Updated - Fishing Tips for Beginners

Published on July 28, 2025

Ready to try fishing for the first time? At Bergsig Trout Farm, we’re here to help beginners and seasoned anglers with their first catch with confidence. Fishing in South Africa is a rewarding experience, especially with the right techniques tailored for our unique conditions, including winter fishing. Below, we’ve compiled expert tips, including winter strategies, rigs, baits, and more, to help you reel in these powerful fish!

Catching carp with high air pressure

Here's what you should know about catching carp with high air pressure - Generally, high air pressure (around 1010 mb and above) is often associated with more settled, warmer weather and can make carp fishing more challenging for bottom baits.

Here's why and what to do. Carp tend to be higher in the water column, high air pressure can affect their swim bladders, causing them to sit higher up.Lower oxygen levels, high pressure can sometimes lead to decreased oxygen levels in the lower parts of the water.Lethargic behavior, carp might be less active and less inclined to feed heavily on the bottom during periods of high pressure.

However, catching carp during high air pressure is still possible by adapting your tactics. Fish higher in the water, since carp are likely to be higher up, techniques like zig rigs (fishing baits suspended at various depths) and surface fishing (floaters) can be very effective. Focus on shallower areas, some anglers find that carp will move to shallower areas during high pressure. Use visual baits, because the fish might be higher up and the water often clearer in high pressure, using visual baits can attract their attention. Don't over-bait, forget about spodding out large beds of bait. Instead, focus on single hookbaits or smaller offerings.

So, while low pressure is often considered ideal for carp fishing with bottom baits, high pressure doesn't mean you can't catch them. It just requires a shift in tactics to target where the fish are likely to be in the water column.

Carp Baits Some Tips

Lately, it appears that some anglers have been struggling to make a significant catch or surpass their personal best.

Food for thought, the diverse array of mixed and sweet flavors in modern baits is quite enticing. Perhaps it's time to revisit the fundamentals. Some tips.

Sweet corn and bread are two of the most effective baits for carp, while nightcrawlers are also excellent. Krill powder and liquids are superb for providing carp with the necessary nutrients, and other notable options include coconut meal, liver liquids/powders, yeast extracts, and soluble fish proteins. Upon reflection, traditional rigs consisted of mielies, earthworms, and mieliebom. Despite the evolution of carpfishing into a serious sport, the fact remains that the best natural carp bait is sweetcorn. Sweetcorn is not only a favorite snack for humans, but also for carp. Boilies have gained immense popularity in carp fishing due to their versatility and effectiveness. Bread, worms, maggots, artificial corn, pellets, and flavored dough baits are also viable options.

Carp catching in the winter

Some tips on catching in the winter in South Africa. Carp fishing in South Africa during winter can be a rewarding experience, with a higher chance of catching larger fish compared to summer. Winter is also a good time to experiment with boilies, especially fishmeal-based ones. However, finding carp in winter can be a bit trickier, as they tend to be less active and may be found in deeper, more sheltered areas. Here's a more detailed look at carp fishing in winter in South Africa.

Location
Deep, sheltered areas, carp tend to seek shelter in deeper water during the winter months. Sun-drenched areas, while carp may be sluggish in winter, they can still be seen basking in the sun in clear dams. Areas with stable water temperatures, carp thrive in stable water temperatures.

Tactics
Boilies, winter is a good time to try boilies, particularly fishmeal-based ones. Chod rig, this free-running rig is effective in weedy or debris-filled areas, providing a stealthy presentation. Hair rig, this rig uses a small piece of line to anchor baits like corn, allowing the fish to take the bait without immediately feeling the hook. Baits, consider using bait mixes like corn, oats, pineapple, beans, or bird seeds to attract carp in winter. Chumming, employing European carp tactics, anglers can chum or bait specific areas to attract carp.

Important Considerations
Weather, A stable water temperature is crucial for carp fishing in winter. Water temperature, carp may be less active in colder water, so patience and persistence are key. Rigs, use a variety of rigs, including chod rigs and hair rigs, to find what works best. Patience, winter carp fishing can be challenging, but the reward of catching a large carp can be well worth the effort.

Over feeding or pre-baiting

Overfeeding or pre-baiting in small dams in South Africa can negatively impact water quality, leading to increased algae blooms, reduced oxygen levels, and potential harm to aquatic life. Specifically, excess feed decomposes, consuming oxygen and releasing nutrients that fuel algae growth, causing cloudy water and potential fish kills.

