| 9 January 2026 |
| As we dive into the depths of winter, it’s the perfect time to reflect on what has been an incredible year for Canadian carping. From coast to coast, the passion, perseverance, and camaraderie within the CCS community have been on full display, made even more special by visits from overseas anglers who experienced firsthand just how special our waters truly are. 2025 included memorable separate trips from UK anglers Tom Wilshaw and Henry Lennon, with both being joined and guided by Paul Cioca during their Canadian adventures. These sessions highlighted not only the quality of our fishing, but also the generosity, knowledge-sharing, and hospitality that define the CCS community. A huge thank you goes to Paul Cioca for the time and effort he continues to invest in showcasing Canadian carp fishing and elevating the standard of content we share. His ongoing contributions play a huge role in putting our waters, and our anglers, on the map. Check out Paul’s YouTube channel |
| ANGLER OF THE YEAR AWARDS The votes are in and the wait is almost over! Join Anthony Russell and John Bulmer on January 18th at 7:00 PM as we go live to crown the winners of the 2025 CCS Angler of the Year Awards and celebrate an unforgettable season of Canadian carping. 2025 AOTY Award Categories: Most ImprovedMentorBeastmasterHardcore AnglerAngler of the Year These awards recognize the anglers who pushed limits, shared knowledge, showed true grit, and helped grow the community throughout the year. The standard keeps rising, and 2025 raised it again. Make sure you’re there. This one’s going to be a good one! |
| WINTER CARPING |
| Winter Doesn’t Stop Everyone! While many rods are packed away and much of the country is locked under ice, some dedicated anglers are still out there chasing the elusive snow carp. Hats off to those braving the cold and continuing to put fish on the mat, true commitment and a reminder that carp fishing doesn’t follow a calendar.  |
| MENTAL HEALTH A New Year Perspective January always carries a sense of possibility. A clean slate. While it’s natural to think about fishing goals for the year ahead, this is also a good time to ask yourself a simple question: How do I want to feel in 2026? Goals don’t have to revolve around catch reports or new gear. They can be about improving your quality of life, better sleep, making time to exercise, being more intentional with your time (especially with family), or learning healthier ways to manage stress. Sometimes it’s as simple as slowing down and giving yourself permission to do so. Fishing will be there when the days get longer. January is about setting the foundation so that when we return to the water, we do so more present and grounded. A reminder that the CCS Mental Health Group is available through the CCS website. It’s a space to talk, listen, and support one another. You don’t have to carry everything alone. Happy New Year. Kev G (The Mindful angler) |
| WINTER TIPS The off-season is the thinking season. Keep yourself mentally connected by:Diving into carp fishing podcastsRewatching CCS Live sessionsExploring archived content on the CCS platformReflecting, learning, and preparing for 2026. |
| MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS RE-CAST FISHING |
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| ReCast Fishing is changing the game by crafting high-quality fishing lures made from 100% recycled ocean plastics. Their mission is to deliver premium fishing gear while making a real, positive impact on the environment, proving sustainability and performance can go hand in hand. CCS Member Exclusive – 10% OFF |
| BANK SIDE COOKING w/ CHEF VICKYAnother Simple and Tasty Bankside Dish: Spicy Sausage & Rice Skillet This month, Chef Vicky brings you a fast, hearty bankside meal with a proper kick. Using pre-cooked rice and canned beans, this dish comes together fast and delivers big flavour with minimal prep—perfect for cold days on the bank or easy winter comfort food at home. Ingredients (1–2 Servings)Protein: 2–3 sausages (pre-cooked or fresh), slicedCarb/Base: 1 pouch pre-cooked rice (Mexican, pilau, or plain)Body: 1 can black or kidney beans, drained and rinsedFlavour/Heat: chili flakes or chopped pepper, salsa or taco sauce, chili powder or smoked paprika Instructions (8–10 Minutes)Brown sausage → add heat and spices → stir in beans, rice, and sauce → heat through and enjoy. Fast, filling, and built for the bank. |
| NEWSLETTER FEATURE Be sure to check out the latest video from Catch Fishing (Peterborough), featuring Will Muschett Carp Fishing, it’s an excellent and very informative watch, complete with a nice little surprise fish or two. Top quality footage, solid angling, and clear, practical insight into local waters make this one well worth sitting down to properly enjoy. Highly recommended viewing. Watch it here |
| LEAVE NO TRACE As always, Leave No Trace remains a core value of the Canadian Carp Society. We know the vast majority of you already follow this principle—but there’s always room for improvement.If there’s one New Year’s resolution worth making, let it be this: Leave No Trace. Every clean swim, packed-out bit of garbage, and respectful interaction with the environment helps protect our access, our reputation, and the future of carp fishing in Canada. Small actions make a big difference. Use #leavenotrace in your socials. |
| THE CCS STORE The CCS Store is open year-round and stocked with winter-ready gear. Hoodies, hats, mugs, and the ever-popular CCS sweaters are perfect for the colder months and CCS merchandise always makes a great gift. |
| GIVEAWAY #1 We have the first giveaway of 2026 coming very soon! It will be posted in the Official Announcements section of the site. Make sure to subscribe to that group to receive emails. |
| AND FINALLY… As we head into 2026, we want to thank you for being part of the Canadian Carp Society. The strength of this community continues to grow, and we’re excited for what lies ahead. Stay warm and stay connected. Wishing you, your family and friends a Happy New Year. |
February 4, 2026
Published by CCSAdmin