CARP AS SPORTFISH
INTRODUCTION:
Australia is blessed to have lots of fish and loads of fishermen. Reasons for fishing varies from doing it for a feed, doing it just for fun or a form of relaxation and last but not least, doing it as a sport. The styles of fishing we want to introduce and grow in Australia are predominantly used for sport and relaxation purposes and to a much lesser extend as a way to put food on the table. It is most definitely not used as a tool to kill the fish upon which most of the sport is based on, we have already listed a number of actions we support which will be many times more effective at reducing excessive carp biomass. Forcing people to kill carp and demonising those who don't, have a near Zero effect on carp numbers but a massively negative effect on the number of people who would love to take up the sport for the reasons already mentioned. Many complain that carp is only a drain on the economy, yet when it can make a substantial social and economic contribution it gets denied that opportunity. Fishing for carp as a SPORT is very similar to most other SPORTS as it has etiquette and a set of rules that define the sport and appeal to those who want to participate in it. We accept that these styles of fishing are not to everybody's liking but neither are the ones currently on offer. Catch and Release is one of the most prominent parts of Sport fishing and doing away or changing outdated and totally ineffective laws is crucial to grow the sport. The reality is that those who want to kill them will continue to do so irrespective of whether there are legislation for it or not.
We call on people in legislative positions to make the necessary changes or to at least discuss various options with us. The result can ONLY have positive outcomes for native fish numbers, anglers and also very importantly those shops and country communities who will without doubt benefit tremendously from the increase in visitors (local and international).
Anglers who support the Koi herpes virus and Kill all carp legislation should consider if it is fair to deny us, your fellow anglers who are as passionate about our sport as you are about yours, the basic rights you enjoy as anglers. Reading through this whole document you should realise that what we are trying to achieve is to significantly reduce carp biomass and increase native fish numbers, we also want to make a positive contribution to the community and the economy. Everybody does not necessarily want to catch trout or use artificial lures, there are a part of the population who enjoy our styles of fishing and sometimes it is determined not just by people’s preference but also their financial or physical ability or disability.
HEALTH BENEFITS OF FISHING INCLUDING MENTAL HEALTH:
***MUST READ***: Final Report of the Social and Community Benefits of Angling Project
http://www.resources.anglingresearch.org.uk/sites/resources.anglingresearch.org.uk/files/Substance_AnglingReport_Section2_WellBeing.pdf
The Benefits of Angling
Angling provides excellent opportunities for therapy, rehabilitation and recreation both in later life and for people with a disability or special need. Angling provides therapeutic benefits to those people who are struggling with long-term illness or attempting to rehabilitate back to normal life following a traumatic incident. It can also be an extremely beneficial and therapeutic activity for people with mental illness or behavioural disorders. It incorporates a range of physical activity levels and so encourages activity amongst the inactive.
Angling incorporates proven therapeutic engagement and contact with 'blue-green space' and consequently helps maintain positive mental health, provides stress relief and can support programmes for people with mental illness. It provides a rich social world that facilitates the relationship building, connection and participation in social life essential to securing health and wellbeing.
The role that environmental conditions and chance can play in catching a fish or not, can effectively 'level the playing field' making angling one of the few sports where individuals with very different characteristics and abilities can compete on similar terms against each other.
