Canal Carp
Arizona’s canals can be picked apart much like a river—and understanding the stretch you’re fishing can make all the difference.
Different sections hold different flows, different sizes of fish and sometimes completely different species. Having a few stretches in mind before heading out will allow you to move when the fish aren’t cooperating instead of spending the entire day trying to force one spot to happen.
A good rule: give feeding fish about 30 minutes. If those picky fish simply won’t eat, move on and find another group that will.
Bring a buddy if you can. Landing canal fish can be tricky with the steep banks and ladders. One angler can maintain pressure while the other heads down to safely net the fish.
A few more tips:
- Long leaders—12 feet or more—can help with spooky fish.
- In faster current, focus more on creating a reaction bite.
- Slower canal sections are generally friendlier for dry flies and dry-dropper rigs.
- Grass carp primarily key in on vegetation.
- Common carp may eat eggs, nymphs, worms and other aquatic food sources.
For flies, Headstands, Mops and Carp Ticklers continue to put fish in the net.
Treat each canal section like its own piece of water. Observe, adjust and don’t be afraid to move.
