I saw very few carp today.
It was mostly sunny and a bit warm, but I don’t think we even sniffed 80F. The wind stayed away most of the day. Conditions were ideal.
It’s been said that carp spawn when the water temperature is between 63F and 75F. I took the temperature of the water at 4-inches of depth near the shoreline, and it read 76F.
I’m thinking the carp may have stopped spawning already. I don’t want to believe that, but I think that’s what’s happened. Why else are so few carp near the shoreline? Most of the carp I saw today were too far out to take a shot.
I explored new sections of shoreline today, which was fun. Lots of coves and bays.
The wind, albeit mild, had pushed algae into all the coves and bays. I’d occasionally see carp rooting around underneath the floating mats of green, but it was usually impossible to see where exactly the fish was positioned. Fun, but ultimately frustrating.
After a few hours of taking around eight shots and missing, it was almost time to head home. I’d decided to swing by the dam for 45 minutes or so before leaving, and fortunately I was able to tag a small carp, thus wiping the skunk off me. It was a relief.
Of all the carp I’ve seen this year, not a single one has been “tailing” in the shallow water. If it’s true that they’ve finished spawning, I’d expect to see them eating, but they’re not. Just cruising.
Today was an enjoyable outing, but not very productive.
I didn’t catch anything with my rod either.
Here’s a picture of one of the algae-ridden coves.
And here’s a picture of one of the carp I shot last week.