Read more - http://www.albrightontrust.org.uk/angling_moat/
CARP AFTER COMBAT
“Carp fishing allows us at Carp after Combat the opportunity to enhance Veterans physical and mental well-being, and giving something back to those who have given their all for us, is something I feel passionately about….” Carp After Combat Chairman, Dave Coates
http://www.careaftercombat.org/how-we-help/carp-after-combat2/
https://www.facebook.com/carpaftercombat/
Article: Thumbs up for fishing Therapy
http://www.mentalhealthy.co.uk/news/386-thumbs-up-for-fishing-therapy.html
SURVEYS:
UK The National Angling Survey 2012 Survey Report:
This was a very large survey with 29000 people taking part. The results are very interesting and serve as proof how popular coarse fishing as a Sport is compared to other styles including Fly and Artificial lure fishing (Game fishing)
http://www.resources.anglingresearch.org.uk/sites/resources.anglingresearch.org.uk/files/National_Angling_Survey_Report_2012.pdf
INTERESTING READING:
Coarse fishing in the ACT: http://www.smh.com.au/federal-politics/carp-articles-miss-the-real-angle-20121220-2bppu.html
FRESHWATER FISHING AS A SPORT
This gives a fairly comprehensive description of potentially five new Freshwater fishing styles and how they will benefit Australia. Working with the relative Government Departments and peak angling bodies is very important to give the sport a strong foundation from where it can grow. The people we hope to attract to the sport are those who treat their surrounding fauna and flora with respect, our rules that govern the sport and venues will reflect this very important part. Our goal is to offer individuals and groups (family and friends) sport fishing styles which are very productive, enjoyable and easy to take up which they can participate in for 24hours of the day, 365 days of the year. These styles are generally not used for subsistence fishing, these are sport fishing styles and the idea is to catch as many or big fish as you can and then to return them so they can grow bigger to fight another day. Legislation in Australia sometimes does not allow you to return fish when you do not want to kill them and we will work with the relevant authorities on a legislation that will help grow the sport and as a result deliver a substantial increase in the social and economic contribution of the species.
SOCIAL BENEFITS:
The social benefits of increased access to freshwater fishing is tremendous. Around the world there are millions of anglers who on a regular basis participate in Conventional fishing, Match (Pole, float, feeder methods) and Specimen Carp angling. The variety makes the sport very accessible for men and woman from the very young to the very old. Disabled or wheelchair bound participants can not only enjoy it socially but can in many cases compete on even footing with their able-bodied counterparts.
Some of the fishing styles we want to introduce does not require the angler to man his rod all the time and this allows them the freedom to sit back and relax or to socialise with family and friends whilst waiting for a bite. My background as competitive angler and personal experience is that for many families this time spent together is not only enjoyable but also important family bonding time. Kids love these trips, it gets them out of the cities and into nature, they take friends with or make new ones, it is interesting, exciting and enjoyable. The exposure expands their knowledge and teach them skills they would otherwise not have.
The variety of rigs and almost endless combinations of flavours, bait and presentation makes it also very appealing to competitive anglers resulting in numerous social and league clubs being formed. These clubs not only bring likeminded people together but also those from different social and cultural backgrounds. These styles of fishing originated in countries where there are sometimes more bad than good weather, the fishing and camping equipment caters for this and participation numbers remain high throughout the year.
Fishing competitions are often used by charity groups or clubs to raise money for all sorts of causes and in that way make a positive contribution to society. These events are usually well supported and therefor very successful.
SOCIAL INTERNATIONAL
Many countries around the world have National Match and Specimen Carp fishing teams who represent them at a number of international competitions including World Championships every year. It will be a substantial boost for the sport if the Sports Council of Australian approve these styles of fishing as National sports. Anglers will have the opportunity to compete for the honour to represent our country on the international stage. It will also offer us the opportunity to host some of these events.
Australia is blessed to have lots of fish and loads of fishermen. Reasons for fishing varies from doing it for a feed, doing it just for fun or a form of relaxation and last but not least, doing it as a sport. The styles of fishing we want to introduce and grow in Australia are predominantly used for sport and relaxation purposes and to a much lesser extend as a way to put food on the table. It is most definitely not used as a tool to kill the fish upon which most of the sport is based on, we have already listed a number of actions we support which will be many times more effective at reducing excessive carp biomass. Forcing people to kill carp and demonising those who don't, have a near Zero effect on carp numbers but a massively negative effect on the number of people who would love to take up the sport for the reasons already mentioned. Many complain that carp is only a drain on the economy, yet when it can make a substantial social and economic contribution it gets denied that opportunity. Fishing for carp as a SPORT is very similar to most other SPORTS as it has etiquette and a set of rules that define the sport and appeal to those who want to participate in it. We accept that these styles of fishing are not to everybody's liking but neither are the ones currently on offer. Catch and Release is one of the most prominent parts of Sport fishing and doing away or changing outdated and totally ineffective laws is crucial to grow the sport. The reality is that those who want to kill them will continue to do so irrespective of whether there are legislation for it or not.
