Whether you're setting up for your first carp session or doing a kit audit, this checklist covers everything you need on the bank, broken down by category.
Rods & Reels
You'll typically fish with 2–3 rods. Match your rods and reels to your target water.
Rod Pod & Bank Sticks
You need something to hold your rods securely. On hard or uneven ground, a rod pod is more flexible than bank sticks.
Bite Alarms & Bobbins
Don't sleep through a run. A good alarm and indicator setup is essential for overnight or multi-day sessions.
Landing & Unhooking
Never rush an unprepared landing. The right gear protects both you and the fish.
Rigs & Terminal Tackle
Build a well-stocked rig wallet so you're ready for any situation.
Essentials:
- Size 4–8 wide gape hooks
- Leadcore leaders or naked chod setup
- 15–20lb fluorocarbon hooklink material
- Coated braid or braided mainline for spod rods
- Shrink tube
- Rig rings and micro swivels
- Lead clips and safety pins
- 2oz–3oz leads in various shapes
Bait & Baiting Equipment
Shelter & Sleeping Setup
For longer sessions, comfort keeps you alert and on the fish.
Fishing Chair
Long sessions mean hours of waiting. A comfortable, lightweight chair makes a real difference.
Essentials Bag
These are the small items you'll regret not having:
- Head torch with red mode (doesn't spook fish)
- Antiseptic spray for hook wound treatment
- Forceps for hook removal
- Catapult for accurate baiting
- Polarised sunglasses for spotting fish
- Camera or phone mount for trophy shots
Track Everything with CarpMarks
Once you've got your kit sorted, use CarpMarks to save your productive spots and log your catches — bait used, species, weight — alongside live conditions at each location. Over time you'll build a genuinely useful data set that improves your fishing more than any new piece of tackle.