I normally turn to the carp lake when the pike season ends in March, but I've been asked by a friend if I'd take her son fishing, since he has a new rod for Christmas. The rod is a general purpose float rod, not suitable for pike at all. Float fishing at the carp lake in summer, I've caught small to medium carp, rudd and tench. Is it worth a trip there in January and, if so, how should I alter my methods to ensure this lad has a good first outing?

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Why carp Pang? Not really the thing for a first trip,unless they are very small and plentifull.If thats the case maybe a commercial? As things are slow and the weather not to pleasant this time of year then you really need to find a venue that will keep the lad interested.I have found lots of bites is far better at achieving this rather than big or lots of fish even.

Find a venue with small perch or other smaller silverfish.
Only trouble this time of year is the weather.
Try to take him during a settled mild spell.
Use a light (2lb) mainline, 0.08/0.09 hooklength and a 20/22 hook with pinkies fished on or near the bottom and you should catch.
Just go VERY easy on the loose feed.
If there are rivers near you even better.
A much more active way of float fishing instead of sitting watching a motionless float on a stillwater.