Sinkers for carp fishing: what types are there and how to choose

“Auxiliary” types of carp loads

In addition to the main types of sinkers, traditionally distinguished by shape, at the moment there are other types that have (one might say) an auxiliary purpose - these are back leads and marker weights. So what are they?

Marker weights

At first glance, marker loads are somewhat similar to “flu”. But if you look closely, their structural shape is more reminiscent of a “heroic mace” than a “pear” with spikes. It is this type of design (with an elongated “mace handle” and a spiked “impact part”) that essentially kills 2 birds with one stone. Providing the sinker with both normal “flight” properties (for marking at long distances) and sensitive “grip”.

Back sinkers (back leads)

It is possible that inquisitive newcomers, hearing about them for the first time, will immediately ask the question: why did the British so strangely call them “Back Lead”? There's no trickery or British humor here. Back leads earned this name due to their “rear” location relative to the main sinkers. That is, they are closer to the carp rod. Their main task is to sink the line after casting the gear.

What are the best carp hooks in carp fishing?

On the shelves of fishing stores there is a huge selection of hooks, both from our manufacturers and foreign ones. It's no secret that they differ from each other in numbering and quality. As for the latter, we will leave this up to the companies, but we will focus on the sizes and numbers.

Let us immediately note that abroad there is no unified marking system (for example, depending on the size of the individual elements of the hook and the shape of the structure as a whole). Most often, foreign companies simply indicate the relative sizes of hooks, moreover, of their own production. You are your own boss!

In order to navigate foreign hook numbers for carp fishing, it is important to know that “foreign friends” use the following marking principle: the smaller its size, the larger the number. That is, on the contrary

Thus, the smallest model is numbered 32, and the largest is 20/0.

Hook numbering table

According to Russian standardization, the larger the fishing hook, the larger the number. Everything is humane, logical and understandable. But that's not all. Since the times of the USSR, the numbering of our hooks is calculated not “by eye” (as in foreign companies), but according to a separate marking.

That is, the formula for a domestic product includes: Roman numerals (indicating the type of structure), the width of the model (No.), then comes the thickness of the forearm and the overall length.

No. 6 – the width of this model is 6 mm
0.4 – fore-end thickness 0.4 mm
12 – total length of the product 12 mm
(IV) – the shape of the hook is “double-bent” with a ring.

We invite you to read: Zeroing an optical sight step by step instructions

We present to your attention vivid examples of the best models of carp hooks (specifically for sports carp fishing). And one example - which is strictly prohibited to use.

That is, we have selected 3 options:

the safest for carp health;
the most popular is the classic choice;
and, one of the most dangerous (information for beginners in carp fishing).

"Long Shank"

As can be seen from the name itself (using the translation from English), this hook differs from the others - it has a long shank / shank. According to most fishermen, it is this form of hook (i.e., the “longshank” modification) that allows the fish to cause the most minimal harm (without injuring the carp’s lips). The best option for carp fishing. However, this circumstance does not in any way affect its excellent “hunting” characteristics.

Hooks for carp fishing with an elongated shank are able to quickly unfold, thereby providing a fairly high self-cutting coefficient (reliably and deeply penetrating the fish’s lip, but without (!) damaging it). They are an excellent choice for creating both floating (pop-up) and sinking presentations, perfectly combined with hair accessories

Ideal for gear for the most cautious carp “Blowback rig” (with a ring sliding along the fore-end)

"Wide Gap"

In translation - “wide gap” (according to our standard characteristics - “wide pry”). A classic choice in the world of carp fishing. The main advantage of just this form of hook, that is, with a wide hook / “gap”, is the provision of an “iron” guarantee that even with prolonged fishing (even a large and heavy “trophy”) the fish will not jump off.

Due to the high level of competition, foreign manufacturers are trying to outstrip each other in terms of workmanship and innovations (i.e., their “highlights”). Therefore, today there is no single standard for such hooks. They come in different sizes and shapes. We just have to choose which ones are better.

"Curved Shank"

A model with an elongated shank/foreend is considered especially dangerous for injury, since when actively fishing for carp (“thanks to” this design), the effect of a can opener is often triggered, literally turning pieces of meat out of the fish’s lips. Despite many prohibitions (mainly in Europe), most karpolovs still continue to use it, since its main advantage is simply a phenomenal cutting coefficient (and without the use of any auxiliary elements).

Build gear

Every fisherman who fishes for carp must have in his arsenal several of the best carp rods with a reel. Moreover, each of the gears must perform its specific function.

Rods designed for catching this type of fish differ in length, test, and purpose.

However, this tackle is only suitable for use at short distances. If you need to fish for carp at long distances, then you need to choose a more powerful model. For example, when fishing over 120 yards, a 3.75-pound test design should be preferred.

In order to successfully catch carp in places where there is an abundance of algae and snags, you may need the power of the blank, so you need to choose a fishing rod that has a large test. If the fish decides to hide in the snags, then it will be necessary to turn it around. It is in this situation that a tackle with a dough of 3.25 to 3.5 pounds will help.