We call on people in legislative positions to make the necessary changes or to at least discuss various options with us. The result can ONLY have positive outcomes for native fish numbers, anglers and also very importantly those shops and country communities who will without doubt benefit tremendously from the increase in visitors (local and international).
Anglers who support the Koi herpes virus and Kill all carp legislation should consider if it is fair to deny us, your fellow anglers who are as passionate about our sport as you are about yours, the basic rights you enjoy as anglers. Reading through this whole document you should realise that what we are trying to achieve is to significantly reduce carp biomass and increase native fish numbers, we also want to make a positive contribution to the community and the economy. Everybody does not necessarily want to catch trout or use artificial lures, there are a part of the population who enjoy our styles of fishing and sometimes it is determined not just by people’s preference but also their financial or physical ability or disability.
HEALTH BENEFITS OF FISHING INCLUDING MENTAL HEALTH:
***MUST READ***: Final Report of the Social and Community Benefits of Angling Project
http://www.resources.anglingresearch.org.uk/sites/resources.anglingresearch.org.uk/files/Substance_AnglingReport_Section2_WellBeing.pdf
The Benefits of Angling
Angling provides excellent opportunities for therapy, rehabilitation and recreation both in later life and for people with a disability or special need. Angling provides therapeutic benefits to those people who are struggling with long-term illness or attempting to rehabilitate back to normal life following a traumatic incident. It can also be an extremely beneficial and therapeutic activity for people with mental illness or behavioural disorders. It incorporates a range of physical activity levels and so encourages activity amongst the inactive.
Angling incorporates proven therapeutic engagement and contact with 'blue-green space' and consequently helps maintain positive mental health, provides stress relief and can support programmes for people with mental illness. It provides a rich social world that facilitates the relationship building, connection and participation in social life essential to securing health and wellbeing.
The role that environmental conditions and chance can play in catching a fish or not, can effectively 'level the playing field' making angling one of the few sports where individuals with very different characteristics and abilities can compete on similar terms against each other.
Read more - http://www.albrightontrust.org.uk/angling_moat/
CARP AFTER COMBAT
“Carp fishing allows us at Carp after Combat the opportunity to enhance Veterans physical and mental well-being, and giving something back to those who have given their all for us, is something I feel passionately about….” Carp After Combat Chairman, Dave Coates
http://www.careaftercombat.org/how-we-help/carp-after-combat2/
https://www.facebook.com/carpaftercombat/
Article: Thumbs up for fishing Therapy
http://www.mentalhealthy.co.uk/news/386-thumbs-up-for-fishing-therapy.html
SURVEYS:
UK The National Angling Survey 2012 Survey Report:
This was a very large survey with 29000 people taking part. The results are very interesting and serve as proof how popular coarse fishing as a Sport is compared to other styles including Fly and Artificial lure fishing (Game fishing)
http://www.resources.anglingresearch.org.uk/sites/resources.anglingresearch.org.uk/files/National_Angling_Survey_Report_2012.pdf
INTERESTING READING:
Coarse fishing in the ACT: http://www.smh.com.au/federal-politics/carp-articles-miss-the-real-angle-20121220-2bppu.html
FRESHWATER FISHING AS A SPORT
This gives a fairly comprehensive description of potentially five new Freshwater fishing styles and how they will benefit Australia. Working with the relative Government Departments and peak angling bodies is very important to give the sport a strong foundation from where it can grow. The people we hope to attract to the sport are those who treat their surrounding fauna and flora with respect, our rules that govern the sport and venues will reflect this very important part. Our goal is to offer individuals and groups (family and friends) sport fishing styles which are very productive, enjoyable and easy to take up which they can participate in for 24hours of the day, 365 days of the year. These styles are generally not used for subsistence fishing, these are sport fishing styles and the idea is to catch as many or big fish as you can and then to return them so they can grow bigger to fight another day. Legislation in Australia sometimes does not allow you to return fish when you do not want to kill them and we will work with the relevant authorities on a legislation that will help grow the sport and as a result deliver a substantial increase in the social and economic contribution of the species.
