How to Start Carp Fishing on a New Syndicate Lake | Sam Sheryn
If you’re looking for regular, consistent, and peaceful carp fishing for some of the largest fish in the UK, syndicate lakes are your ideal solution. They come in various shapes, sizes, and price ranges, but how should you approach them? OMC's Sam Sheryn explains more...
Regardless of your budget, you should be able to find a syndicate lake within an hour’s drive that suits your needs. Each venue is different, so some can take longer to master than others. One similarity they all share, however, is that after spending a healthy chunk of money for your fishing, you feel like you really need to make the most of it. Having joined several syndicates now, I’ve gathered some key insights on how to approach a syndicate water effectively...
1. Spend Time Getting to Know the Lake
• Visit Before You Start Your Campaign: It’s important to familiarise yourself with the lake before committing. Early visits allow you to gauge the lake’s layout and environment.
• Observe and Record Carp Activity: Invest time in locating carp and take note of when and where you’ve spotted them. Don’t forget your Polaroid glasses – they provide an extra advantage by reducing surface glare, allowing you to see fish more clearly.
• Talk to Other Members: Engaging with fellow anglers and reviewing recent catch reports can give you valuable insights about the lake’s hotspots and fish activity.
• Utilise Social Media: If your lake has a social media presence, use it to your advantage. Pages dedicated to the syndicate often share valuable catch reports, updates, and tips from members.
• Understand the Lakebed Topography: Your marker rod should become your best friend. Take the time to map out the lake bed using your marker rod to identify different depths and features. This will help you pinpoint ideal fishing spots.
• Keep a Log: Maintaining a log of your spots, including depths, fish activity, and bait used, is essential for tracking your progress and refining your approach over time.
2. Stick to What You Know – Consistency is Key
• Keep It Simple: Don’t overcomplicate things. Stick to a rig that you know works and one you’re confident in. For example, if you’re familiar with the Spinner Rig or a Multi-Combi Rig, use it when the lakebed is suitable.
• Trust Your Go-To Rig: Personally, the simple Spinner Rig is my go-to, as I’ve consistently caught on it across different types of lakes. Whether you’re using a pop-up or critically balanced bait, your rig should be something you have full confidence in. If it works, there’s no need to change.
• Fish at Your Comfortable Range: Fish within your comfort zone. If you’re confident at 18 wraps, then fish at 18 wraps with accuracy. Just because you can cast to 30 wraps doesn’t mean you have to. Accuracy is more important than distance, especially if you’re not confident at range.
3. Put in the Time and Effort – Consistency Pays Off
• Observe the Water: Spend time watching the water at different times of the day and night. Set an alarm 30 minutes before first light to catch the fish in their most active period. Observing the lake’s activity at various times helps you understand fish patterns and habits, especially in waters where the fish don’t reveal themselves easily.
• Visit Frequently: If possible, get to the lake regularly, even if it’s just for a short walk around. The more time you spend, the more you’ll learn about the water.
• Stay Mobile: Don’t be afraid to move when you see activity. Staying mobile increases your chances of a bite, so always keep your gear light and ready for relocation.
• Build a Picture of Fish Habits: Over time, you’ll begin to notice patterns in where the fish spend their time at different times of day. This knowledge will help you position yourself for the best chance of success.
4. Enjoy the Journey
• Embrace the Experience: Starting on a new lake should be an exciting adventure. Explore different areas of the water and take in all the lake has to offer. There’s something special about fishing on a new water, and the first time is always memorable.
• Connect with Fellow Anglers: Take time to meet other members. Sharing experiences and tips can be a great way to learn and make the most of your syndicate membership.
Approaching a new syndicate lake can be an exciting challenge. By taking the time to understand the lake, staying consistent with your methods, and enjoying the experience, you’ll increase your chances of success. Remember, the more effort you put in, the greater the rewards will be – both in terms of fishing and the overall experience.
Article author Sam Sheryn joined the OMC Sponsored Angler Family back in the summer of 2024. A keen and regular visitor to the bank, Sam fishes in both the UK and Europe, with tickets on the mighty Grenville syndicate and other big fish waters.