If a fisherman wants to add a rod and reel to his arsenal that is not too hard and not soft, then when choosing gear you should pay attention to a design that has neither a fast nor a slow action. Many fishermen do not like rigid and powerful fast-action gear

In such models, the bend occurs at the tip. If we talk about slow action rods, then models that do not have a lot of dough will bend from the tip. If we talk about slow action rods, then even in those models that have a large test, the bend will start from the butt and reach the tip.

Rod length

It is necessary to choose gear according to this parameter depending on the height of the person who will use it for fishing. If the fisherman’s height does not exceed 175 cm, then the length of the gear should vary from 3.5 to 3.7 m.

The fishing process can be controlled using long carp tackle. This is an extremely important point when fishing takes place on rivers or in places where access is difficult.

In such conditions, the rod should always be raised up. Even under its own weight, it is extremely difficult for a carp to bend the long structure of a fishing rod and reel. As a result, the fisherman has an advantage.

Carp gear has another positive feature. It lies in the fact that most often such tackle consists of two parts. Thanks to this, even long products can be transported without problems in a car or on public transport.

Rod test

The weight applied to the tip of the tackle, located horizontally, is usually called a test. Under the pressure of the weight, the tip should bend by 90 degrees. For this reason, the higher the test, the more impressive sinkers in terms of weight can be thrown without fear of the tackle breaking.

When choosing gear with a reel for carp fishing, you should also focus on the size of the reservoir. If it is small, then most often there are no large carp in it. Therefore, you can choose a rod design that has a small test.

https://www.youtube.com/watch{q}v=YLMHjcgRy9g

If carp fishing will take place in a large body of water, it is necessary to throw PVA bags or fish over long distances. The fishing distance in this case will influence the choice of test.

There are quite a lot of options for constructing a fishing rod designed for catching fish such as carp. However, for convenience, only three options are most often mentioned:

Fast.
Semi-fast.
Slow.

Using such gear, fishing for fish becomes an unpleasant task, since they look more like an ordinary stick. Due to the high rigidity of the form, there is a high risk of breaks or slippage of the “leash”. In order to eliminate this problem, it is necessary to use a stretchable fishing line.

This class includes carp tackle for universal use. Used for fishing, they allow you to throw method feeders without any difficulty, and with high accuracy.

They can also be used to throw medium and small sized packages. When playing, these rods perform quite well. If you use semi-fast rods when fishing, then you don’t need to use any special equipment to achieve quick results.

In addition, they provide the opportunity to use fishing line. These rods only work in combination with light weights. When fishing for carp using a long casting package, using them for a slow action is not the best solution.

Carp sinkers. Main types. Advice for a beginner carp fisher.

The variety of shapes and sizes of carp sinkers often confuses a beginner in carp fishing when purchasing and choosing them. Oddly enough, most of the fishermen I met on carp fishing grounds and ordinary rivers in completely different conditions used simple bullet-shaped weights, justifying their choice with the maximum casting range. On domestic specialized forums, attention to the shape of the carp sinker is often considered unnecessary, advising to focus on mounting and securing the bait. However, the world's leading manufacturers annually introduce new products, and professional carp fishermen, using them, increase fishing productivity and win competitions.

The one who is more prepared wins. It would seem that the task of the cargo is limited to delivering the equipment to the required distance. However, in addition to accuracy and casting range, the most important condition for a successful carp session is the presence of the bait in an attractive form at the feeding point for a sufficiently long time. Waiting for a bite without changing bait, followed by additional feeding with a slingshot, rocket or cobra is a feature of carp fishing. Current, bottom type, presence and amount of vegetation all affect the presentation of the bait and its position relative to the feeding spot.

Main types of cargo.

Bullets, bombs, torpedoes.

This group includes elongated, smooth, bullet-shaped weights with low aerodynamic drag. Their main area of application is a wide range of distances with the main focus on extremely long-range zones. The best casting range with the same weight and mounting design is the main advantage of such loads; in addition, the bullets splash down without unnecessary noise, which does not scare the fish even at shallow depths. The main disadvantage is considered to be poor edge retention; installation with such a sinker slides off sand and stone slopes, regardless of weight. On the muddy bottom, the load sinks and pulls the equipment along with it. Positive characteristics are revealed to the maximum in “helicopter” type installations.

Pear-shaped.

Another universal load. Its cross section has a symmetrical pear-shaped shape with good aerodynamics. However, in terms of casting range, the pears are inferior to the previous option. At the same time, the classic pear does not hold a smooth, hard sandy or rocky bottom even with a slight current, and slides on edges and riffles. In installations like helicopter and Chod Rig, this sinker is most effective.

Flat pears.