Here's a more detailed breakdown of the negative Impacts of Overfeeding/Pre-baiting.

Water Quality Degradation
Increased Organic Matter, decomposing uneaten feed adds organic matter to the water, increasing the biological oxygen demand (BOD). Nutrient Enrichment, excess nutrients (phosphates and nitrates) from feed and fish waste promote algae blooms (including blue-green and red algae), which can cloud the water and further deplete oxygen. Reduced Oxygen Levels, decomposing organic matter and algae blooms can significantly reduce dissolved oxygen levels, particularly at night, potentially harming fish and other aquatic organisms. Toxic Ammonia, elevated levels of unionized ammonia can also occur, which is toxic to fish. 

Ecosystem Disruption
Altered Food Webs, changes in water quality can disrupt the natural balance of the ecosystem, potentially favoring certain species while harming others. Macroinvertebrate Decline, degraded water quality and altered flow regimes (especially in small dams) can negatively impact macroinvertebrate communities. Potential for Fish Kills, low oxygen levels and toxic ammonia can cause fish kills, especially in smaller, confined water bodies. Clogging of Irrigation Systems, in some cases, excess feed and waste can clog irrigation systems, causing operational problems for farmers. 

Specific Considerations for Small Dams
Limited Water Volume, small dams have a smaller water volume, making them more susceptible to the impacts of overfeeding and pre-baiting. Cumulative Impacts, the cumulative impact of multiple small dams in a catchment area can be significant, affecting water quality and flow regimes.

Monitoring and Management
Careful monitoring of water quality parameters and responsible feeding practices are crucial for managing the potential negative effects of overfeeding and pre-baiting in small dams. 

Mitigation Strategies.
Accurate Feeding, providing the appropriate amount of feed to meet the fish's needs is essential to minimize waste. Proper Feeding Techniques, using appropriate feeding methods, such as scattering feed evenly and minimizing waste, can help reduce the amount of feed that sinks to the bottom. Water Quality Monitoring, regularly monitoring water quality parameters (dissolved oxygen, pH, ammonia, etc.) can help detect and address potential problems early. Aeration - In some cases, aeration can help to increase dissolved oxygen levels, particularly in smaller dams. 

Sediment Removal.
Regular removal of accumulated sediment (which contains organic matter and nutrients) can help to improve water quality. In a small dam in South Africa, excessive pre-baiting can be identified by observing changes in carp behavior and the condition of the feeding spots. Carp may become less active, move to deeper areas, or stop feeding altogether if there's too much food. You can also observe if the feeding spots become over-saturated, with uneaten bait accumulating. Start with small amounts of bait and adjust based on fish response. 

Signs of over-baiting.
Reduced Carp Activity, Carp may be less active in the pre-baited areas, or may move to deeper parts of the dam, indicating they are no longer actively feeding in the shallow areas due to the abundance of food. Slower Feeding Response, If the fish are already full, they may take longer to approach the bait, or they may not feed at all. Uneaten Bait, look for uneaten bait remaining in the feeding spots after a reasonable time (e.g., five minutes). This suggests the fish have had enough to eat and are no longer actively consuming. Silt Disturbance, Carp will often dig or "mull" in the silt to find food. If you see significant silt disturbance without fish actively feeding on top, it may indicate they are searching for scraps rather than actively consuming a fresh bait. Over-Saturated Spots, If you've created several pre-baited spots, and some of them are becoming noticeably larger with bait accumulating, it's a sign that fish are not consuming the bait at the same rate, and you've likely over-baited those areas. 

How to adjust.
Start small, begin with a small quantity of bait and observe how quickly the fish consume it. Adjust based on consumption, if the bait is consumed rapidly (e.g., within a couple of minutes), you can gradually increase the amount, but always watch for signs of over-baiting. Remove excess, if uneaten bait remains, use a siphon hose or net to remove it. Consider "little and often", instead of large, infrequent baiting sessions, try smaller, more frequent pre-baiting sessions. This can help train fish to associate certain areas and times with a free meal, without over-saturating the spots. Observe fish behavior, continuously monitor the carp's behavior and adjust your baiting strategy accordingly. 

By carefully observing the carp's behavior and the condition of the feeding spots, you can determine if you are using the appropriate amount of bait and avoid over-baiting in your pre-baiting strategy. 

