This blog will enlighten you on the essential facts about carp feeding behaviours, particularly during winter. We will discuss the debate on what carp bait to use and whether carp feed in winter with scientific evidence.
Carp Eating Facts You Should Know
Carp navigate their underwater world using strong taste and smell senses. Researchers at the State Fish Laboratory at Livingston Manortested and observed the reactions of carp to 115 flavours and many types of food. In the experiment, carp showed a remarkable ability to detect oils and most water-soluble spices, but they didn’t bat an eye at alcohol and salt. These underwater munchers use special teeth and head bones to crush and munch on a variety of foods. It’s like they have taste buds in their throats, making them open to a colourful feast, as long as it’s chewable. Even blind carp don’t miss out on the foodie fun. They can still snag speedy snacks using touch and suction, showing off their adaptable feeding skills.
However, studies also suggest that carp have different sensory preferences throughout various seasons. Each carp could have its own quirks, adding a touch of individuality to their feeding habits.
Winter Bait Debate: Live Bait or Boilies?
The age-old debate among anglers continues: Should we use live bait or opt for the silent allure of boilies and pellets during the winter months?
In the wild, carp easily find carb-loaded goodies like plants and seeds during the summer. However, when winter hits, these food sources dwindle, making carp more likely to crave protein-rich snacks like worms (which boast a whopping 80% protein content). Despite a significant metabolic slowdown in winter, carp avoid going overboard on protein. Their adaptive behaviour kicks in, guiding them to take a snack break when temperatures plummet to extreme lows.
Carp Can Still Be Active in Winter!
Many anglers believe carp stay inactive in winter as they do while some are curious about the necessity of winter fishing.
Scientists, however, took a closer look at this assumption at a fish farm in Central Europe. Using implanted radio frequency telemetry devices, they tracked the activities of 14 carp over three consecutive winters in a single pond. Contrary to popular belief, the research unearthed a different reality – carp remain relatively active during winter, and their activity levels are positively correlated with water temperature. Surprisingly, the study identified feeding behaviour in carp even when the water temperature hit as low as 3.1℃.
These findings challenge the traditional notion of carp being lethargic in winter and open up new possibilities for anglers keen on trying their luck during the colder months. Hit the bank fellow anglers you still have the chance to hear the buzzers scream in winter!
Stay tuned as we delve deeper into the secrets of winter carp behaviour, debunking myths and offering insights for successful cold-weather angling!
[Reference]http://www.nativefishlab.net/library/textpdf/16185.pdf