Essentially it is a flattened modification of the classic pear shape. Two flat surfaces on top and bottom of the load stabilize its position on a smooth bottom, increasing the area of contact with the latter, preventing it from sliding on smooth soils and sinking in silt. In my opinion, this is the most multi-purpose cargo. If you don’t chase distant horizons and don’t fish in strong currents, then a flat pear has the optimal combination of advantages for all conditions. A classic example with an ideal combination of price and quality can be considered a sinker from Fox https://englishfishing.ru/catalog/leads/gruzilo_grushevidnoe_ploskoe_flat_pear_swivel_lead/.

Positive features also include quick access to the middle layers of water when reeling in equipment, which is important in overgrown carp reservoirs. Works equally well on all blind installations.

Square.

The shape of the load is not necessarily a cube; in cross-section it can be a rhombus or a rectangle. The main feature of such loads is the maximum efficiency of hooking carp, even on hinged mounts and careful biting. Flat sides help keep the load on a smooth, hard bottom and smooth slopes. However, on muddy ground, the square load sinks, and poor flight characteristics limit fishing distances to medium and close zones. A natural condition for its use is blind installations.

Loads with lugs.

Flat weights, mostly pear-shaped, with spikes on the flat sides, sometimes with a depression or hole inside. They are designed specifically for aggressive river currents. They hold up well on any bottom, on edges and ledges. Good contact with the bottom guarantees high-quality hooking with minimal, even very careful movement of the fish. The shape of such weights does not allow fishing at long distances, but in other conditions, with any blind installation, this is the best option for the current.

Inline.

This group includes carp sinkers of any shape and size with a hole inside designed for sliding installation. Inline is more focused on feeder fishing, but it also has a place in carp fishing. Such a load will be useful in late autumn and early spring, when the carp are inactive, motionless and timid. The weight of the load in the inline does not alarm the fish, allowing it to freely take the bait, however, at the same time, the quality of the hook is noticeably reduced.

Size and color. The weight of the load primarily depends on the test of the rod and the required casting distance, and a lot has been written on this topic. As for color, the importance of camouflage coloring should not be underestimated. It’s not for nothing that loads of various colors and patterns are produced to match any color of the bottom. There are no minor details in carp fishing, especially if the target is a specimen of three kilograms or more.

The types of sinkers described do not pretend to be an exhaustive classification, but will only help a beginner to navigate the available diversity. There is a lot in the fishing industry that is far-fetched and clearly smells of “ordered-in”, but many new products are useful and the importance of progress should not be underestimated. Learn the “materials” and experiment, and the carp will reward you with bites.

Happy experiments and singing forests!

Differences in purpose

Depending on their intended purpose, carp fishing rods are divided into two main groups: main (working) options and auxiliary ones. The first ones are used directly for catching carp during most of the fishing (the classic choice is 4 “sticks”). The second ones are for auxiliary actions (marker and spod - 1-2 pieces each), that is, for reconnaissance and feeding of the future fishing point.

In order to know how to choose the right carp fishing rod, you need to understand the basic principles of all these types of gear (main and auxiliary). Let's figure it out: why is it necessary to choose three types of rods for carp fishing?

Working / (main) carp rod

So, as we wrote earlier, the “main” carp fishing rods are designed for casting bait and (after biting) landing the carp on the shore. It is they who bear the main responsibility for the entire outcome of the fishing. Therefore, if you make the wrong choice, then in the best case, you won’t see any big fish, and in the worst case, you will again have to fork out money for a new product.

In the process of choosing a fishing rod, the main criterion for experienced carp fishermen is that the form “merges with the hand” and is like its “native” continuation. Like a samurai sword (as expressed in). But this is a deep philosophy. For beginners, everything is much simpler

It is important not to buy something that is simple, looks solid and is expensive. Or, on the contrary, it is suspiciously cheap

When choosing the very first fishing rod in your life, it is not advisable to buy mega budget models (they can be fakes) and expensive products (if you have financial capabilities). Since, initially, it is very difficult to decide what exactly will suit you best. That is, strictly according to your fishing style. Over time, you will definitely develop personal preferences. And then buy the super option.

Marker carp rods

"Marker" from the "people's" manufacturer DAIWA

They belong to the category of auxiliary carp rods, they have almost all the characteristics (mentioned above) of working forms, but differ from them in design. The main feature of the marker rod is its ultra-sensitive tip, which allows you to feel with your hand any vibrations of the marker sinker transmitted through the fishing line to the blank when exploring the bottom.

That is, having even an initial level of knowledge about how to use a “marker”, you can relatively quickly collect all the necessary information not only about the depth (using special marks on the form), but also the nature of the bottom: is it muddy or sandy, clay or rocky?

Important advice! If you have only recently embarked on the “path of karpolov”, then purchasing a marker rod should be your priority. Fishing for carp is not an easy task and requires a tactical/thoughtful approach. Therefore, fishing even without basic knowledge of the bottom is fishing “at random” / almost in vain. Over time, we recommend that you acquire a more advanced achievement of technological progress - an echo sounder.

Spod / (rocket) carp rod

Similar to the previous option, it also belongs to the category of auxiliary fishing rods. The main purpose is to cast baits (usually special devices - “heavy” rockets) as far as possible to future fishing points. Never use worksheets as spods! Since the latter were specially designed specifically for these purposes and have mega power. No other fishing rod can withstand such loads.