Mono or Braid

Anyone who’s ever fished with monofilament has learned to hate line memory, and anyone who’s ever fished with braid loves the fact that there is none. Memory reduces casting distance, and increases the likelihood of tangles while casting. It may not be such a big deal when you’re lowering a bottom rig or setting a weighted chunk bait, but it’s a serious PITA when casting and retrieving.

Taking all of these factors into consideration, there is one commonality that becomes clear: as a general rule of thumb, braid is the better pick for fishing artificials, and monofilament is the better bet for fishing natural baits. Again, there will be exceptions. Deep-dropping, for example, requires both braid (or you’ll never even feel the hits) and bait. But in the majority of the situations you’re likely to encounter, the braid/lures, mono/bait combinations are usually most effective.

So, which should you choose to spool up your fishing rods? Well, obviously we’d say both. This is what we call really good news, fellow anglers. Thanks to the braid-vs-mono debate, you have a perfectly valid reason to own twice as much tackle and gear.

A main line with a fluorocarbon leader is generally preferred for the tight line sensitivity and strength, while fluorocarbon is often used for the leader due to its invisibility and durability. Mono may stretch, affecting bite indication, while braid offers better sensitivity and less stretch. Fluorocarbon, known for its invisibility and abrasion resistance, makes a good leader.

Braid's advantages
Strength and sensitivity, braid is significantly stronger and has less stretch than monofilament, allowing for better sensitivity and control when fishing.
Long range casting, its low diameter and high strength make it ideal for long-range casting, as it minimizes drag through the air.
Snag protection, braid is highly resistant to abrasion, making it a good choice for fishing in snaggy areas.

Fluorocarbon's advantages
Invisibility, fluorocarbon is less visible in the water than monofilament, making it a good choice for fish that are visually oriented.
Durability, fluorocarbon is more resistant to abrasion than monofilament, making it a durable leader.

Why use a leader?
Visibility, using a fluorocarbon leader makes the line less visible to the fish.
Durability, fluorocarbon is more durable than monofilament, especially when it comes to abrasion resistance, making it a good choice for the leader.
Sinking, fluorocarbon is a sinking line, which can help to keep the line close to the bottom, especially when fishing in deep water.

Effect of moon in winter to fish for carp

The moon's effect on carp fishing is a topic of ongoing discussion among anglers, with some believing it significantly influences carp behavior, while others see it as a minor factor or even a myth. While some anglers report increased activity around full and new moons, others find no discernible pattern. Ultimately, the moon's influence is likely intertwined with other environmental factors like weather, water temperature, and oxygen levels, making carp behavior complex and unpredictable. 

Here's a more detailed breakdown, arguments for Moon Phase Influence.
Increased Activity, some anglers believe that carp are more active and feed more aggressively during full and new moon phases, possibly due to increased light (full moon) or tidal changes (new moon). 
Potential for Larger Fish, some anglers suggest that during full moons, when there is less competition from smaller fish, larger carp might be more likely to take a bait. 
Site-Specific Effects, some anglers believe the moon's influence can be site-specific, with certain moon phases being more effective on particular waters. 
Personal Observation, many anglers who believe in the moon's influence base their observations on years of personal fishing experience and tracking their own catches. 

Arguments against Moon Phase Influence.
No Consistent Pattern, many anglers report catching carp during all moon phases, making it difficult to establish a clear correlation. 
Overlapping Factors, the moon's influence is often intertwined with weather, water temperature, and other factors, making it hard to isolate its specific effect. 
Lack of Scientific Evidence, while anglers observe patterns, there's a lack of conclusive scientific research to definitively prove or disprove the moon's effect on carp fishing. 
Other Factors Predominate, some anglers believe that other factors like weather, water conditions, and angler skill are more significant in determining fishing success. 

Winter Fishing Considerations.
Water Temperature, in winter, carp tend to move to deeper, warmer parts of the water. 
Oxygen Levels, oxygen levels are generally higher in winter, but deeper water can have lower oxygen content. 
Feeding Patterns, carp may feed less frequently in winter, but they may still be active during specific times of the day or moon phases. 
In Conclusion, the effect of the moon on carp fishing in South Africa, particularly during winter, remains a topic of debate. While some anglers find it a valuable tool for planning their fishing trips, others remain skeptical. Ultimately, it's essential to consider the moon's influence alongside other factors like weather, water conditions, and the specific characteristics of the fishing location. 

What is the best rig for carp in the winter?

