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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 16, 2018, 09:19:16 AM

Spork and I have been hittin the carp hole on a number of days... but the bastards haven't been showing themselves in the shallow water.


Spork: "F*** this place"
WB: "It's the only game I've got right now."
Spork: "We should hit Oak Hollow, I was down there and carp were everywhere, a whole acre of tailing carp."
WB: "Alright then."


well we met up just after 3 and headed on down the road stopping for some rehydration fluids and got to the ramp around 4. Dude at the counter ask about our canoe, "does it have a motor?" Then he ask me if I'm over 60. $3.50 ramp fee, that's 1/2 off the regular price. And off we go down to the acre of tailing carp, only they aren't there or aren't easy to see. We jumped a few and had a couple of shots but it was pretty muddy and vis was off. Spork blamed all the kayakers for putting the fish down. I thought he remarks were more like Translywader hyperbole.
Tried another cove. Battery was spent. Paddled up into the cove, jumped a few more fish. It wasn't looking good. So across the lake we went past a sign that we later discovered said, "No Boats Beyond This Point" Spork caught a bass. On the way out of this cove, the water exploded in front of us. Spork got ready to cast, then we realized that it was a golf ball that hat skipped on the water and that we were in the line of fire ! We hightailed it out of there, and while looking back that was when we realized that we had gone past the no boating sigh.


The end.



Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Phil on June 16, 2018, 10:43:37 AM
It's always good for the soul to get out into the wilderness and commune with nature.  8)
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Fishbug on June 16, 2018, 22:33:09 PM
Theres some voodoo happening at the end of that figure 8 loop video.

What size tippet you got? And using 8wt I assume?


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Title: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 18, 2018, 12:37:48 PM
Quote from: Fishbug on June 16, 2018, 22:33:09 PM
Theres some voodoo happening at the end of that figure 8 loop video.

What size tippet you got? And using 8wt I assume?


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I was using 15 lb fluoro but after breaking off two at hand I've switched to 20lb

Landed another mirror carp today #nophoto


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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 19, 2018, 09:27:46 AM
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Number 6


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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 20, 2018, 05:22:28 AM
Carp blockers

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I've hooked some larger bass but lost them when they tailwalked and threw the hook



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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 20, 2018, 19:08:52 PM
Spent 3 one hour shifts at the pond today, had a couple of good shots, got robbed by a carpblocking bass and the other chance blew up when the carp ran into the leader... later I blew a couple of shots by landing the fly on the carps head, they do not respond well to that but it does give you an idea of the power and speed that they possess.

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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Dougfish on June 20, 2018, 19:32:47 PM
Retirement looks like.......................dis?
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 20, 2018, 19:43:49 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on June 20, 2018, 19:32:47 PM
Retirement looks like.......................dis?


Fuxk off, you know I'm taking care of the folks!


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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 20, 2018, 19:50:20 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on June 20, 2018, 19:43:49 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on June 20, 2018, 19:32:47 PM
Retirement looks like.......................dis?


Fuxk off, you know I'm taking care of the folks!


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And another thing, Willis, I had four billable hours today: mlm


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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Dougfish on June 20, 2018, 20:06:38 PM
I have 14 hrs today. And counting.
Trouting in the early am, holmes. Phone will be on. Office open.   V:;
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: itieuglyflies on June 21, 2018, 08:27:24 AM
You boys just keep on working and sending in money to the Feds each month......us retired guys appreciate it.
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 21, 2018, 22:04:36 PM
Quote from: itieuglyflies on June 21, 2018, 08:27:24 AM
You boys just keep on working and sending in money to the Feds each month......us retired guys appreciate it.


Obsession and those spooking carp got the better of me today. I had to make a quick shot at one close in before it moved out of the casting window... first cast was a tad short. Second cast was on the dinner plate. I went to set the hook but missed the fish the the fly landed up in a tree.. I put a little too much effort into retrieving they fly and snapped the rod tip, so instead of sending money to Uncle Sam I sent 55 Wonga off to Redington.




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Title: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Dee-Vo on June 22, 2018, 05:06:36 AM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on June 21, 2018, 22:04:36 PM
Quote from: itieuglyflies on June 21, 2018, 08:27:24 AM
You boys just keep on working and sending in money to the Feds each month......us retired guys appreciate it.

I sent 55 Wonga off to Redington.



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I have to do the same today. How lucky we are.

Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 23, 2018, 15:28:51 PM
Casting with the 10wt tfo with a Sage 3210 reel I hooked one in the lips and it tore across the pond.i decided that I needed a little more drag, three clicks tighter and there 13 lb tippet broke. My bad! One click at a time from now on!


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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Phil on June 23, 2018, 16:55:41 PM
13 pound tippet broke? Dayum, Woolly. You be hookin some monster carpage.  :o
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: itieuglyflies on June 23, 2018, 18:41:07 PM
Bad knots or bad line......I don't think you can't pull 13 lbs with that rod  unless it is pointed at the fish. Hook a scale to your rod and try.
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 23, 2018, 18:56:31 PM
Quote from: itieuglyflies on June 23, 2018, 18:41:07 PM
Bad knots or bad line......I don't think you can't pull 13 lbs with that rod  unless it is pointed at the fish. Hook a scale to your rod and try.

Running like a freight train. Not much of an angle on the rod because of trees and shrubs. Those three clicks on the drag really tightened it up— jis sayin


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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: streamereater_101691 on June 23, 2018, 22:24:34 PM
Check your drag for smashed washers if its a disc drag reel. I always try to loosen it after every trip so as to not put any flat spots in the disc. That can cause uneven pressure and pop the line like a twig.
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Michael Toris on June 24, 2018, 00:39:15 AM
Saw my backing today beeteedubs
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Fin on June 24, 2018, 07:04:28 AM
Quote from: DAYUMson on June 24, 2018, 00:39:15 AM
Saw my backing today beeteedubs

#metoo
Title: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 28, 2018, 13:06:51 PM
Speaking of backing, today I went to the pond for a half hour and blew a couple of shots, then just before I left I spied a fish working the bottom voraciously about 2/3 across the pond. Probably beyond my casting ability I thought but what the heck! Nice cast landed a couple of feet in front of and beyond the fish. I waited as the fly sank and then boom the fish took the fly and ran the rest of the way across the pond and down the far shore. Gained on the fish and after several more runs got it to shore where I was going to beach it for a photo, well the mirror carp went berserk as I grabbed the leader and the hook broke. (I'll admit that I had to bend the hook back into shape after freeing it from some snags) That was also my best performing fly... caught at least 3 of the 7 carp on that fly and the mirrors appeared to have liked it.

That's my story and I'm sticking to it!


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Title: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 01, 2018, 10:11:28 AM
So damn hot down here in the flatlands. Yesterday I washed three fly lines and ordered a stripping basket as this carp fishing from the bank is taking a tole on the lines.

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Linekurve with elastic belt... 65 wonga

https://www.themightyfish.com/collections/fly-fishing-accessories/products/linekurv-stripping-basket-with-wading-belt


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Title: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 05, 2018, 19:14:17 PM
I want carp fishing to be like this

https://youtu.be/2ovxc6o5kAc


Carp 243 — WB 7


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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Fin on July 06, 2018, 09:25:15 AM
I came across some "cloppers" late last summer on a small river that were rising to suck on blobs of algae floating by.  I did a quick inspection of the green snooty globs looking for midges or some other insect.  I found nothing.  I tried several beetles, hoppers, etc.  nothing.  Drove me mad...
Title: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 13, 2018, 08:12:14 AM
Notes from the pond.
It's been a while since I've hooked one of these bastard carp, bot that I haven't been stalking them almost every morning. I've had many decent shots and flubbed many more. Right now there is one working under a tree where I can't cast. I've chased after mud and shadows and learned that a snapping turtle will hit a fly.

Redington returned my rod, about three weeks time — only broke the tip but they sent a whole new rod including the tube!

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Title: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 15, 2018, 09:41:14 AM
Spork said there were carp, we caught none

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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Onslow on July 15, 2018, 11:26:02 AM
Can't speak about the New, but dam stacking in rivers I know is a seasonal thing.
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Fin on July 16, 2018, 05:48:20 AM
QuoteSpork said there were carp, we caught none

What's really important is did you have opportunity?  Catching is a whole other thing.  I checked out what I thought would be some promising water Saturday morning as well.  Zero shots at feeding fish.  Only a couple of fleeing fish spotted in about six hours of water time.  Oh well, you don't know if you don't check it out.
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: NCsporksman on July 16, 2018, 08:04:56 AM
Quote from: Fin on July 16, 2018, 05:48:20 AM
QuoteSpork said there were carp, we caught none

What's really important is did you have opportunity?  Catching is a whole other thing.  I checked out what I thought would be some promising water Saturday morning as well.  Zero shots at feeding fish.  Only a couple of fleeing fish spotted in about six hours of water time.  Oh well, you don't know if you don't check it out.
Lol Woolly quit fishing carp and started throwing at smallies within 8 minutes of arriving....fact...I got the finger from multiple carps, after 4 trips of this I'm a little suspect..time to switch to trebles or have finn bless my flies beforehand

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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Phil on July 16, 2018, 10:27:50 AM
Spit tobacco juice on them flies.
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 19, 2018, 15:56:30 PM
Quote from: Phil on July 16, 2018, 10:27:50 AM
Spit tobacco juice on them flies.


If I chewed tobacco I would try this...

Wasted another couple of hours at the muddy pond today. Many shots... zero hook-ups

Read this article but it hasn't helped... I feel like I'm due some good luck soon.

http://www.flycarpin.com/2015/03/ten-tips-for-catching-carp-in-muddy.html?m=1


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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 20, 2018, 09:33:17 AM
Low light this morning— 5 good shots at carp feeding in close to the bank in shallow water... still can't see the fly or the carp's mouth— 1st one turned to the fly, I set the hook... too early or too late—- had another eat but no love

Carp 305, wb - 7


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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Fin on July 20, 2018, 09:47:54 AM
QuoteCarp 305, wb - 7

Fun isn't it?   V:;
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 21, 2018, 13:18:06 PM
Last night I finally got a hookup on a large carp... I flubbed he hookset and dropped the line so the fish ran 30 feet before becoming tight — I set again and thought I was good as the fish ran me close to the backing. Put some pressure on the fish and the hook popped out.

Later I saw Najinski cruising around on the surface in the middle of the pond, I had to good shots and saw the fish turn to the fly. Solid strip set to no avail!

The hunt continues !


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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Phil on July 21, 2018, 16:07:43 PM
When you say "large" what carpage are we talking here, Woolly? Can you give me an estimate?
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 22, 2018, 00:07:18 AM
Quote from: Phil on July 21, 2018, 16:07:43 PM
When you say "large" what carpage are we talking here, Woolly? Can you give me an estimate?

I believe the one I hooked was probably 26 - 28 inches and Nijinsky is over 36"


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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 23, 2018, 10:39:35 AM
Notes from the pond: Today I saw three or four pairs of large carp swimming in circles around each other on this cloudy day. I had to cast most of the fly line to reach them and they weren't frightened by the line shooting over their heads. They also weren't interested in eating. I would work each pair as the moved in and out of range. I probably made 30 cast that should have connected with one of the bastards.

Is this spawning activity?




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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Stone-Man on July 23, 2018, 12:47:24 PM
Keith,
They usually spawn earlier than this ,but this unusually cool weather might have triggered some different activity.It is going to be in the low 60's at night here for the next 8 days

  JT
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 23, 2018, 17:56:43 PM
Sort of looks like this but out in the middle of the pond and with 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 in the pod

https://youtu.be/mfVx8MO5lXU

I think that they spawned in early June also...



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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Dougfish on July 23, 2018, 19:24:47 PM
https://youtu.be/8hhu-OyHqZM

Seen that group sex in the duckponds at VT. I might or might not have participated.

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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 23, 2018, 21:50:34 PM
On the bright side I can now cast almost the entire fly line (all be about 8 ft) and am working on getting it all out there


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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 25, 2018, 14:19:53 PM
"I'll try and stay away from you"

https://vimeo.com/281681199


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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: NCsporksman on July 25, 2018, 16:46:03 PM
You live by the pond you die by the pond...leave dem goldfish alone

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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 26, 2018, 12:50:36 PM
Carp Sex

https://vimeo.com/281847624


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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: itieuglyflies on July 26, 2018, 13:39:59 PM
Carp spawning is usually an active affair as often several males chase a female into shallow water bumping her sides and fertilizing eggs as they go. From many years of bow fishing this usually occurred when spring water temps hit 66-68 degrees. Perhaps the fish in your NC pond are old like me and a bit subdued!

BTW- now at you are a carp man are you getting rid of your trout gear?
Title: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 27, 2018, 13:58:51 PM
One would think that casting into a pod of spawning carp that you would at least be able to snag one once in a while. Today there were five to eight pods with as many as eight carp in each. Also many cruising fish that were occasionally gulping on the surface  and a few that were actually feeding on the bottom. My best shot came first thing with a carp with its tail on the bank and its head in about a foot and a half of water, but my first cast got hung on an overhead branch and the carp skedaddled away. After that I figured that just about every carp in the pond was too busy getting it on to bother feeding. It's my understanding that the will be ravenous after the spawn is finished. Also read that they can spawn multiple times from June through August.