Experienced karpolov skillfully use “long-range” models of “spods”, designed for throwing very heavy rockets to the bait point (8 lb test), and over long distances. Beginners should opt for the “golden mean” - universal spod rods (for example, 5 lb test), optimally suited for casting light (and medium-weight) feeders over long distances and relatively heavy ones over medium distances.

Special / (special) types of rods

First of all, these are combined models. Some manufacturers produce “2 in 1” rods, for example “spods + markers”. That is, having increased power, but, at the same time, a sensitive tip and special marks on the blank, they are perfect for bottom exploration and for casting bait/rocket.

Also, there are models literally designed to meet the requirements for sea fishing. They are designed for “stalker” carp fishing in especially “strong” / hard-to-reach places (reeds, snags, etc.). Models with an incredibly thin tip - an alarm (for the most careful bites) and options for fishing from a boat are also available.

Bottom fishing rods

For carp fishing, donks can be used at almost any time, although the best results with them can be achieved in the second half of summer. The convenience of using bottom gear lies primarily in the ability to “get” fish from almost any depth and in almost any body of water. In addition, the process of landing fish with a bottom is simplified due to the shock-absorbing effect of the reel.

Read: What to catch sterlet with

Donks and their equipment are quite easy to assemble independently and do not require expensive components. As a rule, the most expensive part of this gear is the “cool” spinning reel.

The gear configuration can be something like this:

rod – up to 3.5 m in length;
test - about 100 g;
fishing line – length up to 150 m;
leashes – 5–10 pcs. 5–7 cm long;
line thickness – 0.4 mm; leashes – 0.15–0.2 mm;
hooks No. 6–8 according to domestic classification;
coil – inertia-free, with a capacity of at least 4000; the presence of a baitrunner is desirable;
sinker flat or concave, weight up to 40 g.

Often the sinker is combined with the feeder. At the same time, a wide variety of forms and methods of feeding complementary foods are allowed. Let's look at them in more detail:

Spring

This tackle belongs to the non-sporting class, since it is a passive bait.

The design of the feeder is a spring, which is attached to the end of the main fishing line. In this case, the leashes are fixed not on the main line, but on the feeder.

You can very easily make a spring yourself, requiring a minimum of necessary components and tools. In fact, you don’t even need any instructions when making it - the structure of the equipment is clearly visible in the figure and its production is obvious.

A type of spring is a donut - this is a spring twisted into a ring and a combine - a conical spring.

When using any of these baits, it is filled with bait into which hooks from leashes are inserted.

Pacifier

And also simple bottom tackle. It is a small feeding container equipped with several leashes 5–7 cm long with hooks at the ends.

The nipple on one side is completely open and the washout of complementary foods from it is carried out quite quickly.

One of the main advantages of a pacifier is that it can be made from literally any available material that is nearby.

Makushatnik

One of the simple and quite effective bottom gear for carp fishing. In one form or another, such tackle is present in any fishing store, but, given the simplicity of its design, it can be made independently. As the bait, as the name suggests, cake or makha is used - the pressed remains of sunflower seeds from which the oil has been squeezed out. Structurally, the makushatnik is the simplest carp installation.

The makushatnik consists of a sinker to which a briquette of the top is attached and several hooks that are placed inside the briquette (strung on it or placed between the briquette and the weight).

Makukha is one of the best baits for carp, because it not only has an attractive smell that spreads over long distances. The cake itself is very high in calories and nutrition. In addition, it contains a large amount of protein.

Attention! Many fishermen overestimate the role of makushatniks in carp fishing. In reservoirs abounding in young fish and fry (for example, in those in which the fry are artificially introduced), this gear is completely ineffective

This has a fairly simple explanation: by the time the cautious large fish gets to the feeder, almost all of its filling will have already been completely eaten by various “little things” (fear and caution for which are unknown due to their too young age) that have swum to the tempting smell. Attempts to make the second, third, etc.

etc. casting the top will also not be successful, since the small fish will remain at the bait site for a long time and will again quickly eat all the bait. Therefore, it is recommended to use makushatniks only in reservoirs where there are practically no fry. Sometimes using more densely compressed corn helps

Attempts to make a second, third, etc. casting of the top will also not be successful, since the little things will remain at the feeding site for a long time, and again will quickly eat all the bait. Therefore, it is recommended to use makushatniks only in reservoirs where there are practically no fry. Sometimes using more densely compressed topcoat helps.

How to choose a “store” leadcore?

What should beginner carp anglers pay attention to, first of all, in the process of choosing a leadcore?

Proven carp brands

Not all that glitters is gold, therefore - not all that is called “leadcore” is actually such, although it is very cheap

Especially in terms of quality! If you are still a complete beginner, who only recently learned about the existence of this element of equipment, then we advise you to immediately pay attention to “carp companies”. Those

developing and necessarily testing their products specifically for SAFE carp fishing. The following companies are engaged in the production of high-quality leadcores (essentially, carp anglers for carp anglers): FOX, KORDA, KRYSTON, ESP, CLIMAX and TASKA.