SOCIAL BENEFITS:
The social benefits of increased access to freshwater fishing is tremendous. Around the world there are millions of anglers who on a regular basis participate in Conventional fishing, Match (Pole, float, feeder methods) and Specimen Carp angling. The variety makes the sport very accessible for men and woman from the very young to the very old. Disabled or wheelchair bound participants can not only enjoy it socially but can in many cases compete on even footing with their able-bodied counterparts.
Some of the fishing styles we want to introduce does not require the angler to man his rod all the time and this allows them the freedom to sit back and relax or to socialise with family and friends whilst waiting for a bite. My background as competitive angler and personal experience is that for many families this time spent together is not only enjoyable but also important family bonding time. Kids love these trips, it gets them out of the cities and into nature, they take friends with or make new ones, it is interesting, exciting and enjoyable. The exposure expands their knowledge and teach them skills they would otherwise not have.
The variety of rigs and almost endless combinations of flavours, bait and presentation makes it also very appealing to competitive anglers resulting in numerous social and league clubs being formed. These clubs not only bring likeminded people together but also those from different social and cultural backgrounds. These styles of fishing originated in countries where there are sometimes more bad than good weather, the fishing and camping equipment caters for this and participation numbers remain high throughout the year.
Fishing competitions are often used by charity groups or clubs to raise money for all sorts of causes and in that way make a positive contribution to society. These events are usually well supported and therefor very successful.
SOCIAL INTERNATIONAL
Many countries around the world have National Match and Specimen Carp fishing teams who represent them at a number of international competitions including World Championships every year. It will be a substantial boost for the sport if the Sports Council of Australian approve these styles of fishing as National sports. Anglers will have the opportunity to compete for the honour to represent our country on the international stage. It will also offer us the opportunity to host some of these events.
CULTURAL:
For several hundred thousand immigrants these styles of fishing actually is part of their culture and something many of them would love to continue within Australia. It not only apply to the people already living here but also those visiting. Regulations, restrictions, a lack of venues, the cost of importing equipment and in some cases abuse have forces most to give up the sport, some however still participate and I am sure many more will join if the opportunity arise.
Millions of people from Europe call Australia home. Europe is also the origin of Pole, Waggler, Feeder and Specimen Carp fishing. This is a favourite pastime for many and a sport for millions of anglers.
There also are approximately 145000 South Africans living in Australia, the Conventional and Specimen Carp fishing styles are extremely popular amongst people from this region.
For several hundred thousand immigrants these styles of fishing actually is part of their culture and something many of them would love to continue within Australia. It not only apply to the people already living here but also those visiting. Regulations, restrictions, a lack of venues, the cost of importing equipment and in some cases abuse have forces most to give up the sport, some however still participate and I am sure many more will join if the opportunity arise.
Millions of people from Europe call Australia home. Europe is also the origin of Pole, Waggler, Feeder and Specimen Carp fishing. This is a favourite pastime for many and a sport for millions of anglers.
There also are approximately 145000 South Africans living in Australia, the Conventional and Specimen Carp fishing styles are extremely popular amongst people from this region.
ECONOMIC BENEFITS:
Australia is sitting on a massive resource that should be managed to make and not cost tax payers money. The mentioned styles of fishing have millions of active participants around the world and is worth billions of dollars. Australia already have a fairly big fishing tackle industry but have the opportunity to be substantially bigger. Managing the sport and making venues available will open the door for Australians to take up 5 new styles of fishing. With it comes many new brands and investors that will ultimately lead to more money and jobs in the sector. The Brands that already do business in Australia will be very keen to expand their range because as they will be well aware of the financial potential and would not want to miss out.
Australia is sitting on a massive resource that should be managed to make and not cost tax payers money. The mentioned styles of fishing have millions of active participants around the world and is worth billions of dollars. Australia already have a fairly big fishing tackle industry but have the opportunity to be substantially bigger. Managing the sport and making venues available will open the door for Australians to take up 5 new styles of fishing. With it comes many new brands and investors that will ultimately lead to more money and jobs in the sector. The Brands that already do business in Australia will be very keen to expand their range because as they will be well aware of the financial potential and would not want to miss out.