Needed the 10 wt to land this monster!
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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: itieuglyflies on July 27, 2018, 19:23:29 PM
You may want to try a cigarette butt fly.......I hear they like a smoke after they spawn
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: NCsporksman on July 28, 2018, 21:50:12 PM
#mystrangeaddiction

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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 28, 2018, 23:06:13 PM
Since I can't catch them I switched to wildlife photography

Green Heron
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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 29, 2018, 08:30:21 AM
https://vimeo.com/282185758
Title: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 29, 2018, 12:58:00 PM
I call this one #8

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I had one good up close shot at a feeding fish with its mouth fading the bank .. perfect cast but he fish must have hit the leader leader and shot off into the deeper water.

There was a large pod of carp conjugating on the far side of the pond maybe 160 feet across from where I was standing. I walked the bank and finally reeled in and was ready to go but decided to take one last look at the other end of the pond. The spawn pod was now 50 feet away and I got off three cast to it but nobody was interested. Two fish left and were cruising along at a good pace. I fired off a cast and was dragging the fly into their path when one of the fish took the fly. I had most of the fly line in the stripping basket and the fish's first run took all of it and 4 or five yards of backing. As I played to fish back in it ran for the only cover in he middle of the pond and tried to wrap up around it. Fortunately the leader and knots held and it was able to clear the fish and bring it to shore. I was a bit surprised at the small size of the fish but still admired its strength. 

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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 30, 2018, 19:26:08 PM
The rains overnight and this morning appear to have put the kabash on the spawning activity, but only a few carp showed themselves this afternoon and only two of those were in acceptable casting positions. No carp were harmed today. 


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Title: Carp — unlimited
Post by: BRFFF on August 05, 2018, 11:49:50 AM
All I can say is you won't ever catch a carp if you don't go hunting them. I check the pond just about everyday, usually in the morning for about an hour.  The other day after the rain I saw several of the largest ones feeding up against the bank. But it was difficult to see exactly where their head was. I hd a bunch of really good shots but no hookups.

They are still spawning and don't have much interest in eating a fly. The pond is up about 6" and visibility is poor. On the bright side I've cast a 10 wt just about every day.


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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: BRFFF on August 10, 2018, 15:07:24 PM
Looks like the spawning is coming to an end and I am seeing more tailing carp. Visibility is still pathetic at about 6 inches. Had halfway decent shots at five or six of the bastards today.. sooner or later I will catch another one of them 

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Find of the day a deceased Dobsonfly
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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 12, 2018, 08:50:13 AM

so the other day I go to visit my pond for an hour and as I'm walking down the bank I see some ripples in the water. I approach slowly and see one of the bigger gals feeding on the bank, I unhood the fly from a guide and pull some line off the reel. I look for the fish and it has turned 90 degrees and moved three feet down. I cast as draw the fly in and watch it slowly sink to intercept the feeding fish somewhere in the opaque depth of the muddy water. No dice, fish turns 180 and slowly swims away. I cast again, the shadow of the line spooks the carp and off she goes...


one of these days I'll hook another one... no daisy chain spawners sighted -- maybe there all off smoking cigs now....
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: BRFFF on August 16, 2018, 20:10:54 PM
The spawn is winding down and there are plenty of carp feeding on the bank.. I hd a dozen good opportunities today but alas I came up with naught.


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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Fin on August 16, 2018, 21:57:36 PM
Failure + Frustration + Fun = Carp Fishing
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: BRFFF on August 17, 2018, 18:49:35 PM
I had a shot at at least a dozen of those mfing carp today, most were small but several were huge — they are back feeding on the bank — just vary wary and they had zero interest in my fly. I had a couple of heart pounding moment where I thought a fish was on the fly — so damn close — I should find a new hobby!




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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 20, 2018, 14:20:06 PM
Actually got one of those sucker to hit a cicada pattern. got a chubby and trout set....  n!n

they were out an about clooping around mostly at 80 - 120 feet... few came in to 40 - 60 ... only had 45 minutes....

<-;:
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: itieuglyflies on August 20, 2018, 20:01:52 PM
Since you visit and harass these poor carps what seems like daily, you may want to change your approach. Don't be their enemy, be their friend.( let's face, you have moved to the dark side already). Each day as you are ready to leave, you need to let these carps know that you want to be their friend. Just leave them a nice treat of nice yellow kernels, perhaps some breakfast cereal. If you do this on a regular basis, pretty soon those elusive bugle mouths will greet you and happily take your best imitation.......may I suggest a #10 Green Giant.
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: BRFFF on August 20, 2018, 20:55:42 PM
Quote from: itieuglyflies on August 20, 2018, 20:01:52 PM
Since you visit and harass these poor carps what seems like daily, you may want to change your approach. Don't be their enemy, be their friend.( let's face, you have moved to the dark side already). Each day as you are ready to leave, you need to let these carps know that you want to be their friend. Just leave them a nice treat of nice yellow kernels, perhaps some breakfast cereal. If you do this on a regular basis, pretty soon those elusive bugle mouths will greet you and happily take your best imitation.......may I suggest a #10 Green Giant.


Don't think I haven't though about it!


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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: BRFFF on August 24, 2018, 13:23:55 PM
Got one to eat on the surface this morning on a cicada. But as he turned and ran the hook popped out — almost more frustrating than not hooking em! The rest of the cruisers were 80 - 120 feet out and I didn't have any luck with them

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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 31, 2018, 14:57:02 PM

I've had another eat on the cicada pattern. but that is a rare thing these days and hardly any of them are feeding on the surface. The bottom feeders haven't been too cooperative either. The other day I had my coffee (free Senior Coffee from Chic-fil-a) while listening to a pair of hawks calling ...


https://vimeo.com/287720682
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: BRFFF on September 01, 2018, 09:34:57 AM
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Number 9 (3rd mirror) was a fast cruiser at about 60 feet... ignored the first cast, swam right under the fly (cicada), second cast 8 feet out in front, it swam by a little on the outside then turned around and came back to eat the fly!




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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Phil on September 01, 2018, 10:33:31 AM
Snarfin' the carps! WTG, Woolly.  'c;
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: itieuglyflies on September 01, 2018, 11:42:28 AM
I remember a time when Woolly fished for trout......perhaps it's time for a new name? Doughball,Carpfish,Fuktrout?
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: BRFFF on September 01, 2018, 11:58:31 AM
Quote from: itieuglyflies on September 01, 2018, 11:42:28 AM
I remember a time when Woolly fished for trout......perhaps it's time for a new name? Doughball,Carpfish,Fuktrout?

#anybodycancatchtrout


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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Al on September 01, 2018, 19:56:01 PM
For all you folks who are trying to figure out this carp fishing we might be able to shorten your learning curve ...................

Smith River Trout Unlimited (SRTU) will host a meeting Thursday, September 6, 2018,  6:30 p.m., at Rania's Restaurant, 147 Main St, Martinsville VA . Local carp fishing "legend" Neil Tatum will give a presentation on how to entice and catch these huge but very spooky fish with a fly rod.

You do not have to be a member of TU to attend our meetings.   Anyone who has an interest in the Smith River Fishery or surrounding waters is encouraged to attend. Chapter leaders will also discuss recent events relevant to local waters and upcoming events for the remainder of the year.

Meetings also feature a "swap shop"  set up in the back of the room. Bring what you want to sell or trade. Slap your name and a price on it and recycle the stuff you don't use or need. Look around for those "it was a good idea at the time" purchases you made but now reside in the back of your closet or garage. We always have several  items ready for new owners.  Be ready to haggle. Bring some extra cash and walk away with some neat "I need one of those" items!

While we have your attention – please save Saturday, Sept 15th for our fall SRTU clean up.  We'll meet at the Trent Hill Canoe Ramp (behind old chair factory) @ 8:30am and fan out from there. Details will be sent out in separate email.
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: BRFFF on September 03, 2018, 21:54:08 PM
I'll be there — these bastard carp are driving me mad.

So far I've spent:

$69 new stripping basket
$39 new fly line (Sierra Trading Post)
$29 new boat net

Not to mention fly tying stuff




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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: NCsporksman on September 04, 2018, 12:22:25 PM
Fin is the carp goat... I got to do Scout stuff with the kid Thursday. Thanks for making me regret becoming a father Neil

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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: itieuglyflies on September 04, 2018, 13:47:07 PM
Woolly- like I said before, had you spent only $10 or so on a few cans of Green Giant you would not be moaning and groaning about how difficult these
big minnows are to catch. One small card of yellow chenille and you could even match the hatch! Cast on my friend.
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Fin on September 06, 2018, 13:39:23 PM
QuoteSmith River Trout Unlimited (SRTU) will host a meeting Thursday, September 6, 2018,  6:30 p.m., at Rania's Restaurant, 147 Main St, Martinsville VA . Local carp fishing "legend" Neil Tatum will give a presentation on how to entice and catch these huge but very spooky fish with a fly rod.

This sounds interesting.  Wished I could make it.   /'/
Title: Carp — unlimited
Post by: BRFFF on September 07, 2018, 17:17:46 PM
Armed with some new flies from the legend himself, I set forth with renewed vigor and hit the pond early for a couple of hours in hopes that tactics confirmed by he legend would result in at least one hookup. There were a number of opportunities as the carp were feeding along the bank. However, despite my determination and new flies, I only succeeded in molesting the fish.

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Coffee hot, fishing not so much.



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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Dougfish on September 07, 2018, 20:28:39 PM
Old man free righteous coffee. No hook ups. Bathroom close by. Happiness.  -+;
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Al on September 08, 2018, 14:14:42 PM
Credit where credit is due. "The Legend" did a great job at the SRTU meeting.   Here are a couple photos..............

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Notice that he even came dressed for the occasion
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I fully expected Woolly to go right out and slay them the next day - maybe he was sleeping when the secrets were revealed.

Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Dougfish on September 08, 2018, 14:19:13 PM
I tried. Got an F from the carp.Guests are not allowed to view images in posts, please Register or Login


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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Big J on September 08, 2018, 16:22:06 PM
The legend did good on a river I suck at  b';
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Fin on September 08, 2018, 21:44:19 PM
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New spot. Found a few. Crawfish munchers.
Title: Carp — unlimited
Post by: BRFFF on September 09, 2018, 09:56:09 AM
I may have to venture beyond my pond if I expect to catch another one.. locally they all have my number


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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: itieuglyflies on September 09, 2018, 16:20:55 PM
Woolly- I think your pond friends  have had your number for quite some time now!
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: BRFFF on September 10, 2018, 10:46:05 AM
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Number 10!

Two hours at the pond today did the trick. There were a few other good opportunities and I got robbed once by a bluegill that swooped in and took the fly almost out of the carps mouth! I had one eat but upon hookset it was gone. There were also herds slurping on the surface but they had very little interest in the cicada that had been effective before. They mealy swam under it or around it or just came over for a look, but none took a bite. Mostly they were 80 to 90 feet off the bank, but occasionally the came in closer at 40 - 60 feet.

There are a few other fishermen that come to the pond on a semi regular basis, one is a young guy who spin fishes for bass. He was there the other day and when I came down he told me that he had been fishing with corn and had hooked a carp but it broke off shortly afterwards. I told him that he might have a hard time landing one on his ultra light spinning rod. But he was stoked at the prospect.

Today I got to use my new net for the first time, for a while I wondered if I was crazy for 1) buying it and 2) hauling it down to the pond.




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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Phil on September 10, 2018, 11:47:18 AM
Alright, Woolly! Persistence!  'c;
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 10, 2018, 13:48:51 PM

ps number ten was caught on a legendary fly... jis say'in

Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Dougfish on September 10, 2018, 17:44:11 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on September 10, 2018, 13:48:51 PM

ps number ten was caught on a legendary fly... jis say'in

Alieworm?
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: BRFFF on September 10, 2018, 17:52:30 PM
Quote from: Dougfish on September 10, 2018, 17:44:11 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on September 10, 2018, 13:48:51 PM

ps number ten was caught on a legendary fly... jis say'in

Alieworm?


Neil's fly — a version of bacon and eggs


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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: itieuglyflies on September 10, 2018, 19:34:38 PM
Go Woolly, now on to number 11......and 12 before Christmas!
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: BRFFF on September 11, 2018, 09:23:02 AM
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Approaching the pond through the parterre, but it doesn't look like anybody wants to play today!


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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: NCsporksman on September 11, 2018, 20:19:21 PM
Quote from: BRFFF on September 11, 2018, 09:23:02 AM
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Approaching the pond through the parterre, but it doesn't look like anybody wants to play today!


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Quite possibly the gayest shit ever posted on here

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Title: Carp — unlimited
Post by: BRFFF on September 12, 2018, 12:05:27 PM
Quote from: NCsporksman on September 11, 2018, 20:19:21 PM
Quote from: BRFFF on September 11, 2018, 09:23:02 AM
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Approaching the pond through the parterre, but it doesn't look like anybody wants to play today!


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Quite possibly the gayest shit ever posted on here

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I can not lie, I took that photo just so I could use the word parterre!


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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Dougfish on September 12, 2018, 12:19:09 PM
There's nothing French or snooty about those shitty crimes against horticulture.
Emission de merde!

