Carp
LOCATIONS
BODIES OF WATER
Carp, known for their size and strength, can be found in various bodies of water throughout the South/Gulf region. These resilient fish thrive in a wide range of aquatic habitats, including rivers, lakes, reservoirs, and ponds.
Alabama: Black Warrior River, Lake Guntersville, Tennessee River, Wheeler Lake, Wilson Lake.
Arkansas: Arkansas River, Bull Shoals Lake, Greers Ferry Lake, Lake Ouachita, White River.
Georgia: Chattahoochee River, Lake Allatoona, Lake Lanier, Lake Seminole, Ocmulgee River.
Louisiana: Atchafalaya Basin, Calcasieu Lake, Lake D'Arbonne, Lake Pontchartrain, Toledo Bend Reservoir.
Mississippi: Grenada Lake, Mississippi River, Pickwick Lake, Ross Barnett Reservoir, Sardis Lake.
Oklahoma: Arkansas River, Grand Lake, Keystone Lake, Lake Eufaula, Lake Texoma.
Tennessee: Cherokee Lake, Cumberland River, Douglas Lake, Kentucky Lake, Tennessee River.
Texas: Brazos River, Colorado River, Lake Ray Roberts, Lake Texoma, Trinity River.
STRUCTURE/HABITAT
Carp can be found in a variety of aquatic habitats, including rivers, lakes, and reservoirs. They are often found in areas with slow-moving or still water and prefer areas with muddy or sandy bottoms. Carp are also known to inhabit areas with abundant vegetation, such as shallow bays, backwaters, and weed beds.
Look for carp near submerged structures such as fallen trees, brush piles, and underwater ledges. They are bottom feeders and will often root around in the sediment searching for food. Carp can be found in both shallow and deep water, depending on the time of year and feeding patterns.
PATTERNS
SPRING
During the spring, carp become more active as water temperatures rise. Look for them in shallower areas near spawning grounds, such as backwaters, inlets, and shallow bays. Carp are known to feed heavily during this time, so presenting your bait or lure in areas with abundant aquatic vegetation can be productive.
SUMMER
In the summer, carp tend to seek deeper and cooler water. Look for them near submerged structures or in deeper sections of rivers and lakes. Carp can often be found near underwater ledges or drop-offs. Fishing during the early morning or late evening can be productive when carp are more active.
FALL
As fall arrives, carp continue to feed actively, preparing for the upcoming winter. They may move into shallower areas near vegetation, fallen trees, or areas with a steady flow of water. Pay attention to changes in water temperature and adjust your fishing techniques accordingly.
WINTER
During the winter months, carp become less active and may move to deeper, slower-moving sections of rivers and lakes. Look for them near areas with warm water sources, such as power plant outflows or natural springs. Fishing with slow presentations near the bottom can increase your chances of success during the colder months.
Bait
Carp are omnivorous and will feed on a variety of baits. Common bait options for carp fishing include corn, dough balls, bread, worms, and boilies. Carp are also known to be attracted to sweet-smelling or flavored baits. Pay attention to the preferences of carp in your specific fishing location and adjust