Although well-regarded in Europe, carp fishing in America was not popular until recently because serious fishers didn't have a lot of respect for the carp. More recently, sports fishermen have come to appreciate carp. They like the size of the fish and the challenge of besting them because carp have a reputation for being spunky and tough. For this reason, you need to be prepared with the correct bait, tackle, and tactics for carp fishing - if you want to be successful.

An easy and quick method for getting up to speed quickly on the best carp fishing methods is to find and join a group dedicated to this sport. The number of such groups is growing in North America and, in Europe, you will find numerous groups. There's always the possibility that if you search online you will discover a group or club in your city. Even if there aren't any where you live, you can still pick up quite a bit of knowledge online by joining groups and forums on the topic. Of course, there's no substitute for actual experience, so you should get out there and practice your carp fishing skills at every opportunity. People new to fishing don't often realize that they can frighten the fish away easily. You have to be really prudent when you are around carp fishing areas as carp, especially, are quite sensitive. Try to keep your presence as low-key as possible as you get close to the area you plan to fish at. Your voice, especially, will carry so, if you are not alone, only talk when you need to and do it softly. When you set up your equipment, try not to make a racket. Another thing to keep in mind is being careful not to disturb the body of water you will be fishing in. This will notify the fish that you are there and they will leave before you can begin fishing. Fish are not only sensitive to light, smells and sounds, but they also pick up vibrations, so keep your movements as light as you can.

When carp fishing, it's best to be familiar with the habits of these fish to increase your chances of success. Carp thrive best, and are more abundant, when the water in which they live is warm - between 60F and 70F is ideal. If the temperature is below 50F, carp generally don't feed, so you should focus your efforts in warmer waters. If you look for some type of cover that the carp could hide under - natural, such as brush or fabricated, such as a pier - you may find carp lurking. Bridge, rock outcroppings, lily pads, stands of reeds along the banks, and brush overhanging the water are all good places for a carp to seek shelter. Of course, it's best to become familiar with the area in which your fishing so that you can learn where the carp can be found. Are you new to carp fishing? If so, you won't be a master immediately. It will take practice and patience to acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to be an expert carp fisher. The secret is to keep learning about carp fishing - from other anglers and reading material - and be patient. You will be successful in time. Be very observant and take note of what the expert carp fishers do. This is a good way to learn many tips and secrets for success quickly. And, lastly, don't be afraid to try new things. Be innovative. Experiment with different bait, don't always go to the same area or spot, and vary the time of day that you go fishing. As you factor these features into your fishing and make adjustment accordingly, you will catch more and more carp.