September heatwave promises a bonanza of personal bests

Fisheries across the UK have hit their best form of the year for big carp, following some of the hottest September temperatures since records began.

Traditionally, this time of year is deemed by some of the sport’s biggest names as the best for beating carp personal bests as the nights draw in and fish go on the feed in readiness for winter.

It’s a theory that’s being proved at some of the top big-carp waters. In addition, commercial fisheries that hold larger carp are also reporting a huge increase in the capture of high double-figure fish, with specimens reaching 20lb.

Now, with record-breaking temperatures bringing warm water conditions, experts and fishery owners are saying there’s never been a better time for anglers to get down to their local carp venue and reap the rewards.

“It’s the best time of the year to target big carp and you’d be foolish not to be out there, especially with the recent high temperatures,” said Andrew Ellis, owner of AE Fisheries

“Some very high-profile carp anglers are all saying that this is the best chance of a monster.

“The only thing on a carp’s mind at this time of the year is feeding up ready for the winter and building up its stores of fat. 

“I feed my carp more now than at any other time of year. This feeding behaviour is being mirrored at thousands of fisheries across the country.”

Iain Macmillan with a fine late summer common.

Respected Shimano-backed carper Iain Macmillan echoed Andrew’s sentiments: “There are often more big carp caught between now and Christmas than at any other time of the year.

“There’s every reason to get really excited as this is the time when it’s not just about catching the really huge fish, but also big hits are on the cards.”

It’s not just day-ticket venues such as Oxfordshire’s Linear Fisheries and Staffordshire’s Baden Hall that have continued their incredible summer form for big fish. 

‘Runs’ waters like Northamptonshire’s Drayton Reservoir, Stafford Moor in Devon and Barston Lakes in the West Midlands are also in top fettle.

“There are loads of big doubles coming out at the moment, as a recent match was won with many carp between 16lb and 20lb,” said Barston Lakes boss Nigel Harrhy.

“Guys who just come here for runs are regularly upping their personal bests, and this time of the year is always spot-on for the bigger fish to switch on to the feed,” he added.