Asp is a coveted trophy for an angler. However, catching this predatory and cautious fish requires certain skills. Catching an asp is much more difficult than catching a large pike or walleye.
Asp is a predatory fish of the carp family, mainly living in rivers that flow into the Black and Caspian Seas. Asp is also found in Lake Balkhash, the Amu Darya and Syrdarya rivers.
Asp lures
Like all predators, the asp bites well on wobblers and spoons. But when choosing a spoon for fishing this fish, it should be borne in mind that asp are more attracted by silver and golden lures that have an elongated shape.
It is believed that the lure for asp in color and shape should imitate the traditional prey of this predatory fish - bleak. Therefore, some manufacturers of fishing tackle even produce special asp spinners, similar to bleak.
A good catch can be obtained using oscillating and spinning lures. However, they need to be able to throw them far, and this is quite difficult, since they do not have the same aerodynamic properties as conventional spinners.
Tackle for asp fishing
Asp is a very sensitive and careful fish, if he notices the presence of a person on the shore or in a boat, he will immediately leave the places that pose a danger to him.
Therefore, for successful catching of this fish, it is necessary to make long casts. And of course, not only the skill of the angler is important here, but also the correct spinning rigging. The rod should have a length of 300 to 330 cm and a test value of 20 to 60 g.
Reels should be used with wide spools and smooth running. When using spinning reels, you should not choose the cheapest models, as they are not designed for catching large fish.
As for the line, monofilament options are more suitable for asp, since they are less noticeable in the water, and thanks to their elasticity, they allow you to cushion the jerks of strong fish. The optimum line thickness is 0.2-0.25 mm. Braided asp cords are not suitable as they are less elastic and bright enough.
Trolling technique for asp
The key to successful lure fishing for asp is the ability to make accurate and long casts. Therefore, beginner anglers are advised to use lures that are easier to cast over long distances.
After casting the tackle, it is necessary to make postings that imitate the movements of the floating bleak. This is done as follows: cast, pause for 5 seconds, then a few sharp turns of the reel, then pause again. This technique helps to attract the attention of a predator.
A good catch can be obtained by changing the speed of the drive. First, the reel is wound up at an average pace, after a pause, several sharp movements are made, and then several not very fast turns.