fly rodding for surface carp

help, where do i start, what type of fly rod is best, leader, etc ?

i'd be interested to hear about this aswell, i saw john wilson fly fishing dog biscuits for carp on a video i have, i htink he was using a 8-9# rod, 10lb flurocarbon and a strong disc drag fly reel, has anyone else had any experience doing this??

mmmmm. not sure about the reel, any should do if you cup the spool to apply drag. The rod should absorb the lunges ok . I f you are after carp to say 10lb, Daniels set up described should be OK, its good fun , but so is stalking them with a good Avon.......

I would recommend a rod of 9 feet, that throws an 8 or 9 weight line. The new Greys range of GRX rods have the perfect model. its sold as a Pike fly rod, but it looks ideal for carp. It has plenty of power in the but...and only costs ?80. Dont be put of by the price...its quality gear. I say 9 feet because u can exert more pressure on a shorter rod.

As for reel...I use a Leeda Dragonfly 120. Its about ?40 and is a disc drag reel. I cant fault it.

For a fly line, I would recommend a double taper for delicate work and small baits such as cat biscuits...or a weight forward for distance and heavy baits like floating bollies. Use a floating line...and try and get one that is grey/brown or green. A bright orange line scares the living daylights outta them.

Leaders...hmmmm..well...about 6 to 9 feet long, preferably tapered as u want good turnover. Have a look at light Salmon leaders in 10-12lb flurocarbon. or maybe down to 8 lb if the water is not snaggy. Remember...u will not have the same stopping power as a 3 pound test curve rod, and fly lines stretch!

This set up can also be used for Pike, Chub and Tench...yes...tench :O)

Give me an e mail if u want to know any more...