First Prep Session

First Prep Session

There’s something about that first hint of warmth in the air that gets the buzz going again. After a long winter off the bank, the first prep session always feels like the real start of spring. Not rods out just yet — this is about getting everything dialled in so that when the first proper session comes, I’m ready.

Tackle Check & Reset

Winter has a habit of leaving things neglected. So first job: strip everything back. Fresh line on the reels. Check all guides for cracks. Clean and oil the reels. Replace any blunt hooks.Tie a batch of fresh rigs

There’s something satisfying about sitting at the table with a brew, tying rigs and knowing each one is spot on. After months away, confidence in your end tackle is everything.

Terminal Tackle Top-Up

Spring carp can be cagey, especially early on. I make sure I’ve got:

Sharp size 4–6 hooks. Lead clips and tail rubbers. Inline leads for cleaner bottoms.A few solid bags ready to go

Early season fishing is often about singles or small traps rather than heavy baiting, so presentation is key.

Bait Planning for Spring

The fish haven’t been feeding hard over winter, so I’m keeping things simple. Quality bait. Glug Some bright hook baits for singles. A bit of crumb or pellet for small PVA bags

No need to go mad — just enough to nick a bite while they wake up.

Clothing & Comfort

Cold mornings still bite in early spring. I check:

Waterproofs

Layers

Fresh gas canisters

Headtorch batteries

Nothing ruins the first session like realising your headtorch is dead at 2am. 

 

The Mental Reset

More than anything, this first prep session is about mindset. Winter gives you time to think — what worked last year, what didn’t, what waters you want to focus on. Spring carp are creatures of habit. They’ll be looking for the first bits of natural warmth, upper layers on calm days, and areas that catch the sun.

Preparation now means less rushing later.

Because when that first proper spring take comes — after months off — you don’t want doubts about your knots or your kit.

You just want to enjoy it.

Roll on the first session 🎣