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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: BRFFF on September 28, 2018, 10:45:21 AM
Number 11 broke me off. Earlier I had cast to a carp which was working the flats and on the first cast wrapped the fly around a tree branch. Then I yanked it out and got my cast off to the fish.. I stripped the fly right in front of its face but it took off. Further on down the bank I found another one feeding up tight against the bank. I cast and as the fly dropped down the fish rose and slurped it down — strip set and then it ran. I was letting line out and beginning to apply some pressure when the line went slack — the stressed knot failed damn it!


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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: BRFFF on October 01, 2018, 16:21:54 PM
So there was a 8' x 8' float at the pond, it was well built and not too old, but the barrels used for flotation had failed at the end furthest out in the water. It was free floating but grounded in the shallow inflow end and also loosely tied to a tree. It went missing last week and I assumed that it was just removed as it no longer served a purpose.

I found out he other day that some of the local youth had taken it out for a paddle and the security detail at the museum ran out and down to the pond to hail then ashore. Now the float is tied up to the dam and new no trespassing signs are affixed to the deck.

It must have been fun while it lasted!


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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: itieuglyflies on October 01, 2018, 17:59:52 PM
I wasn't sure where you were going with this report......thought you finally had yourself a boat!
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Dougfish on October 01, 2018, 18:09:31 PM
Quote from: itieuglyflies on October 01, 2018, 17:59:52 PM
I wasn't sure where you were going with this report......thought you finally had yourself a boat!
The same.
Cheap bastard that he is.

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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: BRFFF on October 03, 2018, 10:00:11 AM
Number 11 came to the net today! It was classic! The fish was moving across the flat at about 40 feet out. I cast out and in front of the fish and I first I though it might have landed too far out in front. Stripped of in slowly and then let it drop and I waited. Then the fish moved to the fly and I set the hook and the game was on! It made a great initial run and then headed for the snags on the near bank. Fortunately he stayed free of the submerged limbs.

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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: itieuglyflies on October 03, 2018, 10:10:14 AM
Go Woolly! Which one was that? I am sure you must be on a first name basis with with all them carps in that pond by now.
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: BRFFF on October 03, 2018, 16:02:37 PM
Downside of today's catch is that the lawn service amigo witnessed the catch and took photos, " mang, I've never seen fish like that, so big!"


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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Phil on October 03, 2018, 18:30:29 PM
Quote from: BRFFF on October 03, 2018, 16:02:37 PM
Downside of today's catch is that the lawn service amigo witnessed the catch and took photos, " mang, I've never seen fish like that, so big!"


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Uh-Oh!! Very nice carp, btw. Way to go, Woolly!  bd;0
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: dhjunkie on October 03, 2018, 19:58:48 PM
Pretty work Woolly, go getcha another one.
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: NCsporksman on October 04, 2018, 08:44:51 AM
Stocker

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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Al on October 04, 2018, 11:25:59 AM
Quote from: BRFFF on October 03, 2018, 16:02:37 PM
Downside of today's catch is that the lawn service amigo witnessed the catch and took photos, " mang, I've never seen fish like that, so big!"


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All the "amigo's" buddies are going to arrive one dark night with a seine net and there goes your secret carp fishery  :o ;D
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Dougfish on October 04, 2018, 13:37:23 PM
Quote from: Al on October 04, 2018, 11:25:59 AM
Quote from: BRFFF on October 03, 2018, 16:02:37 PM
Downside of today's catch is that the lawn service amigo witnessed the catch and took photos, " mang, I've never seen fish like that, so big!"


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All the "amigo's" buddies are going to arrive one dark night with a seine net and there goes your secret carp fishery  :o ;D
That's amigo's amigos.

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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: BRFFF on October 06, 2018, 09:05:14 AM
#12 was sitting right on the bank. Drag and drop the fly and he took it! Ran 15 yards and I put some pressure on him and the knot gave way! Crap! I just tied that fly on, I guess I didn't seat the knot properly or missed a turn! That was likely my one shot of the day!


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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: BRFFF on October 07, 2018, 14:05:59 PM
Well I went back down to the pond in the afternoon only to find The Legend out stalking my carp. He even managed to find one on the bank and was able to dap him into submission, how he managed to land that fish is beyond me as he was in the thick wooded section at the deep end!

Maybe he'll post up a pic or two


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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Fin on October 07, 2018, 20:05:49 PM
Quote from: BRFFF on October 07, 2018, 14:05:59 PM
Well I went back down to the pond in the afternoon only to find The Legend out stalking my carp. He even managed to find one on the bank and was able to dap him into submission, how he managed to land that fish is beyond me as he was in the thick wooded section at the deep end!

Maybe he'll post up a pic or two


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Spent the morning in Kernersville at the Paul J Ciener arboretum annual plant sale. After picking up a few specimens for the home garden I found myself with a few hours kill before needing to be back in Kvegas for a bornday party. What to do, what to do. I know, I'll check out the bossman's carpin hotspot. I had seen his post from the coast the day before so I figured I could sneak in and out undetected. Saw fish right away but they did not want to play. Worked my way down overgrown, wooded bank. Briars, kudzu, wisteria. Damn, Woolly can have this place! Look over the bank and right in front of me, a hungry bank sucker. Dap, eat, it's on!  Now, what. More bushwhacking I finally end up in a spot where I'm able to ease into the pond and land this big lipped beauty.

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Shortly there after I'm busted by the bossman himself. Dang, this guy fishes everyday! We chatted a while before both loading up and I split for Kernersville. Thanks for sharing Keith!

Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: dhjunkie on October 08, 2018, 11:11:15 AM
Pretty work Fin
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 10, 2018, 14:34:00 PM

note from the pond.


So I was over there the other morning and a whole crew was working on replacing an AC coil in the basement of the museum, probable 8 or 9 guys total, when they saw me they asked if there were fish in the pond. They got to work and I went looking for fish. I had a few chances but they ignored my offerings. I left after about an hour but came back for my afternoon ritual. The AC crew was finishing up and there was a local rigging up his bait and bobber at one end while I chased after a few deep tailers. Then the mom and her son showed up, this kid looks to be 5 years old, and they have recently switched to using corn for bait. I look over to the far end of the pond and I see that the work crew is gathered at the edge of the water and one of the guys has attached a line to a long tree branch while another is turning over rocks looking for worms. My time is up and I have to leave so as I'm walking by I stop and talk to everybody. The mom says her son loves fishing and catching and the little boy has to tell me all about the little bluegill he has caught. I ask if he is unhooking them, and mom pipes up that she's trying to teach him but right now they are grabbing the fish with an old t-shirt. I explain to her how to grab and hold them without getting stuck by the anal and dorsal fin spines. Then I talk to the crew and they said they were waiting of the bossman to sign off on there work and if they had known there were fish in the pond they would have brought their rods....


till next time....



Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: BRFFF on October 15, 2018, 09:24:49 AM
Pond is up almost a foot and the water is still quite muddy. Almost impossible to see fish. There was one with its nose to the bank but it didn't like the fly and took off. I spied another in between  the trees at the shallow end, tried it dap the fly but it moved out of range. A bow and arrow cast put the fly about 18 inches in front of its face. I watched as the green mop fly sank losing sight of is as the turbine water obscured it. I saw the fish move towards it and then felt the take as it raced 40 feet across the pond. The trees were blocking me from putting the rod to the fish and it circled back to the overhanging scrubs at the head of the pond there was little I could do to keep it out of the snags. It didn't end well. So it goes.


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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: BRFFF on October 22, 2018, 16:55:57 PM
The cold snap has chilled and cleared the pond waters, visibility is at a peak but unfortunately only one inaccessible fish was spotted during today's visit.


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Title: Carp — unlimited
Post by: BRFFF on October 24, 2018, 12:37:15 PM
At first I didn't think I was going to have a shot at a carp. They just weren't showing themselves. I had walked the bank for about an hour and was getting ready to leave when I saw two tailing out about 20 feet. The one on the left was moving out of range and I cast to it with a sidearm cast that pit the fly about four feet out in front and a bit to the left. I was getting ready to cast again but the fish noticed the fly and turned towards it as it sank to the bottom. It approached painfully slow and then just as I was getting ready to set the hook it twitched and turned away.

The other tailer spooked and swam to deeper water. A bit later I had a couple of other shots that involved awakened cast and eventually spooked fish.

I cruiser out about forty feet was doing crazy Ivan's and ignored the fly despite it being inches from its face.

Next I saw a pod cavorting on the far side. I tried to pick off the ones in the outside but they spooked on the line flying overhead.

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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: itieuglyflies on October 24, 2018, 19:40:24 PM
" a pod of cavorting carps" ......sounds like Woolly is spending way too much time at the ole pond.

Like the photo.
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Phil on October 25, 2018, 08:14:15 AM
^^^^  This.  :D :D
Title: Carp — unlimited
Post by: BRFFF on November 08, 2018, 15:01:44 PM
Kissing carp? Today I made two circles around the pond, on the far side I saw a group of 6 to 8 in a circle with their mouths almost touching as the glooped on the surface. I cast hoping to drop the fly into one of the open mouths. But as soon as the fly hit the water they exploded off in every direction. Later one jumped and I saw it cruising away and made a cast but it was ignored.
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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Dougfish on November 08, 2018, 19:23:14 PM
Purdy ...
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: BRFFF on November 11, 2018, 16:36:40 PM
Well carp season on he pond might be officially over. The long shadows and low sun make it very difficult to see the fish and today by the time I spied a cruiser and got ready to cast the fish had moved into the darkness of the shadows a desperate cast was fired off but was intercepted by a carp blockerGuests are not allowed to view images in posts, please Register or Login


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Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: jwgnc on November 11, 2018, 17:39:28 PM
Carp in a pin-striped suit
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: streamereater_101691 on November 11, 2018, 18:03:41 PM
dang boss, personal vendetta to catch every carp in that pond?  a trout rod is going to be quite a change based on your latest adventures
Title: Re: Carp — unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 14, 2018, 15:50:40 PM
holy crap, I mean carp....

https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/more-sports/catch-of-massive-carp-places-british-angler-in-rare-company/ar-BBPFTAg?ocid=spartandhp
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 10, 2019, 17:49:39 PM
87247E0B-5026-41B1-ACF8-8C302EF24846.png

WTF?
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 07, 2019, 15:46:11 PM
I’ve been checking out the pond from time to time and finally saw some carp activity the other day.

This morning I took a look and sAw a few groups clooping on the surface. Had to take care of biz and pick up a rod before I could chase after them.

Had a bit of free time this afternoon and strung up the rod and had a look see. Not too much to be seen?

I’ll be back soon.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Fin on March 08, 2019, 08:53:08 AM
Sunday looks promising for some shallow water carpin'.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 23, 2019, 10:31:28 AM

Many carps cruising around, 30 - 80 feet off the bank!

One was interested!

7A8A8ECF-206E-4DEA-97B1-7F450AD74CDA.jpeg

7F5E63F7-1E80-4F01-A45B-C8A4EBA0F333.jpeg

Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: ARontheFly on March 23, 2019, 14:51:21 PM
 'c;  'c;  'c;  After many years of not pursuing carp, I am fired up for poling my boat around after some carps this year!!
Awesome!
Do you get heavy runs on nearly every fish? Or like many species does it just depend on the individual you hook into?
Tippet sizing?
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 23, 2019, 20:39:29 PM
these guys are fighters... if you hook one in the shallow end watch out they run like crazy... in the deeper end they dive and fight but the run isn't as long...
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 24, 2019, 12:47:20 PM
Went out this morning for a bit, the carp were doing the cruise by thing and I had a number of shots. When I arrived there were three guys with about nine rods rigging up, I said good morning and walked on down a ways, as I was stripping off line for my first cast I turned to see the commotion on the bank ad a tight line in the water, I grabbed my net and double timed it back to fisherman who had hooked a carp. I was about to shout out, as they were trying to drag the fish up the bank, but before I could get a sound out I heard the snap of the mono....

 <-;:

I'll go back another day when it's less crowded.... d:b
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 28, 2019, 12:13:55 PM
Got lucky today, this guy picked the fly up off the bottom 40 feet out and ran with it!

 657C1A49-171A-4497-B411-80E1B5FD4F47.jpeg
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Big J on March 28, 2019, 12:26:07 PM
Woolly on a roll!
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 11, 2019, 12:45:17 PM

Yesterday I was casting to a mud plume of what I thought was a tailing carp! A damn snapper took the fly, I broke him off, sorry spork!

Today I cast to a few cruisers without any luck but found a pair feeding on the bank but under a branch. Hooking it was easy, finally got it under and on the right side of the branch and into the net. It was a flopper!

3AF655C1-B3F5-4CED-BD6B-14D1D62084D9.jpeg

Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: itieuglyflies on April 11, 2019, 17:57:27 PM
Looks like Mr. Buglemouth was wearing a gillie suit. Good going Woolly.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Dougfish on April 12, 2019, 07:00:02 AM
Why you treating those carps so poorly?  :laugh:
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 12, 2019, 08:35:53 AM
Quote from: Dougfish on April 12, 2019, 07:00:02 AMWhy you treating those carps so poorly?  :laugh:

It did it all to itself! As I put the net down for the photo that fucker flipped out and over and over and wrapped up in there leader as I scrambled after it. I almost put it back without taking a photo! I need a ghillie! Volunteers?
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 28, 2019, 12:55:05 PM
effin carps are spawing on the bank. making a racket and mudding around like crazy. can't see two inches and their noses are up under the bushes and banks. argggggg. had a couple of shots but there were ignored. cast to a couple of cruisers, one turned to the fly but swam on by.

Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 10, 2019, 10:43:24 AM

I've been checking the pond from time to time, an hour here, an hour there! Lately I've been seeing a few of them feeding on the bank in the muddy turbulent water, it's hard to see them and impossible to see the eat. I've been carp blocked by bream and bass, and my own bad cast! But today, an overcast sunless day I managed to hook up with a mirror that was just off of the bank. I could see the mud and the swirls of disturbed detritus but it took me a few minutes to see the tail and on my second cast the carp took the fly and ran in a short hard burst of energy. I fought the fish for several minutes and then got the net ready, but the fish hand other ideas and swam back up along the bank and under cover and into treacherous waters with many submerged obstacles. I was worried as the 12lb tipping rubbed across and around limbs and branches. Fortunately it came back out of the trouble after many valiant attempts to break me off!

17468F24-B52B-47DE-AAD4-C4A46865BEC2.jpeg

FYI net is 20 x 24

Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 21, 2019, 16:34:05 PM
Well the carp are spawning. They are banging up against the bank under bushes and mudding up the pond. It's impossible to see them most of the time. I dapped at a few of them but there was no interest at all. I did see a couple feeding and fired off a shot at them again to be ignored. I spent two hours in the morning and then another two in the afternoon. The biggest carp in the pond, pushing 3 feet, and I'm guessing 30 pounds, was cruising out and about. I got a good shot at it at about 50 feet, drew the fly into its face. Boom, the fish hit the fly or leader and exploded off in the opposite direction. It reappeared and I had several more shots at this beast of a fish, but alas it swam off into the depths. Maybe tomorrow.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 11, 2019, 12:35:50 PM
Went to take a look at my carp pond to see what it looked like after all of this weather!

2019-06-11.jpg



This large oak got blown over and I wonder how long if ever it will take the state to remove it, the roots are on a trail.

On other parts, I guess to compensate  Someone trimmed the shrubbery from under the cedar trees opening up more room to cast.

https://vimeo.com/341617818

Look closely and you'll see a tailing carp

https://vimeo.com/341617899
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 23, 2019, 14:50:35 PM
The other morning I was at the carp pond and there were thick in the shallow end among the downed branches that litter the bottom. Silly carp ignored my fly several times before one took it and took off across the pond. The Ross reel on the six weight doesn't have as much drag stopping power power as my other reels and I ratcheted it down to help wear the fish down. I wasn't making too much progress and then it reversed course in a long arc until it got under the overhanging brush. I was sure it would break off there, but I kept the pressure on and finally got the fish in close enough to net!

Here's a pic of number five of the year!

D5940D3B-65E4-41CC-A44A-4EFE0A9E5DCC.jpeg
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 23, 2019, 14:52:09 PM
Spork and I went looking for carp up on the new, it was high and muddy and we saw no carp

35D2BC3D-9D1C-4187-BEB7-A9D035404735.jpeg
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 29, 2019, 12:33:01 PM

I was just about to call it quits. I had been walking the bank and watching the water for an hour without seeing any activity. I was sitting on the bench sipping on the last of my now lukewarm coffee when I saw some feeding activity 50 - 60 feet out. I made my case and was denied. I sat back down for a while and then spied one in closer. It was turning this way and that and I made a good cast but by the time the fly sank the fish had turned 180 and moved off. I sat back down and watched some more. Another mud plume developed out in the middle of the pond and I cast out that way. Le the fly sink and then strip... strip... strip... Whoa! Like a shark out of the depths came a carp chasing after the fly. Don't stop stripping I thought as the fish continued to close the gap and suck in the fly. OMG! Strip set and game on. The tiny trout Ross Evolution Reel with its puny drag somehow managed to slow the fish's run out and down into the deeper part of the pond. The Sage One 6 weight was putting a lot of pressure on the fish and we got it stopped and then it arched towards the bank where I was sure it would wrap the leader around a snag and break off. The Sage enabled me to keep it out and turn it back into the open where the fight was in the last rounds and the fish was netted!


But before all of that, I went to a vinyl night at the local audiophile shop. With a top notch system that cost more than a lot of homes! Sounded fantastic...

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Dead shit.

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Indian Pipe

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covfefe

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The goods...

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Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: dhjunkie on June 29, 2019, 20:21:02 PM
Pretty work.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Big J on July 01, 2019, 08:15:09 AM
Nice work on the carp  V:;
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 12, 2019, 13:51:08 PM
Went to the pond for the first time in a week. I only saw one feeding close to the bank, it saw me before I could get into position.


 -+; Their behavior is completly different than last year. n!n


I'm not the only one chasing after carp:

Fly fishing for 'sewer salmon' in the L.A. River

QuoteAt 6 a.m. on a recent Saturday, I donned a borrowed pair of waders with a hole just above the butt, wrestled some waterproof boots over my feet and stepped into the muck of a particularly deep patch of the Los Angeles River
.
I came in search of Cyprinus carpio, the common carp, a.k.a. sewer salmon, mud marlin, pond pig, river rabbit, dumpster dolphin, ghetto grouper and septic steelie. If an accumulation of nicknames can be a metric for the amount of affection — however begrudging — that we humans have for a particular animal, it makes sense that the lowly carp is swimming in sobriquets.


https://www.latimes.com/food/sewer-salmon-and-the-secrets-of-the-l-a-river-story.html

and NO, I'm not going to eat pond carp.... jis say'in
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Dougfish on July 12, 2019, 19:48:43 PM
I dub thee Ghetto Grouper.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 22, 2019, 14:10:34 PM

Monday morning, a break from the heat, its in the 70s and overcast. I grab a bagel and a cup of coffee at Camino bakery and then decide to check out the pond for carp activity. I cut the leader off at the 4x and tied on some 15 lb mono and then one of my carp flies.
As I walked the edge of the pond I spotted some mud plumes about 12 feet off the bank and as peered into the stained water I could make out the tails of several carp.. Stripping off a bit of line I made cast after cast to them only to have my fly ignored and eventually they were spooked, but there were more opportunities but again time after time they ignored my offering the only fly that I had with me.
I checked out the other spots at the pond and there they were feeding 20 to 30 feet out but in difficult if not impossible spots to cast to and in one attempt I got hung up in a tree and broke the fly off. Back at the car I searched for some flies and settled into a heavier chartreuse rabbit fly. I went bold and bright since they didn't notice my rusty / grizzly hackled / black fox tail fly.   
I had a few long distance shots, but they scooted away. I was just about to call it quits when a couple of them appeared to be circling into range. Dropped the fly in front of its face and it attacked it, hook set, game on! Carp number 7 from the pond this year put a good bend in the 6 wt and pulled line off the reel with the drag clamped down tight. I only took a couple of minutes to bring it to the net but it seamed much longer.

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Since the carp were still feeding I stuck around and tried for number 8, but it wasn't going to happen and now it was after noon the the heat / humidity was building up and I was hungry, all good reasons to call it a day.

 

p.s. Neil probably would have caught 4 or 5 ... jis say'in
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: itieuglyflies on July 22, 2019, 15:38:26 PM
You are certainly persistent......good going Woolly.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 22, 2019, 16:20:11 PM
Quote from: itieuglyflies on July 22, 2019, 15:38:26 PMYou are certainly persistent......good going Woolly.

A) it's five minutes from the house
B) I know that I can catch them eventually
C) it provides solitude
D) carp are fun
F) I ain't got anything better to do in the morning  d:b
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Fin on July 23, 2019, 11:31:53 AM
Quotep.s. Neil probably would have caught 4 or 5 ... jis say'in

I call BS on this.  You are giving me way too much credit.  My puckered lipped friends routinely provide me with a heavy dose of humility.  Just this past weekend I came across pods of very large grass carp feeding in extremely shallow, fast, riffley water.  These herbivores are excellent at dishing out a royal ass kicking.  I left without so much as a sniff...
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 30, 2019, 10:37:52 AM
 d:b

Number 8 came to hand today, slimy bastard that they are. Most of what I saw was feeding too deep to see, but when this one came in shallow the strip and drop of a chartreuse mop fly was just irresistible and #8 sucked it in. Didn't have my net so landing it was a problem #dontforgetthenet

DFEEBC19-FC62-41F3-9F1A-352EE3086B3B.jpeg

 
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Al on July 30, 2019, 11:56:33 AM
Give ya credit Woolly, you are persistent and it is paying off. bd;0  'c;  bd;0  'c;  bd;0  'c;
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 01, 2019, 10:01:14 AM
So yesterday I was looking for carp at the pond and cast into a mud plume only to hook a dinner plate sized snapper! And today I hooked two more of them  :embarassed: one chased after the fly on the strip. Was able to drank them in close and use the rod tip to dislodge the hook!

Who knew #snappersonthefly #carpblockers

B0B087CA-C07B-4948-80DC-FAD44F641872.jpeg

So easy even Spork could catch one!
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 07, 2019, 18:31:47 PM
I'm still trying to keep pace with last year so I went back to the pond for a bit this morning, it was overcast but there were several feeding in the shallow end and I got a couple of good shots at them. But they declined my offering, one that has worked in the past.

Later in the afternoon I went back for more abuse. There were a couple of kids fishing so my options were limited but again as I waited several carp came within range and I fired off a few shots, rejected again and also snarled in the branches on backcaat led to more frustration.

This was the first time this season that I went in the late afternoon and was surprised at all the activity. I may have to go back to try again for #9
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 08, 2019, 17:57:21 PM
Carp are assholes - jis say'in
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 09, 2019, 12:00:03 PM
Damn it! Two eats today but not landed   :o  n!n
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Sedition and Pockets on August 12, 2019, 10:16:12 AM
I spend a fair amount of time stalking white amur with dries.  It is an incredibly frustrating game, and therefore one worth playing.

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Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 12, 2019, 12:16:27 PM
I've only caught a few on the surface with the exception of the brood cicada hatches!

Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Sedition and Pockets on August 12, 2019, 13:28:55 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on August 12, 2019, 12:16:27 PMI've only caught a few on the surface with the exception of the brood cicada hatches!



They seem to be pretty bug happy in the mornings and evenings, especially when they're cruising around right against the bank.  They were hot after those Japanese beetles when those were around in numbers. It's such a great, slow eat when it comes.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 12, 2019, 14:44:08 PM
Spent my hour at the pond today, it was very quite, only one shot at a carp and I got carp blocked also had one snapper follow  :o

7E4C55E7-6593-437B-8619-B3AE06EEC857.jpeg
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Fin on August 13, 2019, 08:12:48 AM
I've been exploring a new carpin' destination from the high vantage point of my Kaku Voodoo. Ran the numbers this morning.  Two trips, 18 miles of shoreline paddled, six carp in the net.  That's 0.333 carp per miles explored.  Success!?!   
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 13, 2019, 10:28:17 AM
Quote from: Fin on August 13, 2019, 08:12:48 AMI've been exploring a new carpin' destination from the high vantage point of my Kaku Voodoo. Ran the numbers this morning.  Two trips, 18 miles of shoreline paddled, six carp in the net.  That's 0.333 carp per miles explored.  Success!?!   


damn....

I walked the bank a dozen times this morning, had 3 good shots, was denied...
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Sedition and Pockets on August 14, 2019, 20:32:52 PM
Found about an hour to fish this evening, so I slipped down to nothingburger of an urban creek that flows through my neighborhood.  I have not previously fished this because it looked neither appetizing nor particularly fishy, but it turns out to have its own charms.

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Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 14, 2019, 21:11:49 PM
I spent about 30 minutes looking fer carps in the pond this morning had a half ass shot between trees, lost my fly. Came back later in the afternoon when I had a little more time. Got the  n!n from two and then had an eat but it didn't hold!  -+; May try again tomorrow or the next day...  p;-
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 21, 2019, 12:16:09 PM

I've been to the pond many days in a row. The carp are to be found on the bank early in the morning. I had quite a few shots at tailers yesterday and I believe I had a couple of eats, but the visibility is so bad I can't really tell if they have sucked the fly. I tend to strip set if I see them move towards the fly. I even had a hook up. I let out a loud "damn it" in total frustration. I think they are starting to spawn and I've seen many more cruisers. Today I had about 20 shots at bank feeders, but they a) ignored the fly b) changed directions c) spooked d) flipped me off. I started casting to the cruisers on the big flat at 40 to 60 feet out. I was met with similar results but a few appeared to move towards the fly. Finally I got a solid hook up and a damn fine double run from a mirror. Hoping to avoid a "carp in the dirt" photo, I set up the phone on video and then netted the fish. Unfortunately the video totally sucked, but I managed to "improve" the image enough to post it up.

Ladies and Gentlemen I present to you Carp Number 9 for 2019!


https://vimeo.com/355144313

F1EFCBE1-9E4A-4A42-BCCB-367DBE7C0B2F.jpeg

Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 21, 2019, 14:11:46 PM

Lot the top water action begin!

72E746B7-D594-4EC2-B31D-8C338CD32684.jpeg

I've been waiting for there to stop dropping!

Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 27, 2019, 09:47:45 AM

Early visit to the pond this very dark and overcast morning. The conditions were dismal in the flat light. I walked along the bank checking the many spots as I headed toward one of the benches where I set my coffee down . I saw some mud off the bank and peered I onto the stained water trying to separate shadows from reflections. I noticed a fish cruising slowly away and I cast my fly. It way dry and didn't sink right away and I was afraid that the fish would swim under it as has happened many times it the past. The fly got down to the fish and it turned and I saw the lips suck the fly and I strip set. Boom goes the dynamite! That makes number 10 for 2019!

