Carp

Carp fishing near Hornbeak, Tennessee offers a chance to tangle with some surprisingly large and under-appreciated fish. Reelfoot Lake, a short drive from Hornbeak, is an excellent location to target carp. Its shallow, weedy waters provide ideal habitat. Spring and early summer, when the carp are spawning, can be particularly productive. Pre-baiting your chosen spot with corn or boilies for a few days before your trip can significantly increase your chances of success. A common local tactic is to use hair rigs with sweet corn or flavored boilies. Also, keep an eye out for carp cruising the surface on calm days; a well-placed fly or surface bait can entice a strike. Reelfoot Lake carp are known to be strong fighters, so be sure to use sturdy tackle. The generally shallow nature of the lake also means you'll want to be mindful of spooking the fish, so approach your chosen spot quietly and avoid making sudden movements. It is worth noting that Reelfoot Lake is unique in its geography, being formed by the New Madrid earthquake, and its shallow nature makes it ideal for carp fishing.