Fly Fishing For Carp

The question. Were you, like me taught from an early age that carp were trash fish and not worthy opponents? How wrong we were! Once I dedicated myself to specializing in carp, I was educated in a hurry. This is precision fishing, where a successful hookup depends on both a masterful approach and skillful, accurate casts.

In 45 years of fishing freshwater, I have never seen a species of fish so wary and unforgiving. You can expect 10 pounders—and might well encounter 20, 30, and 40-plus pounders. Just bring your eight-weight flyrod to northwest Michigan, and our charters will give you the most challenging fishing of your life.

The season. Middle of May through September. During spawning time—mid to late June and early July—you’ll normally see hundreds and even thousands of carp together. Second week of July on, carp form small pods and become very wary—making this time the most challenging time to fish.

The art. Wading or poling the flats is the normal way to chase this quarry, with waders an option. Water temperature needs to be in the mid-60s for carp to spawn. Because these waters also hold smallmouth bass you could carry a lighter rod for them, but the same flies used for carp will catch bass.

The difference. Bonefishing veterans say this experience is quite comparable, from gin-clear shallow waters to tailing fish. The most obvious difference? Carp are big and they fight hard, which makes them a lot more fun to fish.

Looking for a new challenge to test your skills, a different species to test your tackle, and new waters to rest your eyes on? Contact us to arrange a half-day or full-day charter.

Fly Fishing For Carp - Often described as "God's country", beautiful Traverse City is located in the northwestern part of Michigan's lower peninsula. Situated between two twin bays, Traverse City offers a wealth of sites and activities. Whether you enjoy water sports, shopping, camping, hiking, sightseeing, wine tasting, or any of a slew of other activities, the Grand Traverse area has it.

We are located in Old Mission at the tip of the peninsula that juts out and forms the divider between East and West Bays. Here is where you’ll find the crystal clear waters and shallow shoals that provide a prime feeding grounds for carp.

www.mytraversecity.com – MyTraverseCity.com provides a wealth of information for visitors to the Grand Traverse region, including accommodations, attractions, shopping and restaurant guides.

www.tcchamber.org – The Traverse City Chamber of Commerce web site also offers considerable visitor information including lodging and restaurant guides.

Of course, if you can’t find an answer to a one of your questions, or would just like to find out more about the Traverse City area or our Charters, or would just like to chat about fishing, we’d love to talk to you! Please, feel free to contact us.

Reservations being accepted for May 15 through September 30. Please call or e-mail to check availabilty of specific dates.

Book Now - "What the guide charges, is what you will pay and nothing extra. No middleman fees ~ book direct or contact the guide today!"
John Openshaw ~ President, WadersOn.com