The controller is casting weight. The hookbait floats. A long hooklength (3–6ft) keeps the bulky bit away from the fish. Sink the mainline if you can. Sweep to strike.
Never a pike trace for carp. Check floating-bait bans.
Rig
Controller rig
A controller or bubble float, a long hooklength, and a floating hookbait. Surface carp with the line as hidden as you can make it.
Components
Controller 2–8g, 8–12lb mainline, 3–6ft 8–12lb hooklength, size 8–12, mixer or bread, optional bait band.
How to tie it
Controller on a run ring or fixed. Long hooklength. Floating bait. Cast beyond, draw into the feed.
Common mistakes
A 12 inch hooklength. Trebles. Surface fishing a banned lake. A controller that lands on their heads.