Among the many fishing challenges that players can enjoy inFishing Planet, targeting the Bighead Carp stands out as a rewarding and engaging experience. This freshwater giant is known for its elusive behavior and powerful resistance, making it an ideal catch for those who enjoy patient angling and fine-tuned strategies. Found primarily in Asia-themed lakes but featured in several DLC maps, the Bighead Carp requires proper planning, bait selection, and time management. Understanding its habits, preferred conditions, and the right gear is key to landing one of the most satisfying catches in the game.
Overview of Bighead Carp in Fishing Planet
What is a Bighead Carp?
The Bighead Carp is a large freshwater fish species native to East Asia, notable for its high-protein diet and unique feeding behavior. InFishing Planet, it is represented as a powerful and sometimes hard-to-find species that provides a decent reward in both experience and credits when caught. It is not as common as Crucian Carp or Grass Carp, but players who know where and how to fish for it will find the chase worthwhile.
Where Can You Catch Bighead Carp?
Bighead Carp are available in select lakes, primarily in regions inspired by Eastern Europe and Asia. Some of the most popular lakes to target them include:
- Sander Baggarsee (Germany): Known for various carp species including the Bighead.
- Maku-Maku Lake (Peru): Though not their native habitat, certain DLC events feature them.
- Weeping Willow Lakes (UK – DLC): Offers ideal carp fishing with multiple hotspots.
Check the species list on the map before entering a lake to ensure the Bighead Carp is one of the available targets. Knowing which location hosts them can save time and bait.
Best Time and Conditions for Catching Bighead Carp
Time of Day
Bighead Carp tend to be more active during the early morning and late evening hours. This means the best windows to fish are typically:
- 5:00 AM 9:00 AM
- 6:00 PM 9:00 PM
However, their feeding times can shift slightly depending on the weather and the map you’re fishing in. Overcast days generally produce more active feeding behaviors compared to bright sunny days.
Weather Conditions
Weather affects the feeding frequency of all carp, and Bighead Carp are no exception. They are more likely to bite in:
- Overcast weather
- Partially cloudy conditions
- Low wind environments
Use the in-game forecast to plan your session. Scheduling your trip during favorable weather conditions can significantly boost your success rate.
Best Baits and Groundbaits
Effective Baits for Bighead Carp
Bighead Carp are filter feeders in real life, often feeding on plankton and suspended ptopics. InFishing Planet, their feeding behavior has been translated into preferences for plant-based and sweet baits. Some of the most effective options include:
- Sweet Corn
- Dough Balls
- Semolina Balls
- Boilies (14mm 20mm) particularly Strawberry, Honey, and Garlic flavors
- Pea Dough
Experiment with different boilie flavors, especially those that mimic natural feeding elements. Smaller bait sizes tend to attract more consistent bites, while larger boilies may filter out smaller fish.
Groundbait Mix Suggestions
Using the correct groundbait mix is essential when fishing for Bighead Carp. A well-prepared mix not only attracts them but keeps them near your fishing spot. Here’s a recommended mix:
- Base: Carp Groundbait
- Additive: Sweet mix or Honey flavoring
- Ptopics: Crushed boilies or bread crumb
- Liquids: Molasses or Vanilla attractant
Spod rods or bait rockets can be used to deliver groundbait to your hotspot before casting your line. Keeping the area baited consistently will improve your odds of a successful session.
Recommended Tackle Setup
Rod and Reel Selection
Due to the size and strength of the Bighead Carp, your tackle needs to be robust enough to handle prolonged fights. Use carp rods with strong backbones and high test curve ratings. A sample setup would be:
- Rod: Heavy Carp Rod (13 ft or more)
- Reel: Spinning reel with 15+ kg drag
- Line: Monofilament or Fluoro line, 1420 kg test
- Hook: Size #2 to #1/0 for boilies
Ensure that your drag is set properly to prevent line breaks during long fights, especially when the carp starts to run after being hooked.
Feeder or Bottom Rigs
Bighead Carp respond better to bottom feeding rigs. Match your rig to your bait type. Examples include:
- Method Feeder Rigswith Sweet Corn or Dough Balls
- Hair Rigsfor boilies
- Classic Bottom Rigsfor general carp bait
Feeder rigs allow for simultaneous bait presentation and groundbait delivery, which increases the odds of drawing in larger carp.
Hotspots and Casting Tips
Finding the Right Spot
Bighead Carp often stay near reed beds, lily pads, and submerged vegetation. They are less likely to be found in open water. Use your sonar if allowed, or look for surface activity. Signs of fish jumping, bubbling water, or floating debris are indicators of nearby carp.
Distance and Depth
Cast between 25 and 50 meters from the shore to reach deeper feeding zones. Depths around 1.5 to 3 meters are typically ideal, especially if you’re fishing during warmer weather. Adjust your rig depth settings to keep the bait slightly above the bottom to avoid snags.
Tips for Success
Monitor Feeding Times
Use the in-game activity chart to plan around peak feeding times. If you notice a drop in activity, it might be time to change bait or recast to a different location.
Keep Your Area Baited
Carp are more likely to stay if food is consistently available. Use a baiting routine to refresh the area every 1015 in-game minutes. Avoid spamming bait, though, as this can drive fish away.
Patience is Key
Like real-world carp fishing, catching a Bighead Carp can take time. Don’t be discouraged if the bites don’t come immediately. Maintain your strategy, and be ready for long fights once hooked.
The Bighead Carp inFishing Planetoffers a satisfying and strategic fishing experience. From carefully selecting the right bait to preparing your gear for a tough fight, every step in the process is a lesson in patience and precision. Whether you’re fishing in Weeping Willow Lakes or exploring other DLC maps, understanding how to target Bighead Carp will enhance your angling adventure. With the right knowledge, setup, and a little bit of luck, you’ll soon be landing this heavyweight champion of freshwater fishing.