Zig Rig, the Zig Rig is popular for winter carp fishing because it's effective in colder water temperatures. This rig features a floating foam or Zig Aligna sleeve that keeps the hook bait off the bottom, making it more visible to carp.

What is the best bait for carp in the winter?

Anglers who employ European carp tactics will chum or bait specific areas to draw carp in. Simple mixes of corn, oats, pineapple chunks, bean varieties, and even bird seeds can coax these heavyweights in the winter.

What's the best way to catch carp in the winter?

In Winter the best baits for carp are maggots, corn and worms, in that order. For some reason the maggots work really well in the cold. Other baits like bread, dough.... even slugs and snails have a chance of hooking a carp.

Best time of day to catch a carp?

Traditionally the best times of the day to catch carp are early morning, early evening or at night though they can be caught at anytime throughout the day. They feed more aggressively under cover of darkness and so dawn and dusk tend to be the most successful times.

What's irresistible to a carp?

They favor insects, aquatic worms, crustaceans, and mollusks, but also consume algae and other plant matter. Due to this diverse diet, a variety of carp baits trip their triggers, from natural offerings to homemade doughbaits and mass-produced softbaits, dips, boilies, and such.

What is the best attractor for winter carp?

In winter, carp seek deeper, warmer waters with stable temperatures. Oxygen levels are higher, but deeper areas may have lower oxygen, affecting feeding. Dress warmly with thermal layers and waterproof boots, and be patient, as bites may be slower but can yield larger fish. Experiment with moon phases, as some anglers report better catches during full or new moons, though results vary.

Does vinegar attract carp?

They have two open sides that have not been affected by the heat process creating a very porous bait that will readily soak up liquid foods, or other liquid attractors such as diluted flavours, seafood extracts or even good old vinegar.

Will garlic attract carp?

Peel them, trim them a little to help that unmistakable smell disperse in the water, and pop them on a Hair Rig. The cloves are quite visible, garlic stinks and it catches carp!”

What color can carp see best?

Some feedback from carp anglers suggests that carp may have a preference for colors in the pink and orange spectrum

Carp fishing and understanding spawning

Carp fishing in South Africa involves understanding their spawning habits, which typically occur in spring and sometimes in fall, and are influenced by water temperature and vegetation. During spawning, carp move to shallow areas with submerged vegetation where they spawn. While carp don't feed heavily during the spawn, they are very active and visible, often splashing and thrashing in the water. Before and after spawning, they are hungry and can be found in large schools in shallow lagoons, making them susceptible to fishing. 

Spawning Behavior.
Timing, carp spawning generally occurs in spring and sometimes in the fall, with water temperature being a key trigger. 
Location, they spawn in shallow areas with submerged vegetation or sand, often near emergent reeds, sunken logs, or rocks. 
Visible Signs, during spawning, carp can be seen splashing, jumping, and rubbing against objects in the water. They may also be visible on the surface or create wakes as they move. 
Activity, while carp don't feed heavily during the spawn, they are very active and visible, engaging in spawning rituals. 
Pre- and Post-Spawn, before and after spawning, carp are actively feeding and can be found in large schools in shallow lagoons. 

Fishing Strategies.
Targeting Spawning Carp, fishing during the actual spawn can be challenging as carp are not focused on feeding. 
Pre- and Post-Spawn, fishing before and after the spawn is generally more productive as carp are actively feeding. 
Spotting Spawning Carp, look for signs of spawning activity like splashing, jumping, and visible fish in shallow areas with vegetation. 
Baiting, pre-baiting a swim for a few weeks can be effective for attracting and holding carp. 
Bait Selection, natural baits like sweetcorn, boilies, and bread, along with particle baits like hempseed and tiger nuts, are popular choices. 
Hook Size, using a silver hook, potentially starting with a size 1 or 2, can be effective, and adjusting hook size based on the size of the carp you're targeting is recommended. 
Location, exploring different lakes and areas within a lake can help find carp that are not actively spawning. 
Patience, remember that carp may not be actively feeding during the spawn, so patience and careful observation are important. 

Some tips on catching in the winter in South Africa.

Carp fishing in South Africa during winter can be a rewarding experience, with a higher chance of catching larger fish compared to summer. Winter is also a good time to experiment with boilies, especially fishmeal-based ones. However, finding carp in winter can be a bit trickier, as they tend to be less active and may be found in deeper, more sheltered areas.

