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BIG Crucian Carp
Phil Spinks Specimen Series – BIG Crucian Carp
In this Specimen Series, Phil targets giant crucian carp from a small and intimate Sutton carp syndicate in Shropshire. In true Phil Spinks style, he decides to fish a relatively underfished corner of the lake, in search of true crucian carp gold.
Phil doesn't disappoint on this tricky venue, not only does he catch a 3lb crucian carp, he breaks the magical weight four times with a few surprise captures along the way!
Advanta Discovery RVS Twin Tip Fishing Rod 11ft 1.25lb - View HERE
These are the perfect rod for crucian fishing on the feeder. The rod has a soft through action that makes playing the big crucians a pleasure, the action of the rod also prevents hook pulls when using smaller hooks than are often necessary for catching shy biting crucian carp.
But don't think these rods won't handle larger fish as Phil landed carp to over 30lb in this video.
Shimano Baitrunner ST FB Reel 2500 - View HERE
The perfect reel to pair up with the RVS rods. Crucian loves the margins so a small reel is more than adequate. A baitrunner is a must as the bites can be quite aggressive, also as proven in this video a big carp is likely to gate crash the session.
Nash Bushwhacker Baiting Pole System 15m - View HERE
Crucians love cover, there is no neater way of placing a rig with a small handful of free offerings any better than this. The pole allowed Phil to place his feeders under the canopy of the overhanging tree exactly where the fish were hiding.
The pole allows the baiting to be kept tight ensuring the crucians are never far away from your hook bait.
Drennan In-Line Flat Method Feeder - View HERE
Crucians are shy gentle feeders, so a nice small neat bait presentation is a must. Phil prefers the smaller-sized feeder of 25 grams. This is heavy enough to ensure a bolt effect.
Drennan Gravel Braid 8lb - View HERE
Drennan gravel braid in 8lb breaking strain offers the perfect presentation for the shy biting crucians. The braid is thin enough to tie a knotless knot using small size 16 & 14 hooks. The size of the carp caught by accident are a testament to the strength of the braid.
Guru Match Wide Gape Hooks - View HERE
Although popular with match anglers, these hooks play a big part in Phil's specimen fishing. Super-strong, sharp, and available in smaller sizes make them the ideal hook for big crucians. They also stand up to the job when the big carp show up!
Delkim Txi-D Digital Fishing Bite Alarm - View HERE
Possibly one of the best alarms available, the super-sensitive vibration sensor allows Phil to register even the smallest of line bites. This is important as it tells Phil how much feeding activity is happening in his swim. When a bite occurs the Delkims never miss a beat!
Advanta Discovery RVS Folding Specimen Net - View HERE
Phil chooses the larger 30-inch RVS net. The larger size copes with any accidental carp captures, plus the crucians can be retained safely in the bigger net while scales and unhooking mats are prepared.
Prologic Avenger Roll Up Flat Mat - View HERE
The perfect-sized mat for specimen crucians and will cope with medium-sized carp. The Sutton syndicate has larger cradle-sized mats in each swim so when the larger carp were caught they were in safe hands.
Advanta Discovery CCX DPM Low Rider Fishing Brolly - View HERE
The low rider brolly is lightweight and quick and easy to set up which is why it's Phil's choice of shelter.
Gardner Hydro-Flo - View HERE
Hydro-flo is a very strong yet supple mainline. Phil chooses 8lb breaking strain for specimen crucians, combined with the Advanta RVS rods it makes a well-balanced very strong setup.
