i understand a snell hook is what 99% fisherman use for carp, but i always used a 4/0 circle hook loaded with sweet corn on a carolina rig with a 1oz weight with the drag set loose. i know this sounds unorthodox, but it works. anyone else do the same? i might miss 1 out 6 takedowns but it hooks well when it does. i primary catfish so i just have an abundance of circle hooks thats why i use that setup.

If it works, it works!

Post some pics of your catches!

4/0 is a bit big. Most of us use a #6 live bait hook - hair rigged. A bit different than a snell. The paylake guys use a 1/0 hook with the bait right on the hook. Carp have pretty small mouth. If a carp picks up my bait I usually have em hook 9/10 times. But if it's working and you're confident in it then keep using it. My opinion is you'd have better luck with a smaller hook between a #1 to #6

cool thanks for the pointers, ill try it out next time i get out. quick question with the heat still dreadful when do carp come shallower to the banks in the masses. the ideal water temp for the fall.

sorry for the novice questions. getting to learn more and more bout buffalo and carp. been hooked after i learned the fight is that equal to or more than catfish. depending on the weight of the fish of course.

Depends on the lake but usually when the water temps fall into 60's they become real active

I catfish mostly too so I use 2/0 3/0 Circle hooks I use for channel cats for carping.
I probally should buy a smaller hook tho.