Here's a more detailed look at carp fishing in winter in South Africa.
Location, deep, sheltered areas: Carp tend to seek shelter in deeper water during the winter months.
Sun-drenched areas, while carp may be sluggish in winter, they can still be seen basking in the sun in clear dams.
Areas with stable water temperatures, carp thrive in stable water temperatures.

Tactics.
Boilies, winter is a good time to try boilies, particularly fishmeal-based ones.
Chod rig, this free-running rig is effective in weedy or debris-filled areas, providing a stealthy presentation.
Hair rig, this rig uses a small piece of line to anchor baits like corn, allowing the fish to take the bait without immediately feeling the hook.
Baits, consider using bait mixes like corn, oats, pineapple, beans, or bird seeds to attract carp in winter.
Chumming, employing European carp tactics, anglers can chum or bait specific areas to attract carp.

Important Considerations.
Weather, A stable water temperature is crucial for carp fishing in winter.
Water temperature, carp may be less active in colder water, so patience and persistence are key.
Clothing, dress warmly, with thermal layers, waterproof boots, and socks.
Rigs, use a variety of rigs, including chod rigs and hair rigs, to find what works best.
Patience, winter carp fishing can be challenging, but the reward of catching a large carp can be well worth the effort.

Bass fishing in South Africa during winter.

Bass fishing in South Africa during winter, though challenging, can still be productive with the right strategies. Bass become less active in colder water, preferring deeper locations and larger prey. Anglers should focus on slow presentations, downsized lures, and deep water fishing techniques.

Strategies for Winter Bass Fishing in South Africa.
Target Deep Water, bass tend to move to deeper parts of the lake during winter, seeking refuge from the cold and warmer temperatures.
Slow and Steady, anglers should fish slowly and deliberately, mimicking the slow movements of natural prey that bass would be targeting.
Downsize Lures, bass may be less likely to chase large, fast-moving lures during winter. Smaller, more realistic lures or baits are often more effective.
Consider Dropshot and Deep Cranking, these techniques are well-suited for reaching the deeper areas where bass are likely to be hiding and can be fished very slowly and deeply.
Focus on Structure, bass may congregate around specific structures in the water, such as rocks, sunken trees, or drop-offs. These areas can be prime locations for catching bass in winter.
Buzzbaits, Spinnerbaits, and Jerkbaits, these can be productive during certain phases, especially when the water is slightly warmer, according to a bass fishing magazine in South Africa.
Texas Rigged Creatures, lure imitations like lizards, frogs, or crawfish can also be effective.
Don't Be Afraid to Fish the Bank, some anglers have had success catching bass from the bank, even in freezing conditions, according to a Facebook thread.
Warmth and Timing, fishing during the warmest part of the day (around midday) can be beneficial, as the water and weather tend to be warmest at this time.
Consider Water Temperature, while some water bodies in South Africa may not drop below 15°C in winter, others might be significantly colder. It's crucial to be aware of the water temperature and adjust your fishing techniques accordingly.

Papgooi vs Specimen Fishing

In the context of carp fishing in South Africa, "papgooi" and "specimen fishing" represent different approaches. "Papgooi" (also known as conventional or competitive bank angling) focuses on catching as many carp as possible, often using simple methods and readily available baits like maize or mielie bomb. Specimen fishing, on the other hand, is a more specialized approach aimed at targeting large, trophy-sized carp, often requiring specific techniques, heavier gear, and larger baits.

Here's a more detailed comparison.
Papgooi - (Conventional/Competitive Bank Angling)
Goal - Catching many carp, regardless of size.
Methods - Often involves using readily available baits like maize or mielie bomb, and simpler rigs.
Tempo - Typically a faster-paced style, aiming for frequent bites.
Gear - May utilize lighter rods and reels compared to specimen fishing.
Popularity, A common and traditional style of carp fishing in South Africa, with many anglers starting with this method.

Specimen Fishing.
Goal - Targeting large, trophy-sized carp.
Methods - Often employs specialized rigs, larger baits (sometimes boilies or particle baits), and may involve fishing for extended periods in specific locations.
Tempo - Can be a slower, more patient approach, focusing on attracting and landing larger fish.
Gear - Typically involves heavier rods, reels, and lines to handle the size and power of the targeted fish.
Focus - Emphasizes the quest for a personal best or record-breaking catch.

That's all for now folks

Catch you in the next one ......