What's the best conditions to fish for carp in winter?

Says Dan Chart: "I’ve fished in all manner of winter conditions, including those when the fish shouldn’t be up for it yet one comes out! There’s lots of theories about when it’s best to go, but I prefer to be out there when it ‘feels’ right. By that I mean being comfortable and enjoying myself, rather than just being there for the hell of it with little hope of success.

“I don’t think winter feeding only comes down to the temperatures but a lot also depends on light levels – which would probably suggest why December and January can be particularly poor (as the sun is low to the horizon). These days I find it hard to be motivated about being on the pond when water temperatures are below 38F. That’s right on the point of freezing over, an experience I’ve suffered on too many occasions.

“That said, should we get any nice bright days, a well-placed Zig Rig can be all that’s required to get that bite that makes your winter. Alternatively, in these conditions I will sometimes try fishing the shallower areas where the fish seek the warmer parts of the lake where the sun penetrates that much more and makes a spot attractive as the fish feel more comfortable there. The classic southwesterly winds with mild overcast conditions can also be productive, especially if they stay for a couple of days.

“Finally, try to establish the bite time windows as these are generally that much narrower in winter and then you could use your time much better.”