Catching carp with a fly rod is a growing phenomenon in North America where the chance to sight-fish in freshwater flats scenarios for feeding fish that can run up to 30 or 40lbs quite easily and remain relatively unmolested by mainstream anglers is attracting more and more fly fishers every month. Coverage in the press is growing, guides are dedicating themselves in some areas to the catching of carp and even bringing in saltwater flats style poling skiffs to enable them to guide anglers in ‘skinny’ water.
New Host of the popular TV show Fly Fishing the World, Conway Bowman has just returned from sampling some fantastic jaw-dropping action with large golden carp on Lake Michigan’s Beaver Island.
Bowman and two videographers (Bill Owens and Matt Young) from Barrett Productions arrived in early July to spend four days on Beaver Island. “Wow! Beaver Island is a magnificent, wonderful place that every serious fly-fisherman should visit sooner than later,” said Bowman. “ The gin clear waters surrounding the island offer the adventurous fly fisherman the opportunity to sight cast to the biggest carp anywhere! These fish are big, strong and fight harder then any fish I’ve ever caught in fresh water. Kevin and Steve from Indigo Guide Service run a outstanding operation and know this fishery like the
back of their hands.”
Bowman and crew also took in the sights and the nightlife and thoroughly enjoyed meeting Islanders. “The Beaver Island community made my stay an experience I’ll never forget!” said Bowman. “Beaver Island is at the top of my list for the ultimate freshwater fly fishing experience!!”
Looking at the size of fish he caught like the one in the main picture above I can see what he means!