Unwinding length

Over time, when you decide to jump to the next level (knowledge of all the intricacies of carp fishing), and dare to switch from ready-made (for installation) leadcores to “independent production”, we advise you to pay attention to the following nuances. As a rule, the assortment of fishing stores offers a fairly wide selection of reels with different unwinding lengths

And it would seem that small sizes are cheaper. But if we compare, for example, the cost of a 7-meter FOX coil and a 25-meter ESP coil (in terms of price per 1 meter), it turns out that the second (i.e., more voluminous) will be cheaper by as much as 30%! But you still need to practice knitting.

Although, good is always the enemy of the best, therefore, after the first/“training” large reel, the best option would be to buy several products from different manufacturers at once to understand which one will be convenient for you. Despite the fact that the principle of leadcore is the same, the materials of each company are different from each other, having their own exclusive advantages.

Correct color

From the point of view of a novice carp angler, all leadcores presented on the shelves of fishing stores are colored green, brown or gray. However, in reality, not everything is so simple. Because there are at least 18 main types of colors, which, in turn, can also be divided into several sub/varieties (combinations). Ideal, for example, for camouflage on muddy, sandy clay or gravel bottoms. And further... At the bottom with fresh or rotten silt (accordingly, on the same body of water in the spring you need one color of leadcore, and in late autumn - a completely different one). There can be a lot of variations.

Why should you pay attention to this? Because carp is the most cautious freshwater fish in the world! A smart conclusion: in order not to get confused with choosing the right color strictly for the fishing conditions on your reservoir (summer, spring or autumn), ask the experts on our forum (in its corresponding section)

Additional accessories

To make a loop yourself (and most importantly, relatively quickly and comfortably) you will definitely need -.

Carp montages

Hair rig

hair making process

An original method of carp mounting, in which the bait is attached not to the hook, but to a small leash extending from it. This type of equipment allows you to effectively catch wary fish that may be spooked by a metal hook inside the nozzle.

The production of such installation is carried out in 3 stages:

A monofilament or braided cord is inserted into the eye of the hook, retracted a short distance and tied with a small loop.
Then, the same fishing line is used to fix the hook.
The loop around the hook is tightened so that the additional leash is 3–5 cm long.

The advantage of this installation is that the bait located in the loop is swallowed by the carp, which takes the bait without fear, and with further absorption or when the fish, feeling the fishing line, tries to free itself from the bait, the fish is hooked.

Sliding equipment

Make it a rule, on every fishing trip, the first thing you do is...

It is the most catchy, due to the fact that the fish does not feel the resistance of the sinker when biting and can move away a considerable distance, which allows the fisherman to hook the prey more effectively.

The installation process is very simple and is carried out in the following sequence:

A sinking tube is put on the main line.
A swivel is attached to the tube, to which the sinker is attached.
Then a leash with a hook is attached to the main line.

Such equipment makes it easy to replace the sinker when necessary. When fishing in a significant current, to securely fix the bait in one place, you should use a heavy, flat-shaped lead sinker.

Safety clip

This method of installing carp gear allows the fish to easily free themselves from the sinker or feeder when the main line breaks. The use of this installation in a section of a reservoir with a snagged bottom does not protect the tackle from possible snags. To minimize this probability, it is necessary to use special offset hooks in such places.

Installation of the safety clip is carried out in the following order:

A sinking tube about 30 cm long is installed on the main fishing line.
The line is passed through the cone-shaped coupling and pressed into the tube.
A swivel and a cone coupling are installed on the clip.
Place the swivel on the end of the fishing line.
Thread the swivel into the clip.
Install a leash with a hook on the swivel.

The equipment is ready!

Helicopter

A very interesting and catchy type of carp rig. Particularly good results can be obtained by using this equipment in the current.

This installation is carried out as follows:

A monofilament 70–80 cm long is tied on one side into a loop into which a swivel with a carabiner is installed.
A tube is installed on the fishing line.
On the other side, a stopper in the form of a bead is placed on the fishing line.
A leash with a hook, equipped with a swivel, is installed on the tube so that the entire structure rotates freely around the main fishing line.
A sinker is attached to the carabiner, which is attached to the bottom of the fishing line.

This carp rig allows you to cast the bait over a long distance due to the fact that the sinker is in front of the equipment when casting.

Inline

This equipment allows you to successfully catch carp both with conventional tackle with a sinker and using a feeder feeder. The high catchability of this rig is explained by the fact that the fish do not immediately feel the resistance of the sinker or feeder.

The carp calmly swallows the hook with bait, and when trying to move away from the location of the tackle, a self-hooking occurs.