People will be astonish to see the enormous amount of fishing and camping gear that is unique to these different styles of fishing. This offer existing businesses the opportunity to expand and others to start a new venture. Anglers have a seemingly endless appetite for new tackle and manufacturers therefor invest a lot of money to keep up with the demand and to remain relevant in the race. The products range from basic tackle to high-tech equipment like drones and remote control boats equipped with a wireless fish finder and GPS that makes it possible for the angler to deliver his bait with pinpoint accuracy.
Bait companies are constantly in competition with each other and employ scientist, other specialists and high profile anglers to help design and market new products. These companies produce thousands of tons of bait every year and there is no reason why we can’t have our own bait making industry here in Australia.
As mentioned before, these styles are also very effective to target native species and Aquaculture businesses will benefit from ongoing breeding and stocking programs.
Having more people spending more time in the outdoors will definitely have a positive effect on the motor and caravan industry. Having a practical vehicle is important, this means it will have to be spacious enough for you, your family and all the gear, but also in some cases need to be capable enough to handle the terrain or tow a caravan / camper.
Anglers usually start off very basic but it doesn’t take long before they invest in a couple of items to make their new passion more enjoyable and comfortable. This includes camping gear and can be anything from a better tent to a more comfortable and practical caravan or camper trailer.
There is NO reason why we can’t have flourishing sport fishing styles for both carp and native fish. Local economies, especially those in rural areas will benefit tremendously from catering for both as it will draw people from both groups instead of just the one….common sense really. To achieve this we however must increase native fish numbers by addressing those factors that in the first place prevent them from breeding and secondly kill millions of young ones when they move down stream. (See Coldwater pollution and Damming)
Fishing venues and access (or lack of) to them differ from state to state. Local economies also stand to benefit from the costs involved in the development of these venues. Some may require no or very little work whereas other more specialised venues will need substantial investment to attract their target market like international tourists or to make it more accessible for disabled anglers.
The following is a list of some of these expenses which will create numerous temporary and permanent jobs:
Building of new dams or upgrading of existing ones
Stocking and relocation of fish including Native species
Installation of fishing platforms to fish from
Construction of campsites on the water’s edge for specimen and Conventional anglers, some with an electrical point.
Ablution facilities
Building of a Clubhouse, outbuildings and parking.
Fencing with controlled access points
Maintenance and repair
Government, investors, landowners, shops and other stakeholders will benefit from of the following income streams:
Membership fees payable to Club and or governing body
Fishing licenses
Entrance fee
Bait and tackle sales
Accommodation or camping fee
Renting out of equipment
Income generated from facilities on the premises like a Restaurant, pub and tackle shop.
Fishing lessons
Fishing tours
Tourism in general
Media
Having FIVE new styles of fishing means that there will be more than enough things to sell, advertise and talk about. Overseas there are so many companies fiercely competing for market share and there is no better way to get their message across than making use of magazines, newspaper, television and radio.
Bait companies are constantly in competition with each other and employ scientist, other specialists and high profile anglers to help design and market new products. These companies produce thousands of tons of bait every year and there is no reason why we can’t have our own bait making industry here in Australia.
As mentioned before, these styles are also very effective to target native species and Aquaculture businesses will benefit from ongoing breeding and stocking programs.
Having more people spending more time in the outdoors will definitely have a positive effect on the motor and caravan industry. Having a practical vehicle is important, this means it will have to be spacious enough for you, your family and all the gear, but also in some cases need to be capable enough to handle the terrain or tow a caravan / camper.
Anglers usually start off very basic but it doesn’t take long before they invest in a couple of items to make their new passion more enjoyable and comfortable. This includes camping gear and can be anything from a better tent to a more comfortable and practical caravan or camper trailer.
There is NO reason why we can’t have flourishing sport fishing styles for both carp and native fish. Local economies, especially those in rural areas will benefit tremendously from catering for both as it will draw people from both groups instead of just the one….common sense really. To achieve this we however must increase native fish numbers by addressing those factors that in the first place prevent them from breeding and secondly kill millions of young ones when they move down stream. (See Coldwater pollution and Damming)
Fishing venues and access (or lack of) to them differ from state to state. Local economies also stand to benefit from the costs involved in the development of these venues. Some may require no or very little work whereas other more specialised venues will need substantial investment to attract their target market like international tourists or to make it more accessible for disabled anglers.