4F7DACB5-4625-487A-8EFB-7818C7612B1D.jpeg


Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Stone-Man on August 27, 2019, 10:34:15 AM
Nice Mirror    'c;
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 31, 2019, 13:03:56 PM
Carp numero 11 was caught this moring. It was a regular common that was cruising around and I got a difficult cast out in front of it and it turned and sucked the fly down and ran hard pulling yards and yards of line off the reel. It came back into the bank with some moderate resistance and then took off again halfway across the pond. I got the net ready as I brought it back into shore. The bank here is steep and about three feet above the water. I made several attempts to net it and then it took off again on a shorter run out into the middle of the pond. Fish was played out and I made another attempt to net it but I missed and it thrashed about and broke off, so no photo. Stuck around for another hour hoping to get number 12. It didn't happen despite having several good shots as they were cruising around the flats...
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 03, 2019, 12:54:30 PM
Just checking on last year's tally and I saw that I caught #9-2018 at the end of August, so I'm ahead of the game. The pond carp have just started their daisy chain activities and I've also seen lone cruisers for the first time this year. I had a couple of good shots this morning, one was a real heartbreaker, a large carp moved to the fly but turned at the last second . I really thought it was going to eat!
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Yallerhammer on September 04, 2019, 09:52:03 AM
I need to give that a try, there's a lake near here that's full of big carp. What fly patterns seem to work best, and what speed strip?
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 04, 2019, 14:49:19 PM
Quote from: Yallerhammer on September 04, 2019, 09:52:03 AMI need to give that a try, there's a lake near here that's full of big carp. What fly patterns seem to work best, and what speed strip?

Read the Karp King's presentation

https://www.brfff.com/forum/index.php/topic,15343.0.html

They are all different and maddening

https://amzn.to/2zPsNzR

BC414704-2681-43A3-875C-597562F140FB.jpeg

Small crayfish, worms, baitfish, it's a match the hatch or what they are eating type of deal and it's either a "Drag and Drop" or very slow strip — it all depends on what your carp are feeding on!
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Sedition and Pockets on September 08, 2019, 11:56:17 AM

Somewhere during the course of the spring, I realized that I have become bored as fuck of trout.  Too easy.  Too predictable.  I needed a new challenge. 

I've also been preoccupied.  After decades of twisted self-denial, I've been out as a transwoman since early summer.  Living my authentic self has been the most rewarding thing I've ever done in my life, but it has significantly disrupted the pattern of my existence, and left me without the time to pursue the long runs and all day expeditions that have been my bread and butter in recent years.  I needed fishing opportunities that I could pursue close to home and in short increments (and targets that weren't fucking trout).

What I found is a large local HOA lake full of grass carp that could on occasion be induced to take a dry.  It is a frustrating and maddening game, full of last second refusals and fish that jet off leaving only a plume of mud to mark their passage. 

More recently, a little exploration led me down to the small creek outflow below the lake.  It's a kinda cool spot, with the creek tumbling over a small cascade below the dam, a feature I've never before encountered in a warmwater flow.  Better yet, the creek is jam packed with both common and grass carp in gloriously skinny water.

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After almost two straight years of near constant rain, the weather here finally dried out beginning in mid-July.  The water levels in the lake have been steadily dropping for about 6 weeks, and this week, the lake no longer overtopped its spillway, and since the main release is bypassed to a feeder creek that joins the main flow a couple hundred yards downstream of the dam, when I arrived, I found that the spigot had been shut off so to speak. The first few hundred yards below the dam had gone dry, with the exception of the large pool at the base of the (now dry) waterfall.

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Even from high up the rock face, I could see a small pod of common carp trapped in the now gin clear pool.  I have mostly been skipping that hole on the way to shallower, less turbulent spots where it was easier to present a fly to the carp, but I wanted to take a shot at fishing some out and transporting them back to the lake before their shrinking refuge vanished entirely (or the oxygen became depleted).

This was easier said than done, and this may have been the most demanding fishing I've ever done.  To avoid spooking the fish in that tiny aquarium, I was forced to remain perched high up the rock face and punch in long and awkward casts from a concealed position. 

It took a few attempts to figure out where to land the fly to drop it down to where the fish were holding, but when I finally dialed it in, I watched a carp greedily suck it up and the fight was on.  I scrambled down the rock face with my net, somehow not breaking my neck in the process.  With nowhere to go, it was a knife fight from the get go, and I was grateful for the 18# tippet I employed.  I brought the fish to the net and was able to successfully release it to the lake.

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After fighting the first fish through every book and cranny of the bathtub, I slipped downstream to give the fish a rest.  Once I found flowing water again, I began looking for carp to stalk.  I found a massive (easily 30#+) female feeding aggressively in a shallow riffle and obtained a hookup o. the first presentation.  The fish jetted up and around a bend and smashed my tippet with contemptuous ease.

I continued to poke around, spotting a handful of mostly grass carp, but in each case, they spooked before I could present a fly.  After a while, I decided to work my way back to where I caught my first fish of the day.  I crept back up the rock face until I was able to slide into my concealing position once more.  The carp were showing signs of having settled down, and this time, I was able to get a solid presentation on the first shot.  Another est, another hookup, and another fish rescued and released back into the lake.

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As the sun began to dip along the horizon, I made a circuit of the lake looking for grassies on dries, but I found no takers.  I packed up my gear and headed home to clean up for the evening, my good deed done for the day.

Cheers y'all!

Dylar

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Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Dougfish on September 08, 2019, 19:49:28 PM
Carptastic!
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 10, 2019, 13:55:40 PM
grassies are fun... I've been denied so many tiems this week that it feels like i'm married.   d:b

had a solid eat this moring but the hook it #12 popped out on the intial run. #%$* @$^#&  n!n Hand anothe one track donw the fly and give it the once over, maybe it ate, couln't see to be sure. Back again another day....

Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Stone-Man on September 10, 2019, 14:30:34 PM
Keith
 Try a green Bully on The Grass Carp. I have had them eat it B/4

 JT
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 10, 2019, 15:18:22 PM
Quote from: Stone-Man on September 10, 2019, 14:30:34 PMKeith
 Try a green Bully on The Grass Carp. I have had them eat it B/4

 JT

Just a comment on Dylers carpage, no grassies where I'm at, jis common / mirror carpage
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 12, 2019, 12:44:03 PM

damn it's hot, I got down to the pond at nine and the carp were all over the place, spawning, cruising, feeding, mostly far out across the pond but I had a few decent shots, the fish ignored or spooked on my fly. I made a hundred cast, there were a few that turned and looked or followed but mostly it was total rejection. I decided to make one more walk down the bank before heading to find some relief from the heat. There was a pod daisy-chaining about 40 feet out and some of them appeared to be clooping I made many casts to the edge just outside of the group of sex fiends and then into the middle of a bunch that was porpoising and much to my amazement number twelve took the fly and the game was on.

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number 12, 2019


Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 20, 2019, 14:28:39 PM

Fin suggested a fly pattern called Sunndguaard's Voodoo Mule, looked like a bit of a pain to tie and I would have had to buy some more material, so I just ordered up a 1/2 dozen from discountfly. They arrived in a couple of days and upon inspection saw that they had a slimmer profile than what I had been tossing. They also had only a bead along with some foam so that they were slow sinkers.

https://youtu.be/vKA-zRpT9aA

I fished it on to days, the first time I had no luck, but today I was able to get one to eat. They have been ignoring the fly all morning but this one was cruising out about 35 feet along with a companion and took the fly and ran with it. Good fight, not the best, it kept trying to get into the bank but fortunately, there wasn't any cover for it to get tangled up in.

Here is numero 13 for 2019.

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Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 25, 2019, 10:40:13 AM

I've hit the pond many days, mostly in the afternoon, during the heat of the day. They are still spawning and I've tried to pick off cruisers with a clouser and other bait fish patterns, I had some follows but they lost interest after chasing the fly for 10 or 15 feet. Today I went in the morning, it was a little overcast and I found fish feeding on the bank. I still had a streamer tied on and cast that, it bonked the fish on the head and he was off. Changed the fly and walked the bank. Second fish was 2 feet off the bank and I cast a little too close and slightly behind, but the fish continued feeding as I stripped the fly in front of its face. It sucked it in and I set the hook. It ran hard against the tightened drag and it took a while to get it in as it ran three or four more times before it was ready to be netted.

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Number 14 for 2019!  d:b

Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Big J on September 25, 2019, 11:46:27 AM
Bossman on a pond carp roll.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 26, 2019, 09:55:57 AM
Wow — no carp today but as I was leaving two young fly fishing gals came along to fish for bass and bream
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 27, 2019, 11:17:34 AM


turns out the gals that came down to the pond are carp hunters, one works at whrovis in GSO and I may have inadvertently spilled the beans while taking part of whorvis free beer at the fly tying deal...

They managed to catch two of 'em, maybe they're better fisherpersons than I or they have mo better flies... gonna track them down at the shop and find out....

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Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 28, 2019, 19:59:11 PM
Ha, tracked her down at the Orvis store and found out that they didn't catch any carp at the pond!
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Yallerhammer on September 29, 2019, 08:30:18 AM
Woolly be stawking the Orvis ladies. :D
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: itieuglyflies on September 29, 2019, 10:25:53 AM
Perhaps Woolly needs to call Al for advice with the ladies.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Dougfish on September 29, 2019, 19:03:54 PM
It's spelled Whorvis.  :laugh:
(The store, not the ladies.)
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 30, 2019, 11:34:08 AM

last year I noticed that there appeared to be one carp that was bigger than the rest. I estimate its length at 36". I got a hook in it last year but it unbuttoned. I haven't seen it this year until today.

It was cloudy and I got to the pond in the late morning, I spied a common feeding off of the bank and thought I had a good shot at it. The cast was a little off but the fish didn't spook and as I dragged the fly in front of its face it moved to inspect it while I held my breath. Then it turned quickly away but swam off leisurely and stopped to feed again. Another cast and another look but I was denied  . The only other fish I saw were cruising out off shore I did cast to them but the odds have always been long on them taking the fly.

I sat down on the bench overlooking the large flat at the shallow end to drink my coffee and check the markets.

I glance up and saw the largest carp mulling about in the shallow. I stripped off line and made a 30 foot cast that landed nicely beyond the carp that looked like a tarpon to me as it's scales glistened in the brightening sky. I did the drag and drop and the carp inspected the fly and then moved on. I cast again and it chased the fly but turned away at the last moment. Same with he third cast. On the fourth cast the fish had moved closer and into shallow water and as I stripped the fly it followed and I watched it eat! I was expecting the round orange lips of a common but this one is a grass carp! The water exploded as I set the hook but the fish didn't run like the commons, soon it was approaching the bank and I got the net ready. Then the fish turned on its motor and powered out into the middle of the pond. It made five or six runs and refused to be netted. The fish was tired and I realized that the only way I would be able to bet it was to wade into he mud of the pond and he. I would have to climb the bank to take a photo only to release the fish. So I stripped the line so the top Guide was tight to the fly and then jabbed the rod tip down and was able to release the fly that was stuck in the front of the upper jaw!  d:b


9AE7E097-0734-46A7-A972-F84EB7E2D75A.jpeg

Who knew there were grass carp in the pond? Not I! Carp number 16 for 2019!
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 02, 2019, 12:29:46 PM

I had an eat or two yesterday. Failed to see them in time to set the hook. Muddy water/bad sun angle/too far away any excuse will do.

Had some shots early today on the good ole chartreuse mop fly! (I've misplaced my voodoo mules) Then I got one to eat, a mid sized common that was furious and took off across the pond running out 60 or 70 feet of line almost to the backing. It left its motor engaged and tried to reach the far shore. Then it arced around to the left and then back to the right as it was looking to get to the shore and the submerged snags. It was one of the best fighters that I've caught at the pond. The fish put a heavy bend in the 6wt as I coaxed it back out into open water. Not giving up yet the fish ran all of the regained line as it rocketed out and headed to to snags to the left. Solid side pressure kept it away from that disaster, but the fish headed to the bank and under the overhanging brush. The bottom here is littered with branches and downed trees and I fought to keep the fish from getting under them. I had almost gotten it past all of the obstacles when it managed to get wrapped up on a branch. Try as I may I did not get the fish untangles and was getting ready to get into the pond with my pant legs furled up when as I  readying the net it escaped and left the fly embedded in the wood.

#17 of 2019 and the first fish of October. Without a polarizing filter on the phone's lens you can't see the fish in this photo.

CEE53DE2-C5EE-44A8-93FA-1C3C6CD5FE09.jpeg

Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 09, 2019, 14:32:45 PM

Bright sunny skies revealed the carp patrolling around the pond. Visibility was great but that worked both ways and several carp fled as I approached the bank. I had one good shot early on but a bluegill carried off the fly before the carp could get it.