Installation of this equipment is carried out in the following sequence:

A leash 40 cm long is made from monofilament with a diameter of 0.5 - 0.7 mm, on one side of which a loop is tied for installation on the main fishing line. On the other side, a swivel with a carabiner is attached.
A sinker with two eyes is attached to a carabiner.
A leash with a hook is attached to the other ring of the sinker. The length of the leash is 20 cm.
In order to increase the number of effective bites on this tackle, the hook is used with a hair rig.

A significant disadvantage of this installation is the low flight characteristics of this gear.

Long casts when fishing for carp

In carp fishing, it is not always necessary to cast the tackle over the horizon, since the fish often wanders under the shore. However, the ability to fish at long distances is considered one of the main skills of modern carp anglers, which allows them to use all possible chances to catch fish. If the carp is located far from the shore, the fisherman must be able to deliver bait to it.

In this article we will talk about the techniques and equipment that are necessary for fishing at long distances. For different fishermen, with different goals, this distance varies from 50 to 200 m.

Rod

The most optimal for carp fishing is considered to be a rod 3.5-4 m long with a cast of 1-1.5 kg. To make long casts, the rod tip must work well, having a fast recovery speed. If you have a medium action rod, you can make long casts with it, but you will have to apply force more slowly (we will write about this below).

The number of rings and the distance between them play an important, if not the main role. If there are a lot of rings, there will be strong vibration and the casting distance will be reduced. If there is a drawback, loops form on the fishing line that sticks to the rod, which also reduces the distance.

Another problem is with the hinges. They can wrap around the legs of the guides and cause tangling or breakage of the line (with very powerful casting).

The size of the rings should be determined based on their location on the fishing rod, their diameter, and the line coming off the reel. A smooth, pointed cone should point towards the tip of the rod. In other words, the diameter of the rings should be at least 4 cm. Make sure that they are far from the reel so that the fishing line flying off it has time to straighten and does not reach the rings. The rings attached to the tip of the rod must have a diameter of 12-16 mm in order to freely pass the connection between the main line and the shock leader. Don't neglect these tips.

Coil

Due to their size, most carp reels can be used for long casting. When choosing a reel, pay attention to the maximum length of the line that can be accommodated, the weight and diameter of the spool. When the line comes off the reel, the gap between the remaining line and the side of the spool should be small, otherwise additional vibration will be created and the casting distance will decrease.

Also, the reel should be light, comfortable and durable.

fishing line

Taking into account the conditions of the reservoir, the likelihood of snags, algae, etc., the main fishing line of the fishing rod must be strong and can withstand landing fish of the expected size. Usually use high-quality fishing line 5-8 kg. As an exception, fishing in places where the likelihood of hooks is minimal. In such cases, a fishing line with a tensile load of 4-5 kg will be sufficient.

Some carp anglers use braided line when casting long distances, due to its small diameter and high strength.

Line lubricant

To increase casting distance, a special lubricant is often applied to the fishing line. It reduces vibration and increases range. After several hours of the fishing line being in the water, it needs to be re-lubricated, since the lubricant is washed off in the water.

Shock leader

The shock leader is an important part of the equipment, especially when achieving maximum casting distance. Care must be taken to use systems that will increase the reliability of the equipment. Otherwise, the line may not withstand the tension and break. The optimal shock leader load ranges from 3.6 to 4.5 kg per 1 ounce of sinker weight. For example, to use a 3 oz (85 g) sinker, we would need a 10-13 kg shock leader.

To connect the shock leader to the main line, you can use a double grinder, gluing it for greater reliability.

Sinker

The most important thing about a sinker is its weight and size. With a sinker that is too light, you will not create the necessary tension in the rod and will not be able to make a good long cast. If it is too heavy, you will lose casting power and may also break the fishing rod.

The size of the sinker is also important. Despite the good characteristics of a short and blunt sinker as a self-hook, it does not have the necessary aerodynamic properties. Therefore, such a load cannot be thrown far, unlike oblong-shaped sinkers.

Modern sinkers are either sliding or clip-on. We also need to talk about another important element - the method of attaching the sinker. In the case of a sliding sinker, when casting, the carabiner is pressed into the protrusion of the fasteners, and the equipment moves behind the sinker. At the same time, the protrusion of the sinker begins to deviate, increasing air resistance and reducing the distance. Therefore, this type of sinker is considered unsuitable. The same applies to other weights - clip-on ones.

The most optimal method of attaching a sinker is considered to be a “helicopter”. When casting, the sinker is the main object. The rig is attached behind the sinker, and it does not affect its flight path in any way. Using this fastening method, you need to make sure that the likelihood of snags on the equipment is minimal. In other words, it should be easy to remove and pass through the shock leader assembly without obstruction.

Check the tackle several times and make sure that it detaches freely from the sinker.

Casting technique and mechanics

With the help of a sinker, inertia is created. You move the rod forward and thereby force it to bend back. When a certain point is reached, the rod tip straightens and moves forward, causing a whip-like motion that helps push the load forward. It doesn't matter how stiff your carp rod is, as they all have imperfect action and can break if overexerted.

When moving the rod forward, you need to control the speed and strength; they should be slow. If you hear a whipping or whistling sound when casting, it means you are in a hurry.

