West Michigan Carp Fishing Social and Lighthouse Visit

We visited the beach and lighthouse recently in St. Joseph, Michigan. 

I love fishing but the guys out on the pier without railings, in gusty winds with waves breaking over the edge ankle deep in water, are more dedicated (or willing to risk a lot in the name of catching an occasional fresh water drum) than I am.

And, we were in St. Joe for a carp fishing social in the downtown for two days on Friday and Saturday in pursuit of the freshwater sport fish.

I caught one fish each day. I'm guessing the up and down temperature swings have impacted the carp spawning activities and we likely caught the tail end of the spawn in the St. Joe River.

Neither fish was too big. The one on Friday weighed in the 16# range and, being a River fish, it was a very strong swimmer.

Urban River Carp Fishing

I've been carp fishing since 2013. Like most everything that's worthwhile, fishing for these freshwater fish has its up's and down's.

Some days go well and some do not. Others take awhile to get started, like my efforts on Saturday morning.

We caught five with a hook pull that would've been six.

Books About Fishing

Here are some nice books about Fishing if you're looking for reading material:

• "The River Why" by David James Duncan

• "A River Runs Through It" by Norman Maclean

• "The Longest Silence" by Thomas McGuane

• "Trout Bum" by John Gierach

• "The Old Man and the Sea" by Ernest Hemingway

Longest Day Fishing Fundraiser for Alzheimer's Association

In 2024 I am participating in The Longest Day Alzheimer Fundraiser for the 2nd time and will spend the day fishing. 

Last year I caught 6 fish. Please consider making a donation to the Alzheimer's Association. Consider making a donation 

Here are some photos from last year's effort.

Fall Fishing for Common Carp

Here are some recent catches from Friday and Saturday's efforts.

Friday's carp were caught from an extremely weedy lake and Saturday's fish were from an urban river.

Shallow Lake Carp

Here's a catch from Saturday morning's fishing trip.

Sadly, the lake is overrun with weeds at the moment. 

Shallow water, warm weather, warm water temps, and fertilizer runoff from residential lawns help contribute to some of the weed growth in smaller lakes.

Even the deeper lakes suffer from heavy weed beds in the shallow areas near the shoreline. My favorite carp fishing lake in this area of the state has depths of 60 to 80' in some places, but it still has heavy weed growth.

Detroit River Carp Challenge

Hello, fellow anglers and adventure seekers. I'm Brian Pearcy, The Cardinal Carper, and today, we're embarking on an exciting journey to one of North America's most dynamic fishing spots - the Detroit River.

Here, amidst the urban hustle and bustle, lies a hidden gem for anglers chasing the legendary Common Carp. These powerful fish are known for their strength and cunning nature, making them a thrilling challenge for any angler.

As the current of the Detroit River flows, so does the potential for an unforgettable fishing experience. The sheer size and resilience of these carp are nothing short of awe-inspiring.

This one looks similar to the hybrid goldfish I've caught from Lake Erie. But with the size I'm leaning toward it just being a small, and young, common carp.

 

New Detroit River Personal Best

I just caught my new Detroit River PB this morning. I've been on a 4 year quest to land a 30+ pounder from the river. Keep in mind that I'm a show-up-and-fish-person. And, I primarily fish from 6 a.m. to about 3 p.m. on Saturday when the public parks are most accessible. 

I do not prebait, I don't fish where it's posted "no fishing", I dont have access to private land, use a kayak, have a personal home on the river, nor do I rent homes on the river so I can fish from the backyard for a few days. I fish from public parks about 12 to 13 times per year that are accessible to anyone and everyone (for a free admission).

I say this to emphasize that literally anyone with a desire, patience, and a little practice can catch large fish.

I've never understood fishing for small 1 or 2 pound (or even smaller) bass, catfish, or walleye like so many I see kept on stringers every week. It's just not my thing. I want to catch the larger, harder charging fish, if possible.

Pop over to YouTube. Search for "how to tie a hair rig for carp fishing" and go for it.

The common size carp around here is 12 to 14 pounds with an occasional 20 - 22 pounder landed a few times per month. So when I hooked into this Detroit River monster wannabee this morning I got pretty excited. 

This strong swimming river fish gets me as close as possible to 30 pounds without actually doing it. At 29 pounds and some ounces this fish got my hopes up for awhile and took some effort to land in the net (thanks Bill).

I'm not through for 2023. There's still time for the 30# in September and October, but this wonderful fish will help tide me over until it happens. I hope to see you out on the bank, pier, or riverwalk soon.

Shore Angling vs. Boat Angling

You don't need a boat to catch fish from the Detroit River. 

Many people fish from the shore, piers or docks along the river. It depends on your preference and the type of fishing experience you're seeking. 

Shore fishing has several advantages compared to boat fishing, which includes:

1. Accessibility: Shore fishing is more accessible since you don't need a boat. You can fish from various locations along the shore, including parks, piers, docks, and riverbanks.

2. Cost-effective: Shore fishing doesn't require the expenses associated with owning or renting a boat, making it a more budget-friendly option.

3. Simplicity: Setting up for shore fishing is generally simpler and quicker than preparing a boat for fishing. You only need basic fishing gear and can start fishing almost immediately.

4. Minimal Maintenance: With shore fishing, you don't have to worry about maintaining or storing a boat, saving you time and effort.

5. Family-friendly: Shore fishing can be a family-friendly activity, providing opportunities for everyone to participate without the need for specialized boating skills.

6. Social Experience: Shore fishing allows you to interact with other anglers, creating a sense of camaraderie and sharing fishing tips and stories.

7. Environmentally Friendly: Shore fishing has a smaller environmental impact than using a boat, as it doesn't involve fuel consumption or potential water pollution.

8. Safety: When shore fishing, you eliminate the risks associated with boating, such as accidents, capsizing, or getting stranded.

Shore fishing offers a more accessible, cost-effective, and straightforward fishing experience while still providing the chance to catch numerous types of fish.

I am starting a new Facebook group and page you might be interested in joining:  https://www.facebook.com/michiganshoreanglers

Detroit River Carp

This chunk is the largest from a recent outing at the Detroit River.

I enjoy fishing the river because it's challenging and you never know what going to on the end of the line.

It can be one of many species and could even include the largest freshwater fish available to Michiganders in the form of a sturgeon

Detroit River Carp

I am starting my focus on the Detroit River for the season.

I am convinced that the possibility to increase my personal best from the river of 28#'s is just around the corner.

But neither of the fish from Monday's effort were close.

These are my first two carp caught at the Detroit River this year.

I have started a new Facebook group and page you might be interested in:  https://www.facebook.com/michiganshoreanglers

Carp Fishing The Longest Day Alzheimer's Association Fundraising Efforts

Some of the fish from today's fundraising event:

Support the Alzheimer's Association 

Michigan Mirror Carp

I've had good luck catching mirrors the last few weeks. 

I caught another today while participating in The Longest Day fundraiser to benefit the Alzheimer's Association.

I want to highlight the mirror separately (and the big fish for the day).