A couple of fish just spooked when they came across the fly or leader. Then I spied one feeding out about 60 feet and against the odds I made the cast which was the right length but the fly landed further off to the left than would have been ideal. I watched the fly disappear into the stained water as the carp moved on a steady path towards the fly. I watched the leader and as it moved I set the hook. The carp turned and ran 40 feet to the far side of the pond. There were only a few turns left on the reel before the backing. I gained some line and the fish ran again and again, then it arced into the bank where it sought out snags and submerged limbs. I applied as much pressure as I dared and after clearing the fish and line from limbs got the fish back out into open water and then to the bank where it could be netted. This was one hard fighting fish. Hard to believe this is the same rod that I was trout fishing with last week.

Number 18 for 2019!

2019-10-09_11-08-29_362.jpeg

Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Phil on October 09, 2019, 18:37:37 PM
Git them rubber lippers, Woolly!  /'/
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Dougfish on October 10, 2019, 12:51:04 PM
Salute!
I'm thinking you'll see your backing in a week.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 25, 2019, 19:40:37 PM
When the sun peeked out this afternoon I went to the pond but the clouds came back and visibility was nil. I ended up getting a couple of good shots at a couple of carps tailing in the shallow end. I couldn't see the eat and missed one. I'll keep after them as long as the weather holds.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on January 27, 2020, 14:58:18 PM
John McCoy: A 59-pound fish caught by accident?! How did that happen?

Zach Adkins didn't mind breaking a West Virginia fishing record, even if it was an accident.
"I actually was fishing for pike," said Adkins.
He ended up catching the longest grass carp ever landed in the Mountain State. (https://www.wvgazettemail.com/outdoors/john_mccoy/john-mccoy-a--pound-fish-caught-by-accident-how/article_53096b1d-39ad-57c3-b7cc-10282b7bfcab.html?utm_medium=social&utm_source=email&utm_campaign=user-share)
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 12, 2020, 11:20:55 AM
Well the warm weather has made the carp active and they are cruising about the pond, going to rig up and see if I can catch one!
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 12, 2020, 14:11:36 PM
The cruisers of ignored my offering, one was feeding and I had a foot shot, it did not eat
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Sedition and Pockets on March 13, 2020, 21:54:12 PM
You inspired me to go grub around for some crick donkeys, bossman.  A couple to hand, and tied into two real tanks that found the trouble they were looking for, unfortunately.

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Cheers!

Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Fin on March 15, 2020, 09:29:52 AM
First target, first cast, first hookup, first to come unbuttoned all within the first few minutes of sneaking down the bank. Despite that setback it was a decent day sinking flies in the murky shallows of this busy carp pond. Five to hand including one tank of 10lbs or more that quickly and efficiently ran me far into my backing. No fear of contracting corona here but a hot shower and judicious scrubbing were in order after mucking about in the shallows of this duck gathering hotspot.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Big J on March 16, 2020, 07:50:20 AM
Quote from: Fin on March 15, 2020, 09:29:52 AMFirst target, first cast, first hookup, first to come unbuttoned all within the first few minutes of sneaking down the bank. Despite that setback it was a decent day sinking flies in the murky shallows of this busy carp pond. Five to hand including one tank of 10lbs or more that quickly and efficiently ran me far into my backing. No fear of contracting corona here but a hot shower and judicious scrubbing were in order after mucking about in the shallows of this duck gathering hotspot.

My phone never rang...............
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Fin on March 16, 2020, 08:05:06 AM
Social distancing.   :wave   
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Dougfish on March 16, 2020, 20:01:32 PM
You carp shits.
(I might be jelly.)
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 20, 2020, 13:12:23 PM
 The carps are out and about at my pond.  :cheers

made many cast to cruisers and feeders, the ran away...

Finally hooked a mirror and brought it to net, but as I was negotiating its surrender it got tangled up under a limb and it finally broke off as I was trying to coax it back under the obstruction.

 V:; 

2020 #1 n!n
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 22, 2020, 19:12:33 PM
Low light made it difficult to see the few carp that were out on my pond outing for the day! Waiting for clear skies and warm weather to return
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 02, 2020, 19:23:08 PM
Went to the carp pond, they appear to be getting serious about the grounds being closed as they have tripled grr number of signs inside and outside at parking and blocking trails. So I bailed. No more carp fishing for a while
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Dougfish on April 02, 2020, 20:40:06 PM
Viral Carp days.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Onslow on April 29, 2020, 17:31:41 PM

Went out to a place scouted years ago with the intention of perhaps scoring a few white bass, crappie, and bass, and maybe carp. Morning was slow until arrival at the main event occured.  Changed up some rigging, made a toss or two, then slurp.

After about 15 minutes of tug, yawns were about to set in. The pic would be more impressive if the fish were turned at the 11 o clock position. Body depth was about 8 inches.

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Sadly, this fish is the largest I've landed.

After missing several sucks, this one was beached.  Screw a damn net.

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After losing #3, I tried again to catch some bass for a spell. My son was tagging along, and had lost interest, and be bolted early. It was great to see the carp churn in the weeds. Hell that gets me worked up than rising trout. The carp were there, and hot, but conditions were not ideal. Cloud/Sun/Cloud/extreme wind gusts kinda made sighting more difficult.  A hat flying towards the fish will also scatter em.

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Asparagus/spinach quiche made with ingredients straight from the garden.  Bless the meat, damn the skin, open your mouth, and cram it in. Life is good.

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Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Dougfish on April 29, 2020, 17:36:24 PM
Go Ken!  'c;
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 29, 2020, 21:13:42 PM
Kool karp kontent Ken
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Big J on April 30, 2020, 07:23:59 AM
 /'/  Nice carp work Ken.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: itieuglyflies on April 30, 2020, 11:32:28 AM
Good stuff Ken and just before the latest Monsoon.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: driver on April 30, 2020, 21:56:02 PM
I think Fin told me about this spot for carp. I've wanted to try it.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Big J on May 01, 2020, 07:37:32 AM
Quote from: driver on April 30, 2020, 21:56:02 PMI think Fin told me about this spot for carp. I've wanted to try it.

 :laugh: 
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 06, 2020, 21:09:49 PM
so far the beast is 0-2 as dougfish tries to shake the demons out of his outboard...

found this place on the way home...


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Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Dougfish on June 08, 2020, 07:40:16 AM

Not sure if I'm taking the bote out on the lake again. We'll see.
Fishbug and his little Gheenoe saved my bacon. We fished some water that has been over pressured and managed a couple of carp on Saturday. Marina was a total shit show.
We moved up on Sunday and explored quite a bit further. About 3 miles up a lake arm he tells me he hopes he has enough gas to get back.  :o
We heard a lot of bugs. Saw less than the day before and basically sought out cruisers as we worked our way up. The sweet spot was just around the bend? We never found the sweet spot. I got some refusals, John got the only carp of the day. We powered up for the ride back and after a half mile the 8hp quit. I wrestled the 5 gal tank out of the forward hold and held the tank at an angle to get the cup or two of gas over the pick up. Primed the engine, fired it back up and continued on with crossed fingers. We made it back on a little more than fumes. Home by 1pm. I'm checking the petrol level next time. 

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Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Onslow on June 08, 2020, 09:20:45 AM
Love the Cascade shot. So which creek is that?
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Dougfish on June 08, 2020, 09:47:19 AM
Outlet of Fairystone Lake into Philpott.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: bmadd on June 08, 2020, 14:28:01 PM
The ol guy with boat problems giving another guy with boat problems shit schtick, eh?
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Dougfish on June 08, 2020, 16:32:19 PM
Guilt by association? Lulz.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: itieuglyflies on June 08, 2020, 17:38:21 PM
Some folks should just stick with oars
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Fishbug on June 08, 2020, 17:47:02 PM
Nice report Doug.Empty gas makes a cool story only cause we made it back. Reminds me of that Seinfeld episode....

Rookie mistake—-Im in boating/trailering 101. Haven't  forgot the drain plug yet though...
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 08, 2020, 19:07:36 PM
https://www.instagram.com/p/CBJz2NcjVs0/?igshid=1d50zygwfuwmn
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: RiverbumCO on June 08, 2020, 20:38:23 PM
I see-eth no elbows, thus it doth not count.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Big J on June 09, 2020, 08:09:08 AM
Quote from: Fishbug on June 08, 2020, 17:47:02 PMReminds me of that Seinfeld episode....


I was going to post this. 

I was going to take Doug out in my boat this weekend but now I'm nervous about his boat juju.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Dougfish on June 09, 2020, 12:52:14 PM
I should just go trout fishing.  :embarassed:
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: driver on June 09, 2020, 13:10:46 PM
Quote from: Big J on June 09, 2020, 08:09:08 AM
Quote from: Fishbug on June 08, 2020, 17:47:02 PMReminds me of that Seinfeld episode....


Not many albies have been landed with dougfish in my boat. Not to mention exploding bearings.

I was going to post this. 

I was going to take Doug out in my boat this weekend but now I'm nervous about his boat juju.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Fishbug on June 09, 2020, 14:55:59 PM
Doug the human banana  :Dance
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Dougfish on June 09, 2020, 17:11:22 PM
I should just go trout fishing.  :embarassed:
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: RiverbumCO on June 11, 2020, 14:17:03 PM
I've fished a local to me public lake twice and dicked around on a smallie river nearby, both eat up with cicadas. Carp in the lake aren't eating them, yet, and spook when it hits the water. Smallies could care less. So far I've caught one rainbow, one largemouth and 2 sunfish.

This brood must taste bad.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 12, 2020, 11:11:11 AM
Quote from: RiverbumCO on June 11, 2020, 14:17:03 PMThis brood must taste bad.

Maybe your flies suk?
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Dougfish on June 14, 2020, 18:36:16 PM

Skunk yesterday morning. Engine is still not right.
Met up up with driver and WB. They were moving better than me.
Still the goose egg.
I ended up the day by casting to non interested cruisers and rowing back down the lake to the takeout. Home by 1.
Homies stayed longer. Same result. Longer drive home on the skunk.  :P
 d:b 
I parked the derelict craft in the garage and J and I took his bote out this morning.
We covered as much good looking water as possible at 12 mph or less.
We saw few cruisers. Caught a few brute bluegills. No bass. WTF?  b';
Annnd finally scored a couple of blind casting carp to save the day.

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I have determined that all carp are born at about 5 lbs. We have little bluegills harassing the flies, but not little carp.
Brood IX might be in the books. Disappointing.
Moving on.  :Dance
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Big J on June 15, 2020, 08:26:25 AM

We have been talking about Brood IX for 3 years now.  How epic it will be on Philpott.  Well just like the raging dumpster fire that 2020 has been, Brood IX fit into 2020 perfectly.  Bugs never were really on the water.  Lots of boat and fishing pressure.  Flood gates of rain raised the lake 10 feet after the bugs started hatching. 

May 31st I got out on Philpott.  Solo in the underpowered jon.  Fighting the trolling motor with a good breeze all while trying to spot carp proved to be a fun endeavor.  Hooking into a carp, trying to back the boat away from logs, all while trying to get the carp on the reel and then use a musky net to net a raging carp was entertaining to the passing boats I'm sure.  Ended up boating 8 but most came from one 50 ft stretch of shore that they were stacked up on.  A walleye fisherman filled me in on the spot.  Hats off to him. 

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She's underpowered but she's reliable

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(https://imgur.com/zMzF1kX)

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Had a wedding down in Hotlanta to attend June 6th weekend.  Wanted to squeeze in one last carp trip on Philpott and Doug joined me on June 14th.  Cicada noise was down drastically and literally saw 2 cicadas all day.  Think we spotted maybe 6 cruising carp and none of the cruisers were interested.  2 carp we caught came from blind casts. Doug caught his minutes from quitting time.

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Bluegill kept us entertained while we looked for carp.

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This gill would of made some nice fillets.

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One of two cicadas we saw.

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And that's a wrap.  On to scheming the next, hopefully better, Cicada hatch

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Here's to 2020 Brood IX 


Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Onslow on June 15, 2020, 09:53:38 AM
Those are some damn nice redbreast!  Those little aggro bastards probably consumed 80 percent of the cicadas, lol.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: itieuglyflies on June 15, 2020, 15:22:24 PM
Hope no carp slime was allowed on that fancy new deck on your boat!
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Sedition and Pockets on June 18, 2020, 06:33:53 AM
Poked around on a local creek for an hour or so Tuesday.  Found the skinniest grass carp I've ever seen looking up.  Love the way these fish take a dry.

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Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: RiverbumCO on June 18, 2020, 19:06:58 PM
My local creeks don't have those. Jelly.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 11, 2020, 13:33:35 PM
SECCA carp pond opening 9/16/2020
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 16, 2020, 16:29:09 PM

2020 Carp Pond reopened!

Legally the pond is no longer off limits, although evidence indicates that there has been a lot of people fishing it anyway.

They pulled the large pine that fell in but that is replaced by an even larger oak. The banks are way overgrown and trees are down along the path to the back side.

Carp were feeding and within catchable range, but they gave me the finger.


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oh and they added some $$$ copper gutters, downspouts and flashing.

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Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 19, 2020, 18:20:12 PM
Hit the carp
Pond today— looks like there is a koi in there now - not too big and I had a number of
Shots at it but - it didn't like the fly I was casting — left the carp box at home and only had a chartreuse mop fly

I'll be back
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 22, 2020, 13:55:22 PM
Cruising carp conundrum!

I went to the pond for a couple of hours, the carp were cruising in clusters in pears, A few were feeling, but didn't take the offer to fly. Several may have looked at the fly but turned away. I am now believe there are two Koi in the pond.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 28, 2020, 21:21:33 PM

look who showed up at my carp pond! He had many good shots but couldn't seal the deal...

