A beginners guide to carp fishing at night

So, you're thinking of taking your fishing sessions to the next level with night fishing. Whether you're a carp angler or course angler, you might be unsure about what to bring or what to expect. Here's our straightforward guide to get you started.

The best time to start? 

The summer months are the best time to start. For first-timers, it’s best to start when it's warmer and there are fewer hours of darkness. Most carp anglers will tell you it’s harder to catch during winter, and if you're not used to camping, it can be overwhelming, especially if it’s cold, wet, and damp. Summer is a great time to try night fishing for beginners.

What to expect? 

It takes time to get used to it, especially if you've never camped before.

It can get eerie. Whether you're at a day ticket lake, syndicate waters, or a river, it can be a bit daunting at night.

Increase in carp activity. Often, carp will show more activity in the evening, giving you a window to get a bite. You might hear carp splashing as the sun goes down, so it's best to observe any activities and make relevant changes before it gets completely dark.

Insect invasion. Bugs are the biggest pest in the evening, and you’ll notice an increase around your swim, drawn to any light you use. Bring plenty of repellent, as some bites can cause allergic reactions or infections. 

Roaming wildlife. We've had encounters with snakes, rats, mice, rabbits, and toads around our swim. There was even a time when we woke up to find a duck under the bed. Don’t be alarmed by the screeching yells of a fox attacking a hedgehog at 4 am. Be mindful of the wildlife around you, as anything can happen.

When to sleep? 

Sleep as you would normally at home. The first time night fishing can be a bit daunting and thrilling, but the most important thing is to get enough sleep to power through. You'll need that energy for when you eventually catch something, and you don't want to be sleep-deprived, as that could lead to dangerous situations.

What to bring? 

Night fishing gear can add extra weight, expense, and time to your regular day fishing setup. Whether it's for one night or seven, these are the essentials to bring with you. 

• More bait than you would typically bring for day sessions. Boilies are an excellent choice due to their rich, aroma and natural ingredients. Boilies have a proven track record for attracting carp, both during the day and at night. 
• Hemp seed and pellets will also attract them
• A bivvy or brolly (depending on the season).
• A decent bed that’s comfortable, with extending legs and good adjustable feet for uneven swims.
• Receivers or alarms with increased volume.
• Waterproof clothing (you don’t want to be going to bed in damp or wet clothes).
• A headtorch (to keep your hands free for catching/handling fish safely).
• A camera with a flash (to capture your nighttime catch).
• A pillow.
• A trolley or barrow (since you have more stuff than for a day session).
• Kettle, burner, and gas canisters.
• Cutlery: 1 mug, 1 plastic cup (for water), 1 knife, 2 tablespoons, 1 teaspoon, and 2 forks.
• Tea or coffee (store them in a small pot or container to free up space in your bags).
• A cool bag with freezing blocks (for storing food and keeping it safe from pests).

What not to do! 

Don’t spend a large amount of money on gear before trying out night fishing. Depending on how often you plan to do 24-hour sessions or more, the expense on your gear should be considered. If you only go a few nights a year, it's not worth buying the most expensive or top-branded equipment. However, if you plan on doing it often, it's worth investing (with plenty of research beforehand) in gear that will last the longest and give you the most comfort.

Don’t rush during the night.

Don’t rush into playing a fish at night. Take your time as you would normally. It might be out of your comfort zone to catch a carp at night, but it's best to take it easy for the sake of your and the fish’s safety.

Helpful tips

• Don’t leave food or bait out. This will attract pests like rats and mice to your swim. Always clear away fallen bait/food and securely pack everything away.
• Take someone with you for your first-time night fishing. Either a friend, another experienced night angler, or a partner.
• Bring items to keep you entertained, like books, magazines, or a game console—anything to keep you from getting bored, especially if you’re on your own.
• For inexperienced anglers, only tackle night fishing once you have gained experience in day fishing.