Carp Fishing: Not Just for Men! | Wendy Burhenne & Stephanie Bloemendaal

When you think of carp fishing, you might picture a man sitting in a bivvy — dressed in camouflage, watching his bite alarms. But why should fishing be just for men? The bankside is for everyone. As OMC's Dutch contributors Wendy Burhenne & Stephanie Bloemendaal explain...

Today, more and more women and girls are taking up carp fishing and discovering the relaxation, excitement, and sense of achievement that this incredible sport brings.

Whether you’re looking for a new outdoor hobby or simply want to try something different, fishing for women is becoming increasingly popular — and for good reason.

How Carp Fishing Changed Our Lives

We’ve both been fishing since we were young, but never for carp. Back then, fishing was just something we enjoyed — simple, fun, and a great way to spend time outdoors.

But everything changed the day we caught our first carp together.

That moment was a turning point. The sheer power of the fish, the thrill of the fight, and the incredible satisfaction of landing it — it was unlike anything we had ever experienced before.

From that day on, carp fishing became more than just a hobby. It became our passion. Our lifestyle.

We threw ourselves into learning everything we could. We watched countless carp fishing videos, spent hours researching online, and picked up every fishing tip for beginners we could find.

But most importantly, we spent time by the water — putting in the hours, experimenting, and teaching ourselves through trial and error.

A Lifestyle and a Community

Now, our lives revolve around carp fishing. We love every part of it — the patience, the adrenaline, the connection with nature, and the endless challenge of improving our skills. It’s not just a pastime — it’s a lifestyle shared by a growing carp fishing community, including more female anglers than ever before.

We want to inspire others — especially women and girls — to give it a go.

Fishing isn’t just for men. It’s for anyone who loves adventure, the outdoors, and the pure joy of being by the water.

You Can Start Too

If we could teach ourselves, so can you.

Whether you’re completely new or just curious, carp fishing for beginners is more accessible than ever. There are so many resources, groups, and products out there now that are welcoming and inclusive.

And who knows? Maybe one fish will change your life too — just like it did for us.

So pick up that rod, head to the water, and enjoy the experience.

Partners Wendy Burhenne & Stephanie Bloemendaal joined the OMC Family as sponsored anglers in 2024. Fishing primarily in their home country of the Netherlands, their regular carp angling adventures take them all over Europe.