World Carp Classic - Offical Global Website
Lake Bolsena 3rd - 9th September 2012

Conceptually, The World Carp Classic has changed frequently in respect of its format, embracing changes where and when they need to be made to build upon and improve what we have, however, one aspect remains constant, the ethos that the event is inclusive not exclusive. The World Carp Classic is, and always will be an event for anglers worldwide to come together for a festival of angling like no other. The World Carp Classic experience offers all anglers the opportunity to compete against some of the very best, most recognised and respected anglers around.

When the World Carp Classic was launched in 1998 at Lac de Madine, Meuse, it was a 48-hour, individual event and although it was a completely new competition, 142 competitors from five countries took part. The 2,700 acres of water produced 37 fish on that occasion and after taking six of those fish for a total of 118lbs, the overall winner, Paul Rayment drove away the first prize of a Rover car worth £14,000.

Madine also hosted the event the following year, in 1999, where there was a 30 per cent increase in the number of participants as the competition switched to pairs. A year later, in 2000, when it moved location to Lac Amance, the format of the event was amended again to really test the anglers' endurance, as it became a 72-hour competition. The hugely renowned and mystical Lac D’Orient played host for two years in 2006/07 where boats were allowed for the very first time in the event.

The outstanding success of the competition in its formative years was certainly in no small measure down to the initial choice of venue, and Lac de Madine is rightfully heralded by many as being the spiritual home of the World Carp Classic. Although the subsequent moves to Amance and Orient were successful and enjoyable, the competitions return to Madine was seen by many to be ‘going home’ again.

Following on from the last four successful years at Lac de Madine, The World Carp Classic is heading to Italy and Lake Bolsena for the 2012 event. Located just north of Rome this massive volcanic lake covers 144km2 of water and has 53kms of bankspace. The lake is in fact 10 times bigger than Madine and with a road right around it, anglers will be able to drive to the peg that they have drawn and virtually fish out of the back of the car. The town of Bolsena will be the centre point for the event and we have been fortunate enough to have the historic town square closed especially for the opening flag parade. Leading the parade will be majestic white horses coupled to the original chariot used in the blockbuster film Ben Hur, and awaiting competitors’ arrival will be a full Roman fanfare to herald in the official opening ceremony. 

The scene is set and the challenge awaits!

Tight Lines

Ross Honey

Event Founder