The following is a list of some of these expenses which will create numerous temporary and permanent jobs:
Building of new dams or upgrading of existing ones
Stocking and relocation of fish including Native species
Installation of fishing platforms to fish from
Construction of campsites on the water’s edge for specimen and Conventional anglers, some with an electrical point.
Ablution facilities
Building of a Clubhouse, outbuildings and parking.
Fencing with controlled access points
Maintenance and repair
Government, investors, landowners, shops and other stakeholders will benefit from of the following income streams:
Membership fees payable to Club and or governing body
Fishing licenses
Entrance fee
Bait and tackle sales
Accommodation or camping fee
Renting out of equipment
Income generated from facilities on the premises like a Restaurant, pub and tackle shop.
Fishing lessons
Fishing tours
Tourism in general
Media
Having FIVE new styles of fishing means that there will be more than enough things to sell, advertise and talk about. Overseas there are so many companies fiercely competing for market share and there is no better way to get their message across than making use of magazines, newspaper, television and radio.
VENUES:
Most venues in the UK are referred to as commercial fisheries and operate almost exactly like a golf club except that the golf course is replaced with a variety of lakes. A good example of such a venue is Cudmore fisheries. This following links will give you an excellent drone view of the facility as well as how it is fished and also a better understanding of exactly what’s on offer at such a venue. The videos also show a variety of waterbirds living at these venues and therefor confirm that birds and anglers can comfortably share the same venue.
Aerial view: https://youtu.be/aV2sKZn8I78 .
Website: http://www.cudmorefisheries.co.uk/lakes/ .
Pole and Waggler venues: These are both float fishing styles and narrower waters with a fairly quick sloping bottom is therefore more suitable. The next photo is an example of a typical Match fishing venue in the UK. They refer to these as “Snake lakes “and is a very clever way to maximise the use of a small piece of land. These lakes are usually very well stocked with a variety of species. The way Pole and Waggler fishing is done also makes it possible to have pegs fairly close to each other and that helps to maximise the use of the facility. Visit the following link for more information on these venues http://www.partridgelakes.co.uk/waters/the-coveys/
Most venues in the UK are referred to as commercial fisheries and operate almost exactly like a golf club except that the golf course is replaced with a variety of lakes. A good example of such a venue is Cudmore fisheries. This following links will give you an excellent drone view of the facility as well as how it is fished and also a better understanding of exactly what’s on offer at such a venue. The videos also show a variety of waterbirds living at these venues and therefor confirm that birds and anglers can comfortably share the same venue.
Aerial view: https://youtu.be/aV2sKZn8I78 .
Website: http://www.cudmorefisheries.co.uk/lakes/ .
Pole and Waggler venues: These are both float fishing styles and narrower waters with a fairly quick sloping bottom is therefore more suitable. The next photo is an example of a typical Match fishing venue in the UK. They refer to these as “Snake lakes “and is a very clever way to maximise the use of a small piece of land. These lakes are usually very well stocked with a variety of species. The way Pole and Waggler fishing is done also makes it possible to have pegs fairly close to each other and that helps to maximise the use of the facility. Visit the following link for more information on these venues http://www.partridgelakes.co.uk/waters/the-coveys/
The other styles of fishing we want to introduce are more suitable for bigger waters but will work at just about all dams and rivers with little or no current. Specimen lakes are designed and managed to produce carp. They are bigger waters and the pegs (fishing spots) are further apart. Anglers often stay overnight and the facility usually caters for it by having suitable pegs and an ablution block where possible. Owners manage the number of fish in these lakes by relocating some of the smaller fish. This combined with the big volumes of High Nutritional bait used by Specimen Angler allow these fish to grow very big, quickly.
Example of a UK Specimen lake venue: http://www.cromwelllake.com/about-us/
Example of a UK Specimen lake venue: http://www.cromwelllake.com/about-us/
SPECIES:
The styles of fishing we discuss are predominantly used for Carp fishing but is equally effective when targeting native species like Perch, Bream and many others. The biggest difference between these styles and artificial lure / fly fishing is that the carp fishing styles draw fish into the fishing area whereas with the others you have to go and find them.
