A Journey of Dedication and Perseverance

As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, autumn presents a unique opportunity for carp fishing enthusiasts. This past season, I embarked on a rewarding fishing campaign at a small complex of wild waters—gravel pits that I have known for years but had never fully explored due to their challenging access. The journey to these secluded spots required dedication and a willingness to trek on foot, but the rewards were well worth the effort.

Preparation for a successful fishing campaign goes beyond simply choosing the right bait; it involves a deep understanding of the water you are fishing in. Over the years, I have learned that knowing the structure of the lake is crucial for locating carp. Before casting my lines, I spent considerable time using a marker float to map out the underwater terrain. This technique allowed me to identify features such as drop-offs, weed beds, and submerged structures where carp are likely to congregate.

By carefully observing the water and utilizing the marker float, I could pinpoint areas with varying depths and structures that could serve as ambush points for carp. These locations often provide cover and food sources, making them prime spots for fishing. I also took note of any signs of carp activity, such as jumping fish or surface disturbances, which indicated where the fish were feeding.

In addition to understanding the lake's structure, I dedicated weeks to pre-baiting the chosen spots. I mainly used pure boilies and a bit of the good old corn to ensure interesting mainly carps and not all the other species to maximize my chances of success.

Knowing I only had few hours each time to be on the bank that autumn, I tried to focus on the best hours to be on the bank and the first bite did not take long. The first morning of fishing and after only two hours after having witnessed a carp rising to the surface, eager to feed one of my two rods had a mega run. After a long battle between the weeds, I saw a big dark head coming in front of my head, I was completely astonished by the beauty of this mirror. 

This first session was the beginning of some crazy moments on the bank. Indeed, after weeks of dedication and perseverance, I was rewarded with the catch of several big and immaculate carp. Each fish, robust and healthy, reflected the success of my efforts. The thrill of reeling in these magnificent creatures was a testament to the time spent understanding their habits and the environment they inhabit. The satisfaction of catching a fish that I had spent so much time preparing for was unparalleled

This autumn fishing campaign taught me that dedication and perseverance can lead to great success. The journey to these wild waters, the careful preparation, and the patience required during fishing all contributed to an enriching experience. As I reflect on this season, I am reminded that the beauty of fishing lies not only in the catch but also in the moments spent in nature, the lessons learned, and the joy of following our passions.