Understanding undertows and flows
Gaz Fareham answers a reader's question...
Q: Do you take note of undertows or find that different sides of islands and sub-surface features fish in different conditions? Gavin Swanston, East Sussex
Gaz Fareham says: “I have no doubt whatsoever in my mind that carp are hugely affected by undertow and the currents that flow around our lakes. They’re simple creatures at base and they know that flow carries and collects food items, but as ever with carp fishing, whilst there are a few consistencies I have found over the years, I have also found it to be very venue, and season specific.
“Years ago, in my teens, I remember catching half-a-dozen fish one winter trip from a little spot in the lee of the wind up against a big set of snags. The little calm pocket of water produced when all other rods couldn’t buy a bite. That little bit of knowledge has done me proud on a number of venues over the years in colder conditions, and fishing in the lee of the wind behind an island, or snags, has produced for me time and time again. I’m convinced in the winter that carp often just want to be comfortable, and sitting in a heavy undertow or getting buffeted about by chop at the windward end just isn’t something they are after. Deeper water, sun traps and lees in the wind simply seem to offer them the shelter they desire, same as river fish sitting in a slack just off the main current - easy access to food, but less effort for them.
“In summer, it is a different ball game, and carp will often follow the wind and undertow around wherever it blows, and flows. Some lakes get savage undertows on them, and dependant on the topography and the shape, the currents will flow in different ways and dissipate at different rates. On some waters with severe tows, the carp get straight on the end of the wind and then are back off it within hours; on others it seems to take them far longer to arrive. Weed, depth, angler pressure and conditioning all has a huge effect though, so staying alert and watching for these sort of subtleties will definitely help aid your angling.”