FISHING STYLES:
CONVENTIONAL ANGLING:
Most Australian freshwater fishermen will be familiar with this style of fishing but only in its very basic form. This style of fishing is in my opinion the best all-rounder and the first step to become a capable or serious sport angler. It is very easy and cost effective for the novice to take up conventional angling. Standard and variations of well-known rigs like the Paternoster and the RV rig from South Africa are used. The difference is that the angler now fish with a plan or goal and consider factors like the venue, weather conditions, water colour, size of waterbody, hardness of lake bed, silt, weeds, and target species which will then determine the rig, bait and presentation. This style of fishing relies heavily on flavours and colours to attract and keep fish in your fishing area. Anglers can quite easily have 30 – 60 different dip combinations of flavour, colour and viscosity. After casting, rods are placed on rod rests which gives the angler freedom to do other things whilst waiting for a bite. This style of fishing can be very popular, especially amongst people who enjoy fishing, camping and spending time with family and friends in healthy natural surroundings. The sport caters equally well for the serious angler who always look to have the edge over fellow competitors. The massive range of bait and tackle unique to this sport allows anglers to consistently upgrade and improve their tactics. A well prepared conventional angler will have the following equipment:
Rods, High quality Graphite / carbon:
- 2 x 10ft for accuracy and ease of use up to 70 meter
- 2 x 12ft for up to 100 meter
- 2 x 13ft for 100 meter+
Baitrunner Reels, usually Shimano or Daiwa. One for each rod and 10 – 20 spare spools clipped in at different distances.
Tackle box on metal stand with rod rests – Keeps everything together, neat and off the ground.
Tackle box contents: Approximately 50 containers with different bait, flavours, scents, colorants, terminal tackle and rigs.
Nets – 2 x Keepnets and 2 x Landing nets.
Tripod Keepnet stand and Rod holder for 4 rods on standby.
This style caters for everybody, irrespective of your age, gender, physical and financial ability. The following amateur video clips illustrates this and also gives an indication of the fishing and camping equipment used.
General:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bzbvdibwgx8
https://youtu.be/XN6uI85m1JE
Ladies National Championships:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wzHkWrteDqY
Disability event:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XQ4dnhcs-rc
The styles of fishing we discuss are predominantly used for Carp fishing but is equally effective when targeting native species like Perch, Bream and many others. The biggest difference between these styles and artificial lure / fly fishing is that the carp fishing styles draw fish into the fishing area whereas with the others you have to go and find them.
FISHING STYLES:
CONVENTIONAL ANGLING:
Most Australian freshwater fishermen will be familiar with this style of fishing but only in its very basic form. This style of fishing is in my opinion the best all-rounder and the first step to become a capable or serious sport angler. It is very easy and cost effective for the novice to take up conventional angling. Standard and variations of well-known rigs like the Paternoster and the RV rig from South Africa are used. The difference is that the angler now fish with a plan or goal and consider factors like the venue, weather conditions, water colour, size of waterbody, hardness of lake bed, silt, weeds, and target species which will then determine the rig, bait and presentation. This style of fishing relies heavily on flavours and colours to attract and keep fish in your fishing area. Anglers can quite easily have 30 – 60 different dip combinations of flavour, colour and viscosity. After casting, rods are placed on rod rests which gives the angler freedom to do other things whilst waiting for a bite. This style of fishing can be very popular, especially amongst people who enjoy fishing, camping and spending time with family and friends in healthy natural surroundings. The sport caters equally well for the serious angler who always look to have the edge over fellow competitors. The massive range of bait and tackle unique to this sport allows anglers to consistently upgrade and improve their tactics. A well prepared conventional angler will have the following equipment:
Rods, High quality Graphite / carbon:
- 2 x 10ft for accuracy and ease of use up to 70 meter
- 2 x 12ft for up to 100 meter
- 2 x 13ft for 100 meter+
Baitrunner Reels, usually Shimano or Daiwa. One for each rod and 10 – 20 spare spools clipped in at different distances.
Tackle box on metal stand with rod rests – Keeps everything together, neat and off the ground.
Tackle box contents: Approximately 50 containers with different bait, flavours, scents, colorants, terminal tackle and rigs.
