Taking your children on a carp fishing trip can be a great way to bond with them and show them the joys of nature. But, before you take off for a fun day in the sun, there are several essential items you need to make sure you bring along. Here’s what you should pack for a successful carp fishing trip with kids.
What to pack for carp fishing with kids

The bait: the most important thing to remember on a carp fishing trip with kids
First and foremost, you’ll need some bait. I remember when I was a child we’d look in the fishing shops for boillies for sale – which were so much less yucky than live fishing bait! Boilies are the most popular bait for carp fishing; they are little balls and can be made from various marine extracts, fishmeals, vegetables, spices, lipids, salts, vitamin/mineral supplements and other flavour/taste enhancers.

Top tip: be sure to bring enough bait so that each child has their own supply as well as some extra in case someone else needs it during the trip. The last thing you need is the children fighting over the bait supplies!
Tackle up
Next, you’ll need tackle such as hooks, swivels, weights, and rods for everyone who wants to fish. Keep in mind that even if your children don’t want to actively participate in the fishing, they may still enjoy just being out on the water and watching others fish!
When planning a carp fishing trip with children, you’ll need the right tackle to make sure everyone can enjoy their time on the water. Here’s a checklist of the essential items you’ll need:
Fishing rods
Choose rods that are easy for small hands to hold and cast.
Hooks & swivels
Make sure your hooks are sharp for catching and swivels are in good condition for connecting the rod to the line.
Weights
You may need weights or floats to help keep your bait lines in place.
Line & reels
Quality monofilament line is the best choice for carp fishing – select one that is strong enough to withstand the weather conditions but still light enough for kids to handle. Also, make sure your reels work properly and have sufficient spool capacity.
If you don’t own any of these items yourself, many sporting goods stores rent equipment at an affordable rate.
Don’t forget to bring plenty of SNACKS and drinks on your carp fishing trip with kids!

Finally, while not essential to the actual fishing itself, snacks and drinks are always important when heading out into the great outdoors! Make sure each child brings plenty of food and water to keep them full and hydrated throughout the day-long adventure.
Here are some popular snacks and drinks to consider packing:
- Trail mix or crackers
- Protein bars, jerky, and granola bars for energy boosts
- Fruits, vegetables, and nuts to munch on between catches
- Dried fruit or popcorn for a sweet treat
- Water bottles – bring a few extras if you plan on being out all day long
- 100% fruit juice cartons
- Thermos filled with tea, hot chocolate, or coffee
- Sports drinks
With all these items packed securely away in your vehicle or boat before you leave home, rest assured that your family will have an enjoyable time carp fishing together!
Last Updated on June 26, 2023 by Lucy Clarke