Carp on a fly!

[stevenbhow]

For those of you who aren't aware, it is perfectly legal to target wild carp in Japan. A friend of mine caught one the other day that was pushing 10 kilos or 20 pounds. This was on a fly rod. It took about 40 minutes to land. I had one about the same size break me off. As for techniques, with a fly rod use a black wooley bugger, any bonefish pattern, or a small clouser. The fly pretty much has to be right in front of their face before they'll hit though. Watch for them to suck the fly in, set the hook, and hold on. They hit like a large mouth and run like a steelhead. I recomend at least an 8 weight and a reel with a strong drag. They can be a little tippet shy, so flurocarbon is probably a better choice than monofiliment. 5 X is about the lowest I'd go though. Also, depending on where you are fishing snakeheads, trout, and other assorted fish are sometimes fun extras.

Good luck and have fun.

Steve

[Fisherkingnigel]

I've often heard that the pan or the bread fly is a killer for them. Thanks for that information Steven.....now I wonder how many fly fishermen we have here in Japan that'll actually target those big monster carp. I myself will be trying this summer when I go to the inlaws house. Most of the carp though are quite small and are only about 15-20 cm long.

Oh one thing I would like to mention. Some rivers do have a service charge for using them. Don't worry though because they have guys in the morning that come along on their bicycles and will kindly ask for the money.

Cheers,

Nigelman

[Chucky]

Yes, in Japan if they caught you fishing without paying, all you have to do is pay up the normal fee. You will not get a fine. Nor will your gear be confisicated.

[the_scotsman]

it's becoming increasingly popular in britain to catch carp on the fly, mostly usin deer hair balls to imitate dog biscuits which are loose fed, or wormy stuff and egg patterns i'll be after them this coming summer!