Nets – 2 x Keepnets and 2 x Landing nets.
Tripod Keepnet stand and Rod holder for 4 rods on standby.
This style caters for everybody, irrespective of your age, gender, physical and financial ability. The following amateur video clips illustrates this and also gives an indication of the fishing and camping equipment used.
General:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bzbvdibwgx8
https://youtu.be/XN6uI85m1JE
Ladies National Championships:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wzHkWrteDqY
Disability event:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XQ4dnhcs-rc
MATCH / COARSE FISHING:
This style of fishing is extremely popular all over Europe with growing numbers in all other countries where carp is a target species. Apart from some limited equipment supplied by Bank Angler Australia, anglers currently import everything they need from the UK. For this style of fishing the angler remain stationary on a seat box (tackle box) for the duration of a session. It is perfect for a short competition or social session lasting 5 to 7 hours. It is intense fishing and requires you to be more focussed. Pole, waggler and feeder are the three methods that makes up Match fishing and all the equipment is placed within easy reach of the angler. The amount of tackle associated with match fishing is huge and brands make substantial investments in the development of new products and the sport itself. A short description of each method is as follow:
Match angling: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l309H1RKXXo
Pole fishing – Instead of using the conventional rod and reel, the angler use a long pole (up to 18 meters in length) fitted with an internal elastic and rig attached to it. The length of the pole provides incredible accuracy at distances that would not be achievable using the rod and reel with very light and sensitive rigs. The pole can be slid backwards and forwards and sections can be added or removed when playing a fish. The very light rig increases bite sensitivity and gives the angler much more information as to what is going on directly under the float. Pole elastics are available in different elasticity ratings to suite the size of your target species. The elastic basically replaces the reel and gives the fish something to fight against.
To get going, most anglers will need:
- 1 x All-rounder pole. This is the most expensive piece of equipment and cost anywhere between $300 and $7000
- Seatbox (tacklebox)
- Rigs and basic terminal tackle related to pole fishing
- Pole roller and bump bar for the seat box to rest the pole on
- Lightweight landing net with a long handle
The equipment is not available in Australia and therefor imported from the UK.
To get going, most anglers will need:
- 1 x All-rounder pole. This is the most expensive piece of equipment and cost anywhere between $300 and $7000
- Seatbox (tacklebox)
- Rigs and basic terminal tackle related to pole fishing
- Pole roller and bump bar for the seat box to rest the pole on
- Lightweight landing net with a long handle
The equipment is not available in Australia and therefor imported from the UK.
Waggler fishing – This style has a very long history and is a very effective way of fishing. It is also float fishing but with rod and reel. This method can be used in all situations but really comes in handy when the water is very clear (overhanging pole more visible to the fish) and when you need to fish further out where the pole can’t reach. A seat box or rod rest, two waggler rods and reels, some Waggler floats and terminal tackle will be enough to get you going.
Feeder method:
This is very similar to conventional fishing. Rod and reel is used to cast a feeder cage with groundbait (berley) and single hookbait. The idea is to create a feeding spot that will attract and hold fish in your fishing area. It is ideal for situations when the fish are feeding on the bottom, in strong winds or when fishing beyond the reach of the pole. A basic setup will be one Method feeder rod and bait runner reel with terminal tackle.
SPECIMEN FISHING:
This is where the angler moves from quantity to quality. A Specimen angler specialises in targeting only big carp and this requires perseverance and an extensive knowledge of the fish and its habitat. Another big part of being a specimen angler is fish care and making sure your catch is returned unharmed. This style of fishing is also extremely popular and have a massive following around the world. The variety and quality of camping equipment, fishing tackle and bait unique to this type of fishing is quite staggering.
Basic kit:
- 2 x Carp rods
- 1 x Spod rod
- 1 x Marker rod
- High quality reels
- Rod pod (rod rest)
- Bite alarms
- Large landing net
- Soft or inflatable unhooking mat
- High quality Scale and weigh sling
- Variety of rigs and terminal tackle
- Suitable luggage to store the above items
- Specialised camping equipment
Last word:
Thank you very much for reading through this document. I hope that you found the contents interesting and informative.
Thank you very much for reading through this document. I hope that you found the contents interesting and informative.