If you cannot reach the required casting distance, then slow down the forward swing of the rod. Under no circumstances should you try to cast harder. Greater efforts only need to be exerted at extreme distances, but even this must be controlled. If you apply force at the wrong time or cast too sharply, the rod can easily break.

Safety laws

So, let’s repeat the basic laws of safety and reliability of your gear:

The size of the sinker must match the fishing rod;
The shock leader must match the size of the sinker;
The main line must support the fish of expected weight;
The rig or sinker should be easy to release from the shock leader.

Good luck with your catch!

Types of sinkers

Sinkers for carp fishing come in a variety of varieties.

They differ:

Material.
Fastening.
Form.
Weight.
Size.

The most important things anglers note are the shape and weight, which are responsible for the placement of the equipment in the water, as well as for the casting distance.

Weights can be of different sizes, ranging from 1 gram to 300. Light elements are used for float specimens.

As for the shape, it can also be different and its choice must be approached with great care, because the element allows you to increase the chances of finding large fish.

The weights are like this:

Round. In appearance they are no different from balls. They “fly” well, and when biting they offer minimal resistance. Such products are good to use in strong winds or on a river where there is a current. Pear-shaped. These weights have a slightly flattened shape. This gives them the opportunity to stay well at the bottom. The product has one unpleasant nuance, which is increased resistance, which frightens the fish. Elongated or elongated. Many fishermen know them under the names “long castes”, “torpedoes”, “sticks”, “bullets” and the like. Due to its streamlined shape, it shows good efficiency when casting at distances over 100 meters. Elements in the form of a cube

If you don't take into account the shape, they work exactly the same as round elements. Frame. Looks like a rectangular flat frame

It is not uncommon for manufacturers to equip a part with spikes, which allows it to be well fixed to the bottom. When fishing, the weight is not used so often because it has poor flight. Sterile. The sinker shows good results when you need to fish at medium distances. In addition, it must be said that the product is not suitable for bodies of water where there is a current. Thanks to its shape, it makes it possible to quickly raise the equipment during fishing, as well as when recasting. This allows you to “fly over” areas where there are thickets or snags.

Mounting options

Of course, the weight of the sinker plays an important role, but much attention is also paid to the type of attachment. It could be:

It could be:

Inline. This means a fastening in which there is a through hole through which the fishing line is threaded. In recent years, this type has proven itself to be the best, allowing the fish to not drag the equipment and weights along with it in the event of a break.
Lateral. The product is attached to the side from the main line.

As for inlines, they are extremely easy to install. To use them, you do not need to purchase additional elastic bands, cambrics, etc. Thanks to the presented sinkers, it is possible to hook even the most cautious fish. Some fishermen refuse such a sinker for carp fishing because it cannot be used on a reservoir with a muddy bottom, and also because the casting range is not the best.

If we talk about side weights, it is worth noting that with the help of these you can cast further and more accurately. In addition, the element allows the fish to hook itself and can be used on silty bottoms. This weight has some disadvantages, and they include snags and tangling of the fishing line.

How to choose the right carp sinkers

Let's look at the basic rules for choosing a load for carp fishing based on the characteristics of the gear and fishing conditions.

To avoid premature wear of your rod, you need to follow a simple rule: the weight of the load should not exceed the upper limit of the test range by more than half an ounce (that is, 14-15 g). For example, when fishing with a rod with a test weight of up to 80 g, you should not use sinkers heavier than 95 g.

If it’s windy on a fishing day, the rig will be blown around a lot during casting. To reduce the influence of wind to a minimum, you need to increase the weight of the sinker (you can also reduce the diameter of the fishing line).

As already mentioned, the best option for fishing in overgrown reservoirs and among snags is arrow-shaped sinkers . Spherical and cubic weights are the worst suited for fishing in such conditions; they should not be used at all in such situations.

When fishing on a silty bottom, you must either use flat weights with a large area , or reduce the weight of the weights so that they do not fall through.

In currents, you need to use either heavier weights or flat models . A flat, fairly heavy load is guaranteed not to be carried away by the current. Also, when fishing in such conditions, lugs will be very useful.

View

The shape of the load also plays a big role. Let's look at the most famous ones.

This sinker distributes the center of gravity to the front. Ideal for long casts.

Bullet

Similar to long cast, but can be used on muddy surfaces. With it, you can also “aim” to get to the right place, despite the distance.

Horizon

It looks a lot like a bullet, but has edges. Because of this, it is very popular among carp fishermen. Firstly, it is easy to throw the sinker, since the center of gravity is in the front. Secondly, it will not slide along the bottom due to the edges. Especially where there is sloping terrain.

Pear

This is a standard type pear. Here you can take any form. They are not used for long distances. They are great for close to medium distances. Attaches to the bottom easily. In addition, it does not fall into the mud.

Flat carp sinkers have similar parameters.

Tri Lobe and Elevator

Suitable for the bottom, where there are a lot of snags, grass and the like. They easily pass between obstacles without getting caught on them and without wearing out the equipment. The elevator loses in many directions: when working on silt, when entering the glider and when casting.