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I played gullie and carried the net around just in case....

Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Dougfish on September 28, 2020, 21:23:35 PM
Serious footwear.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 30, 2020, 17:56:17 PM
The bum showed up again at lunch time as I was getting ready leave. The carp weren't cooperating for me or the bum. But I went back in the late afternoon and had several reasonable shots at some tailers, but the ingnored the fly that I dragged and droppen onto thier dinner plate. I saw that I caught a grass carp at the pond one year ago, so there is still hope to get back on the board before the odd deminish as fall turns to winter.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on October 22, 2020, 10:54:28 AM
Update from the pond

They whacked the shrubbery along the bank  d:b

807AFCC7-F830-4B72-BA0D-F765A558303C.jpeg

But there is no wind to blow the damn leaves

7056F6E7-9C83-4757-9F6D-1A62C1D40A1B.jpeg

CArp will remain safe today
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 08, 2021, 11:04:27 AM
The development of the old Hanes Property (https://journalnow.com/news/local/housing-proposal-near-secca-has-neighbors-worried-about-flooding-loss-of-woods/article_e1848de1-dd40-5ba6-894f-c3494239659e.html) continues.. they cleared out the woods around the pond to "improve" the view... cutting down many trees, but they did drag out the huge fallen oak that was in the pond, there is still one more oak in the pond on the SECCA property, but the banks have been cleared to open up the lower part of the pond. Hoping they don't fence it off or post it......

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Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on February 17, 2021, 16:22:20 PM
B27BE763-2EB6-47B4-83B7-C803E8F61EE6.jpeg

They have cleared out all of the woods and eliminated the kudzu from this end of the pond and destroyed all evidence of the old trail. I don't think it will be too long from now when they erect a fence and post the land, but I hope it's not until I catch a few carp who like to hang out on this end of the pond.

One think of concern, for the developers, is the state of repair concerning the dam, which imho is in need of repair!
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 09, 2021, 15:28:36 PM
Got a little excited today when I walked down to the pond and saw some mud plumes!
Carp season is about to get underway!  d:b
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 09, 2021, 11:59:47 AM
I'm way behind on the carp count. I've gone about a dozen times. Mostly in the afternoon. There is always potential. They haunt me. I've had a few shots. They see me coming and bolt. Today I went earlier. I cast to cruisers with no luck. One fish was feeding on the bank. The fly dropped. The fish ate. The knot on the leader gave way. I'll be back. 
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Michael Toris on April 09, 2021, 15:33:13 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on April 09, 2021, 11:59:47 AMI'm way behind on the carp count. I've gone about a dozen times. Mostly in the afternoon. There is always potential. They haunt me. I've had a few shots. They see me coming and bolt. Today I went earlier. I cast to cruisers with no luck. One fish was feeding on the bank. The fly dropped. The fish ate. The knot on the leader gave way. I'll be back. 

What knot you running?
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 09, 2021, 15:36:10 PM
Quote from: WMT on April 09, 2021, 15:33:13 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on April 09, 2021, 11:59:47 AMI'm way behind on the carp count. I've gone about a dozen times. Mostly in the afternoon. There is always potential. They haunt me. I've had a few shots. They see me coming and bolt. Today I went earlier. I cast to cruisers with no luck. One fish was feeding on the bank. The fly dropped. The fish ate. The knot on the leader gave way. I'll be back. 

What knot you running?

This was an old blood knot that stepped down from thick to thin, I should have put a new leader on but I was lazy. My bad on that one.  I cursed and then apologized to the ladies up on the parterre.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Dougfish on April 09, 2021, 16:50:54 PM
You had me at parterre.  'c;
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Michael Toris on April 09, 2021, 17:27:39 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on April 09, 2021, 15:36:10 PM
Quote from: WMT on April 09, 2021, 15:33:13 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on April 09, 2021, 11:59:47 AMI'm way behind on the carp count. I've gone about a dozen times. Mostly in the afternoon. There is always potential. They haunt me. I've had a few shots. They see me coming and bolt. Today I went earlier. I cast to cruisers with no luck. One fish was feeding on the bank. The fly dropped. The fish ate. The knot on the leader gave way. I'll be back. 

What knot you running?

This was an old blood knot that stepped down from thick to thin, I should have put a new leader on but I was lazy. My bad on that one.  I cursed and then apologized to the ladies up on the parterre.

I've had more blood knots fail than any other knot. I prefer double uni for carp leaders; give that one a go.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 28, 2021, 15:30:10 PM

I've been to the pond maybe 20 times this year, had one break off a while back, most of the time I see them cruising around but very seldom feeding on the bank. I 've only had a handful of shots at them. The visibility in the pond is dismal, I think this is because of all the clearing along the bank, and there is no retention fence. I was thinking about giving up on this mudhole, but today I had multiple shots at three or four fish, but it's impossible to see their head in the dingy water. I switched over to a chartreuse mop fly with hopes of seeing it, but it disappeared after dropping only six inches. Fish on the bank, cast, drag drop... wait, wait, fish is moving, set the hook! zinnnng went the line across the water. Carp numero uno for 2021!

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Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: RiverbumCO on April 28, 2021, 19:18:38 PM
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Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 29, 2021, 07:41:20 AM
snagger!
 :;!
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 10, 2021, 11:21:05 AM
I keep going back to the pond to stroll the banks in hope of finding feeding carps.

The other day I had a good shot but was carp blocked

A86A444F-372C-4CC3-A694-EA92363713E7.jpeg

Today I was staring at a mud plume for quite a while before I could see the tail.. drag and drop

545D3EA3-F2A9-4A95-90AA-D41EBAA45ED3.jpeg

2021 #2

 
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 20, 2021, 13:02:17 PM
the pond carp are in full on sex crazy mode conjugating in an orgy of mud lust, paying no attention to flies or fisherman.


https://vimeo.com/553010749

 
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 20, 2021, 17:54:39 PM
here's a clip from the past.. WMT and RBC


https://youtu.be/P2lwjsmQ2sE
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Big J on May 24, 2021, 07:02:47 AM


Neil, Doug, and I hit the local sketchy trash hole for the trashy bottom feeders that inhabit it.  I have never been able to stick a carp on this river, mainly because I give up after a half hour of not spotting a carp and start throwing for smallies.  Doug had some parkway "closure" issues and ended up going back home. 

Neil got hooked up early. Fish flopped off after unhooking before we got a photo.
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Not long after, I managed to score a nice mirror.
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We both had a couple more shots and both stung one more carp.  Around 9 the carp just disappeared and we really didn't see any feeding down the river.

Snakes were out thick and ended up throwing for some smallies in the last hour to wrap things up.

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Doug's "closed" gate


Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Dougfish on May 24, 2021, 08:31:16 AM
The gate at the other end of the bridge, ahole.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Fin on May 24, 2021, 10:04:43 AM
QuoteThe gate at the other end of the bridge, ahole.

FYI I drove across the bridge and out of your locked gate when I left.   d:b

In your defense though I think an overambitious contractor locked the gate early then realized the error of his ways and reopened... thank goodness.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 06, 2022, 00:43:27 AM
So I checked out my carp pond and saw some actively feeding in the shallows — and got a few shots in!

The development of the surrounding properties has brought attention to the deteriorating conditions of the dam.

A friend reported some details;

So I got the scoop.  As I was coming in, nice guy was locking the gate.  They have a mtg with the state tomorrow. Dam will be worked on summer/fall and pond fully drained. Trying to save the fish but tbd.  And there are apparently two old trucks in there. And I saw one. Carp!
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on March 27, 2022, 14:54:01 PM
This is a view of the pond dam that will be replaced later this year

https://vimeo.com/692857747
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Dougfish on March 27, 2022, 15:28:40 PM
Sketchy, with bamboo, ftw.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 05, 2022, 08:14:21 AM
Checked out the carp pond yesterday evening, they were out and about and I had a few good shots, but no connection, might try again today, before the rain sets in.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 10, 2022, 09:03:49 AM

I've made several stops at the pond, the carps have been out enjoying the sunny weather, but I've not seen many feeding close to the bank. I've had my shots, but no takers. The other day they were mostly cruising around and had no interest in the fly that I placed in their path. I finally changed flies to a purple voodoo mule and shortly after I had a nice eat as I slowly stripped the fly in front of this mirror.


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And that was it for the day as the rest of them continued to ignore my offers.

This guy was rooting around in a place that would only lead to tragedy.

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So far, I've caught brown trout, white bass, and a carp on my new Whorvis Recon 5 wt.


Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Dee-Vo on April 11, 2022, 07:13:51 AM
Nice work. Hell yea.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 11, 2022, 09:43:53 AM
back at the pond yesterday... carps cruising about.. had a couple of shots at tailers and two fish followed the fly, but no eats...

4 small bass and a pair of bream added to the species caught on the Recon...


D1A181BF-AAFA-4A71-824B-518970D33DF5.jpg
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Fishbug on April 11, 2022, 20:36:32 PM
How do you like the recon?
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 12, 2022, 04:15:58 AM
Quote from: Fishbug on April 11, 2022, 20:36:32 PMHow do you like the recon?


I like it, it suits my casting style / ability — going to be a great dry fly rod when the bugs start popping off — selling points 1) made in the USA
2) $60 repair / replacement of broken section in days without sending in broken section 
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 22, 2022, 14:45:36 PM

things kept me close to home today.


chanced upon a couple of feeding carp, two out of four were interested, also got carp blocked by an aggressive mini bass

second fish came after a bow and arrow cast under a tree.

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Won't be too long before they start working on the dam and draining the lake, I put a call into the fish biologist to see if they have any plans for the fish...


Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Dee-Vo on April 22, 2022, 16:05:24 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on April 22, 2022, 14:45:36 PM

things kept me close to home today.


chanced upon a couple of feeding carp, two out of four were interested, also got carp blocked by an aggressive mini bass

second fish came after a bow and arrow cast under a tree.

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Won't be too long before they start working on the dam and draining the lake, I put a call into the fish biologist to see if they have any plans for the fish...




This is awesome. I only have one pond to fish with carp and I'm not even sure I can fish there anymore. And those carp in there are huge. I've hooked a couple and lost them each time.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 22, 2022, 17:12:55 PM
Quote from: Dee-Vo on April 22, 2022, 16:05:24 PMI've hooked a couple and lost them each time.

15 lb fluorocarbon
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Onslow on April 23, 2022, 06:15:35 AM
Damn, that mirror is hefty. Awesome!  Keith takes the Aston Martin to compete in tractor pulls, lol.  That reel is made for carpin.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 24, 2022, 10:24:33 AM
Quote from: Onslow on April 23, 2022, 06:15:35 AMDamn, that mirror is hefty. Awesome!  Keith takes the Aston Martin to compete in tractor pulls, lol.  That reel is made for carpin.


7200 RPM
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 04, 2022, 13:31:23 PM
Hawaiian Spearfisherman Kills 82 Fish to Win National Championship
The spearfishers were targeting invasive fish, so the competition doubled as a conservation effort


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https://www.fieldandstream.com/conservation/national-spearfishing-winner-kills-82-invasive-fish
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Fin on May 05, 2022, 11:23:21 AM
The spearfishers were targeting invasive fish

  :'(   It always amuses me what the powers that be classify as "invasive" verse legit gamefish. The list of actual invasives (non-native fish) is a very, very long one.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 27, 2022, 14:08:50 PM
Smith is blown out — I was jonesing for a tug — hit the carp pond — found one feeding close to the bank — drag and drop — stuck in the lip - nice fatty to the net!

— carry on
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 29, 2022, 16:06:09 PM
I've strolled around the pond the last couple of days looking for tailers, I had few opportunities, and the carp weren't cooperative.
A kid was spin fishing for bass and bream and had caught a couple, he was fascinated by my tails of catching carp, he had hooked one but couldn't bring it in.

I walked across the dam, aa nice fat northern banded water snake slithered out of my way. I fished the far side and then returned only to see the snake again. The kid asked if I had seen a snake and I told him twice, and he said he had seen it earlier.

I was fishing the near shore and the kid had worked his way around the pond to the far side when I heard a woman talking on her phone, apparently communicating with her son who was fishing, and I heard her indicate that she would come across the dam to him. I thought about the snake and thought to myself, "this will be good" I watched the mom start across the dam and then head a loud shriek as she scurried back. When she came close, I asked, "Didn't your son warn you about the snake?"

"Oh, no he didn't, they don't bother him" she replied. 

anyway, no carp were caught that day...

Today I had one decent shot, but carp was blocked by a small bass.

Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 21, 2022, 09:15:20 AM
Why You Should Keep Carp, and How to Use Them
Whether you're using them for food, bait, or fertilizer, carp can be a lot more useful than many think


1) Pressure-Can Carp To Get Rid of the Bones
2) Brine and Smoke Carp Fillets
3) Make Carp Meatballs
4) Use Carp For Catfish Bait
5) Fertilize the Garden and Feed Chickens With Carp



https://www.fieldandstream.com/fishing/how-to-use-carp/



I vote for number 5
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Big J on June 21, 2022, 09:33:21 AM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on June 21, 2022, 09:15:20 AMWhy You Should Keep Carp, and How to Use Them
Whether you're using them for food, bait, or fertilizer, carp can be a lot more useful than many think


1) Pressure-Can Carp To Get Rid of the Bones
2) Brine and Smoke Carp Fillets
3) Make Carp Meatballs
4) Use Carp For Catfish Bait
5) Fertilize the Garden and Feed Chickens With Carp



https://www.fieldandstream.com/fishing/how-to-use-carp/



I vote for number 5

You trying to piss Fin off?
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Fin on June 22, 2022, 11:25:11 AM
QuoteWhy You Should Keep Carp, and How to Use Them
Whether you're using them for food, bait, or fertilizer, carp can be a lot more useful than many think


1) Pressure-Can Carp To Get Rid of the Bones
2) Brine and Smoke Carp Fillets
3) Make Carp Meatballs
4) Use Carp For Catfish Bait
5) Fertilize the Garden and Feed Chickens With Carp



https://www.fieldandstream.com/fishing/how-to-use-carp/

The horror! All carp should be handled delicately with pre-moistened hands and quickly released without ever being lifted from the water. 
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on July 18, 2022, 06:12:52 AM
Lake Mattamuskeet suffered from run-off pollution, invasive species


https://wr.al/1NV9x
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on August 08, 2022, 06:17:46 AM
https://www.instagram.com/reel/CgupoPmpEnc/?igshid=NmZiMzY2Mjc=
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 19, 2022, 09:45:47 AM
A888E728-EA8B-4688-A79B-57DF9BE4EEA0.jpg

Albie practice at the pond — picked this guy off — chartreuse mop fly   d:b
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on September 23, 2022, 12:19:33 PM
Crawdad and Shrimp Stuffed Carp Recipe
This stuffed carp recipe will wow your guests in more ways than one. It has a beautiful presentation, delivers incredible flavor, and is best eaten in a unique way – with your hands.

In this carp recipe, a whole carp is stuffed with crawdads (aka crayfish), shrimp, and seasonings. The stuffed carp is then wrapped up in banana leaves and grilled. The banana leaves create a pocket around the fish, trapping steam, liquids, and flavor within.


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https://www.gameandfishmag.com/editorial/crawdad-shrimp-stuffed-carp-recipe/464856
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: itieuglyflies on September 23, 2022, 14:33:00 PM
Not so sure about that presentation....looks like the carp was infected with a host of internal parasites...
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Trout Maharishi on September 23, 2022, 18:56:00 PM
Looks like a waste of some good pineapple, shrimp, and mud bugs.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 03, 2022, 18:55:40 PM
I walked around the pond today, had a couple of shots at cruisers but no luck. Ran into another carp junkie. Aaron from WS has caught several of the SECCA carps.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on April 16, 2023, 11:29:36 AM
https://www.instagram.com/reel/CpKu4Q7ji86/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Dee-Vo on April 17, 2023, 07:29:22 AM
I've gained access to a pond with carp. I spent Saturday late evening trying to catch one. No success still...

The hunt continues.

I did catch a few bass, however.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 01, 2023, 14:00:00 PM
First carp of '23, a nice mirror that ran me to the backing on the 5wt with a click and pawl CFO

I'll have to start taking the net, if I want to get photos...

Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 02, 2023, 13:02:43 PM
With the sunny skies I thought it would be a good day to catch another carp. Well, things didn't start off great, the wind blew the rod and reel of the roof of the car, putting a little ding in the rim. Now it hits the line guard on every revolution and probable would cause a light tippet to break if the fish started pulling line. I'm going to send it to orvis and have them true the spool.


I had  couple of shots at feeding carp but the wind didn't help my chances any and I finally gave up after an hour or so without any luck.


Edit: once I took the spool of the reel, I realize that I could easily make the repair myself. All good now!

Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 03, 2023, 17:46:54 PM
Wicked wind protected the carp today. Work is being done below the damn dam clearing out the bamboo.

And the state coughed up the money to get a tree removed from the pond opening up a big flat where carp have been caught before.

82BCA035-FB0C-49B6-B019-4C872066E716.jpg



IMG_7612.jpg
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 04, 2023, 11:11:50 AM
That's the way to do it!

Nice sunny day not too windy I have a carp feeding close to shore!

IMG_7630.jpg

IMG_7635.jpg 

plus a couple of pune bass.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 06, 2023, 13:06:35 PM
Another day, another carp!

"Watch the top knot," is what Bob White always says.

Caught a big ole mirror carp and it put up a good fight but an amorous carp followed it tenaciously. After a couple of runs I had the net at the ready the mirror and it's friend swam into the net, but I needed to grab the leader before scooping one or both fish up in the net. As I held on to the fly line the carp thrashed and pulled and the perfection loop knot popped and both fish swam away!

I had broken off earlier and when replacing the leader with 3x fluoro I briefly considered tying a figure 8 loop, which is my goto carp knot, but opted for the simple perfection loop. Would that knot have held?

I had several other opportunities but I only hooked that one fish.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 08, 2023, 14:53:26 PM
The carp areout, cruising around. There are some swimming in pairs and triples in pre-spawn activity. None of them wanted anything to do with my fly but I continue to fish in hopes that one of them was the village idiot after a while I thought that I might be the village idiot and then things came together and I found one that was feeding and he took the fly.

IMG_7661.jpg

IMG_7669.jpg

I gave them a rest for a bit and then went after them again, refusals and frustration, then I foul hooked one and I let it run 20 yards before putting on the breaks. The fly popped off the leader and I had to retie. Then I scouted the flats area looking for more feeders. There were a couple of spin anglers on the other side and one called out, "Bossman, are you trying to catch the carp"? "I am catching them," I replied. "What are you using?" "A fly" "What?" "A fly, a carp fly, fur, feathers, and rubber." 'How big was it?' "Five pounds" " He asked again, holding out his hands, and I had to show him that it was about two feet long.

I got a kick out of the "Bossman" monicker.




Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 09, 2023, 11:03:16 AM
The koi in the pond was the only one feeding close to the bank, but this guy won't take my fly. I had numerous shots at it, putting the fly right in the dinner plate only to have it ignored.

It was cloudy and difficult to see them but I finally targeted a mirror that was feeding and I had a good fight brining it to the net.

The sun is out now but the wind has picked up.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 10, 2023, 12:32:44 PM
IMG_7681.jpg

Another day, another carp...

still waiting on the Smith to drop down to the normal flow 
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 11, 2023, 10:51:35 AM
Carp are in full on orgy spawn mode — doubtful I will be able to catch one today.

https://vimeo.com/825904605

A few bass and bream were caught.

Back to the Smith tomorrow  d:b
Title: effin carp!
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 16, 2023, 14:46:32 PM
It was a disastrous day at the pond. I was sitting in the parking lot getting ready to rig the rod for carp when I got a call from Riverbum who said he'd be over after a showing. I tied up a new leader out oa eight pound fleuro using a figure eight loop knot and tied on a voodoo mule.

There were carp feeding and I had a couple of good shots that didn't pan out. Finally I got one to eat and strip set the hook the carp tore off and the top kont broke! Damn it! WTF! I was dismayed that the knot failed.

As I sat on a bench tying a new leader, I began to doubt the strength of this knot on 8 lb fleuro. I even checked the vidoe, just to make sure I wasn't fucking it up. I tied it again and when I pulled tight to test its strength, it snapped, well damn. I guess I'll save that knot for heavier tippet. As I tied on another voodoo mule, the RiverBum showed up and was making some cast to the carp feeding in the flats.

He had some shots but they were mostly 30 to 40 feet out, which is a low percentage game. We solved none on the world's problems as we walked the bank looking for feeders. The bum got snagged on a bank bush and attempted to rip the fly out and the rod snapped! A TFO 7wt. That signaled that it was tiem to go. I made a couple of more cast to a feeding carp and thought I had an eat, but ended up with nothing.

 
Title: Re: effin carp!
Post by: Fin on May 16, 2023, 16:23:13 PM
The Voodoo Mule is the shizzzz. Someone needs to tie up a larger version for smallies. Would be the fly fishermen's equivalent of the Ned rig.
Title: Re: effin carp!
Post by: Fin on May 16, 2023, 16:28:34 PM
Quote8 lb fleuro.

Bossman you're just asking for heartbreak (and lots of long lost departed flies). It's mostly 15lb fluoro for me. Occasionally ultra spooky fish in clear water might call for 12lb fluoro.   
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 17, 2023, 12:54:30 PM

Went back again today, thought about getting some 12 lb leader, but went with the 8lb again as usual.

They were feeding and swimming in pairs, with some spawning activity. But I managed to get one to take the voodoo mule (I order them by the dozen)

Snapseed.jpg
#6


Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 18, 2023, 13:24:21 PM
Snapseed.jpg

I'll never understand these fish! I had one feeding 15' away, I cast and drug the fly over to the dinner plate 4 or five times, it just grazed around and finally spooked.

But when the do eat, hold on, cause they run hard! The one I caught continued to fight all the way to the net! 
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 30, 2023, 13:56:30 PM
Since they opened up the spigot on the Smith, I went to the pond today— hooked one right off the bat, but it unbuttoned.

IMG_8083.jpg

The hawk and the crow were going at it.

82A3DFA8-2BED-4FCE-8339-4A2D321B5865.jpg
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Dee-Vo on May 31, 2023, 07:32:11 AM
That app is great. It's the 'berries' -- I read that phrase in a book this morning. Anyone remember that saying? I don't, probably too young...
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on May 31, 2023, 16:28:41 PM
IMG_8093.jpg


Very difficult conditions this morning with an overcast sky. They're almost impossible to see. There were number of them feeling close to the bank. Several of them ignored me but I finally got one to eat and when I strips set, the fish took off and boom the line broke.  Switching to the Neil recommended 12 pound fluorocarbon. I also got carp blocked with two large mouth bass.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 01, 2023, 09:42:18 AM
Went and got some 12 lb fluorocarbon and headed to the pond

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#8


DSFK
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Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Fin on June 01, 2023, 10:52:36 AM
Quotegot some 12 lb fluorocarbon

 'c;

I think the last time I broke off a carp was during the 2017 cicada hatch on Lake James. There were so many downed trees along that shoreline you were forced to clamp down the drag or kiss 'em goodbye!

I have however straightened some hooks trying to stop a long run with eminent danger ahead.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: trout-r-us on June 01, 2023, 11:33:57 AM
Riding around up here in Chalfont, PA at Peace Valley Park. Here on a funeral trip, so no rods handy.
Thought of you carpy guys when a walk on the bridge over the headwaters reveals dozens of the old rubber lipped denizens. They were jumpin', muddin', and just lounging. Some real big boys and girls.

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Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 02, 2023, 14:00:25 PM
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And that's the takeaway from today.

Sure I had my shots, you married guys will know what it's like to be denied!
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: dhjunkie on June 19, 2023, 18:19:49 PM
Quote from: Woolly Bugger on June 02, 2023, 14:00:25 PMIMG_8110.jpg

And that's the takeaway from today.

Sure I had my shots, you married guys will know what it's like to be denied!
oh yea"shot down in a blaze of glory "
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 23, 2023, 12:32:20 PM

Cabin fever and a break in the weather led me to the carp pond. It was heavily overcast and the fish were very difficult to see. A number were feeding close to the band, but when you can't see them it's very difficult to catch them. Some even spooked before I could get off a cast. As I walked around I saw the mud plumes of a feeding carp, but my heart sank when I realized that it was the koi. This fish "appeared" 3 or 4 years ago, and has grown quite a bit. I've cast to it a hundred times, and all it has done is run away! I made a drag and drop cast and was stunned when it took the fly.

It fought hard and made several good runs before capitulating.

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#9

and the bluebirds have another clutch...

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Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: itieuglyflies on June 23, 2023, 17:21:11 PM
That fish looks like it has been dead about a week or so.....
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on June 23, 2023, 17:28:14 PM
Quote from: itieuglyflies on June 23, 2023, 17:21:11 PMThat fish looks like it has been dead about a week or so.....

pound for pound the hardest fighter of all the pond carp I've caught.
Title: Re: Carp unlimited
Post by: Woolly Bugger on November 29, 2023, 12:12:26 PM
DIY Fly Fishing for Carp: It's Popularity has Grown for a Reason
Texas Bonefish, River Rabbits, Swamp Donkeys, whatever you call them, they will earn your respect.

Fly fishing for carp is more hunting than fishing. It is a visual pursuit of a fish that is incredibly wary, surprisingly strong, and, luckily for the fly fisherman, readily accessible.

Carp like to feed in extremely shallow waters, which presents the angler with the opportunity to sight fish for this unique and often misunderstood species. An angler shouldn't sell them short, though; they will frustrate you with their savvy and challenge you with their strength.

Carp's Undeserved Bad Reputation
Common carp were introduced to America in the mid-1800s to be farmed for food due to their prime table fare in Europe. However, that doesn't mean all carp taste good. Their flavor has a direct correlation to their diet and the quality of the water they come out of. Carp possess a fast growth rate and a primitive air bladder, allowing them to live in 'less than ideal' environments. Because of this, in some circles, the carp has the reputation as a 'trash fish,' but don't be so quick to judge. Their wariness, feeding behavior, and powerful runs when hooked make them a fun and worthy fish to pursue with the fly rod.

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https://www.mensjournal.com/pursuits/the-endless-season/diy-fly-fishing-for-carp-popularity-has-grown-bryson7