If you think about fishing, carp is not necessarily the first fish that comes to mind. However, if given a chance - angling for carp can make for a fun-filled, action-packed day on the water, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division (WRD). To educate those unfamiliar with - but interested in - carp fishing, WRD has put together information on where to fish, recommended equipment, techniques and more.

“Northeast Georgia has some prime carp fishing locations,” says WRD Fisheries Biologist Reggie Weaver. “The equipment and preparation for carp fishing is very simple and easy – making this a great experience for someone who may be new to fishing.”

What are the best spots and techniques recommended for Northeast Georgia? WRD has put together the following information to make the carp fishing experience a little easier:

· Lake Lanier – this lake supports an abundant population of carp, averaging three pounds but with some weighing up to 20 pounds. Major carp fishing holes are Flat Creek, Wahoo Creek and upstream from Clarks Bridge to the head of the lake on the Chattahoochee arm.

· Lake Nottely – this lake supports a large carp population, averaging two pounds with some reaching 15 pounds. The best carp fishing spots on Nottely are Ivy Log Creek, Young Cane Creek and Kiutuestia Creek.

· Lake Chatuge – this lake supports a rich population of carp, averaging two pounds with some weighing up to 15 pounds. Major fishing holes are Bell Creek, Long Bullet Creek and upstream from the Hwy. 76 bridge to the head of the lake on the Hiawassee River arm.

WRD recommends medium to heavy spinning tackle spooled with 10-15 pound test line. The best baits are worms, doughballs (moistened bread), corn and prepared carp baits that anglers can purchase at local bait and tackle shops. Place the bait on a medium size hook (size 6-8) and fish on the bottom of recommended lakes. During late spring and early summer, carp are concentrated in water less than 10 feet deep in search of spawning sites. The best fishing spots are in the backs of coves around natural cover (downed trees and brush). The current carp state record is a 35 lbs. 12 oz. carp caught in Lake Jackson in 1972 by Donald Clark.

Take Me Fishing! ™ A recent national survey indicated that 87 percent of Americans believe fishing and boating have a positive effect on family relationships. So take your family fishing and you will always have something in common.

For more information on carp fishing in Georgia, visit www.gofishgeorgia.com .

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