Spiked sinkers

If you choose a place with a fast current, then spiked weights are needed. This has already been written above. An excellent solution would be flu and frame.

Which is better to choose? It depends on the cast. The flu can be cast, but the frame cannot.

You can make a carp feeder out of flu. Just cover her with complementary foods.

What other sinkers are there?

Fishermen who have repeatedly fished for carp know that marker sinkers are also used. However, the presented products do not need to be installed on equipment, because they are used for bottom research. That is why the shape of the products is quite strange, somewhat reminiscent of a mace. Thanks to all the convexities, it is possible to better understand the features of the relief, which plays a big role. After all, the fisherman must know where there are irregularities, shells, debris and the like.

Read Fleece suit for fishing

Feeder weights are something that people who fish for carp also use. Such products are effective in the spring, when it is necessary to take care of good bait. In addition, thanks to such products, self-hooking of carp is much more common.

It must be said that today on sale there are sinkers with a capsule containing a flavoring. When it gets into the water, it gradually dissolves, beginning to attract fish, which are interested in where the pleasant aroma comes from. Such sinkers have a porous surface. An attractant can be applied to it, which lures carp.

In fact, it is impossible to describe all the moments of weights, because there are so many of them. You need to try and understand what works best.

How to choose a hook for carp fishing?

So let's get started. The most important parameters of virtually any fishing hook (i.e., not just carp ones) are: sharpness (stings), shape of the structure, size, as well as the thickness of the wire from which it is (actually) made. Now let’s define the terms that are used to refer to the elements of the hook.

What are fishhooks made of?

From the image - diagram we see what the sting (point), fore-end (shank), ear (eye), beard (barb) and prying (bend) are. And we can figure it out further. To select the best characteristics for strictly defined methods of carp fishing, such parameters as “hook width” (gap), “total forearm length” and wire thickness are important. More in-depth/specific characteristics are “bite shape/height” and “front length” (where the sting is).

Depending on the shape (appearance), fishing (carp) hooks are divided into the following groups:

with a shortened, “medium” or extended forearm;
with straight or curved forearm;
with a straight sting or “turned” towards the fore-end (slightly curved inward);
with a sting in the same plane as the fore-end (classic version);
with a tip bent to the side (“double-bent” curved in two planes at once / “single-bent” curved in only one plane) - see photo below;
with a straight ear (the very first “simple” models);
with a bent ear: either towards the sting, or away from the sting (i.e. outwards).

Fishing hooks: “single-bend” and “double-bend” It is definitely worth noting that these are only “conditionally” – the main types of hooks, since most modern manufacturers combine designs of individual hook elements. Thus, products are designed that are ideally suited to a wide variety of carp fishing methods. There are many variations!

However, despite the huge assortment, most carp anglers (over time) have established their favorite models (to which all world brands now adapt). A separate world is carp fishing, where “dangerous” (not (!) carp) hooks are prohibited, which contradict the principle: “if you catch a healthy fish, release the unharmed fish.”

Fishing wisdom - how to save money?

You may have already noticed that the forest capacity of carp reels is quite large. Moreover, the steeper the model, the higher this characteristic will be - 300, 450 and even more than 500 meters. Of course, out of deep respect for the carp, the spool can be filled completely - exclusively with branded fishing line. However, the fish will not be offended by us if we save our budget a little using a cunning trick called “backing”.

Read How to catch crab and choose bait

What it is? - you ask. In simple words, backing is a kind of “backing” / “lining” located at the base of the spool, directly under the main line. Some fishermen “construct” it from thick, harsh threads, others from electrical tape, but most use old fishing line left over from last year’s season, or buy cheap ones.

“Store” backing for SHIMANO reels

Classification

The entire variety of fishing sinkers can be classified into two categories:

Stationary sinkers are fixed in a stationary position on the main fishing line of the fishing tackle. Their appearance is associated with the shape of a ball. Stationary models have weight in accordance with the accepted standardization, which is presented in special tables.
Sliding weights move freely along the fishing line. The most common form is olive. On the fishing line, the weights can be separated from each other either by rubber stoppers or by beads.

The selection of these elements takes place in full compliance with the weight of the float, fishing conditions and the bait on the hook. It is more advisable to choose high-quality sinkers to eliminate possible troubles. Thus, poor quality models may have sharp cuts that damage the fishing line at the time of attachment. However, this can be corrected by sanding down the rough edges.

To securely fix the sinker to the fishing line, you will need pliers. Just first you need to thread the fishing thread through the slot, and then with a little effort crimp the ring. If you clamp tightly, there is a high probability of damage to the fishing line. The optimal distance between the hook and the first sinker should be at least 20 cm.

To store cargo, a special plastic container is used with certain sections that have weight restrictions.

As a rule, all fishing sinkers are metallic in color. However, today analogs are produced that are painted to resemble natural stones and the bottom surface. This is an excellent camouflage option.