Carp fishing is a fascinating hobby that requires patience, technique and the right equipment. When you’re just starting out with carp fishing, it can be overwhelming to think of everything. With this checklist, you’ll be perfectly prepared and can start your first fishing adventure relaxed.
1. the right fishing equipment
Rod and reel:
- A robust carp rod with a length of 3.60 to 3.90 meters
- Free spool reel or big pit reel with sufficient line capacity
Cord:
- Monofilament or braided line with a load capacity of at least 10-15 kg
- A suitable shock cord for herbaceous or obstacle-rich waters
Hook:
- Size 4 to 8 carp hooks, depending on bait and target fish
Accessories:
- Leads (2-4 oz) for different casting distances
- PVA bags or nets for targeted feed presentation
- Leader material (coated or soft, depending on the water)
Click here: Fishing equipment & fishing tackle suppliers
2. bait for beginners
Boilies:
- Fruity or fishy varieties that can be used universally
- Different sizes (16-24 mm) to remain flexible
Natural bait:
- Maize (preserved or fermented)
- Bread crusts or dough bait
Pellets:
- Small pellets for feeding and larger ones as hook bait
Click here: List of the best boilie manufacturers
3. additional equipment for comfort and success
Fishing spot:
- A sturdy rod pod or banksticks with bite indicators
- A comfortable fishing chair and/or a fishing lounger
- A bivvy or brolly tent for longer stays on the water
Difference between Brolly and Bivy tent
A bivvy tent is a type of fishing tent that serves as a base for longer fishing trips on the water and protects the angler from the elements. A brolly tent is an umbrella-like tent that also offers protection from rain and wind, but is smaller and quicker to set up and is therefore more suitable for short sessions.
Handle catches with care:
- Unhooking mat for gentle handling of the fish
- Landing net with large net (at least 42 inches)
Practical helpers:
- Head torch for night fishing
- Tools such as scissors, knotless connectors and pliers
- Bucket for feeding such as the Carp Austria Camo Bucket
4. the best strategies for getting started
Choice of water:
- Start on a well-stocked body of water to increase your chances of success.
- Find out about local fishing regulations.
Prepare the feeding area:
- Feed for several hours or days to get carp used to your place.
- Use a mixture of particles, boilies and pellets.
Time:
- Early in the morning or late in the evening are often the best times.
- In summer, it is also worth fishing at night.
5. important safety and environmental tips
- Leave your fishing spot clean and take all garbage back with you.
- Use barbless hooks to minimize injury to the fish.
- Observe the local closed seasons and minimum sizes.
Conclusion: The ultimate checklist for beginners in carp fishing
Whether you are just starting out with carp fishing or have already gained some experience – good equipment and sound knowledge are the key to success. At Carp Austria, the largest carp and fishing fair in Austria, you will not only find the best fishing equipment at fair prices, but also personal advice directly from the professionals of the leading fishing brands. Take this opportunity to optimize your setup, discover new things and exchange ideas with like-minded people – all under one roof.
Buy your discounted online ticket now and save massively!
Online special prices when buying tickets
✅ Until Sunday, June 8 (Father’s Day): € 11
✅ Until October 31: 13 €
✅ From November 1st: 15 €
NEW: Ticket + 1 Carp Austria bucket (empty)
✅ Until Sunday, June 8 (Father’s Day): € 19
✅ Until October 31: 22 €
✅ From November 1st: 25 €
| Ticket Type | Price | Cart |
|---|---|---|
| Tageskarte (day ticket) | 11 € | |
| Tageskarte + 1 CA Eimer leer (Ticket +1 Bucket) | 19 € | |
| Anaconda Überraschungs Eimer (Anaconda surprise bucket) | 35.90 € | |
| Raubfisch Überraschungs Eimer (Predator surprise bucket) | 35.90 € | |
| 5 Stk. CA Eimer (5 Camou Bucket) leer | 29.90 € |
or here:
Surprise bucket – only available online and only while stocks last! Issue at the Carp Austria.
Online Ticket
✅Extra input
✅ You now save € 4,- on admission
✅ Saturday, December 6 from 08:00 a.m.
✅ Automatic participation in the € 500 shopping tour raffle
Anaconda surprise bucket
Value of goods over 100 EUR
+ 4 EXTRA chances to win
Predatory fish surprise bucket
Value of goods over 100 EUR
+ 4 EXTRA chances to win
Carp Austria bucket action
Carp Austria Bucket Limited Edition
Sturdy camouflage design & 10 liter capacity – Ideal for bait, spod mixes, boilies, ready-made food and beer 😉
Single price on site: 10 EUR
5 fishing buckets for only 29,90 EUR 😯
- Important information about the surprise buckets: The purchase of a Surprise Bucket or the Camo Bucket Deal does not include an entry ticket to the fair. The photos shown are symbolic images – the contents may vary, which is why we also call them surprise buckets 😃, but the value of the goods is guaranteed to be over 100 euros (depending on the country, even much higher). Additional prizes will be handed out immediately at the bucket distribution point! The Surprise Buckets and the Camo Bucket Deal are only available in limited quantities . Buckets/prizes can only be collected and handed out on site at the Carp Austria in Wiener Neustadt on December 6 or 7, 2025 – no shipping!
(Prices incl. VAT and ticket fee)
This day ticket entitles the holder to one admission to the fair and can be redeemed on one of the days of the fair. Children under the age of 10 do not require a ticket and are admitted directly by the ticket inspector.
