How to play fish on the pole


by Jonathan Longden |
Published on

Pole fishing is one of the most precise and rewarding methods of catching fish. While pole fishing can be perceived as expensive , there are plenty of budget-friendly pole options available, making it accessible for all anglers.

Be it a long pole or a margin pole, having the ability to present a bait with pinpoint accuracy and feed at the same time almost exactly where you present your bait increases your chances of catching more fish.

If you are new to pole fishing, it can seem an odd prospect playing fish without a reel, but elastic in your top kits will help absorb the fight from even big fish to ensure you can land them with ease. If you are unsure, here is the best way to play fish on a pole...

Keeping the pole tip low

Once you hook a fish, keeping the pole tip low is crucial. Ideally, the tip should be at or just below water level, as this allows the water to lubricate the elastic, ensuring it stretches smoothly. By finding a balance between the elastic, rig and hooklength, it ensures that it all works together to absorbs the fish’s lunges, reducing the risk of hook pulls. Maintaining a slight angle on the fish helps control its movements, stopping the pole from bending too much and ensuring that the elastic does most of the work. It will also prevent your top kit being pulled off into the lake.

PLAY FISH EFFECTIVELY BY USING ONE OF THE BEST FISHING POLES.

Shipping the pole back smoothly

Shipping the pole back smoothly is another vital aspect of playing fish on the pole. Gradual, smooth and controlled movements are key here.

Having your pole rollers set up correctly makes this process far easier. Once you’ve shipped back to the top kit, detach it from the pole to gain better leverage and direct control over the fish. If you’re using a puller kit, shortening the elastic as you bring the fish closer will give you even more control, helping you guide it towards the waiting net.

HAVING THE BEST POLE ROLLERS WILL ENSURE YOU SHIP YOUR POLE SMOOTHLY.

A slick, easy ship type friction free finish is essential on all bigger/wider diameter sections as these are the sections that are shipped through your hands
A slick, easy ship type friction free finish is essential on all bigger/wider diameter sections as these are the sections that are shipped through your hands

Using a puller kit effectively

Using a puller kit effectively can make all the difference when landing fish. Keep the top kit low as you tighten the elastic, allowing it to do the hard work of tiring out the fish. Once the fish is in netting range, lift the top kit above your head. This sudden change in angle will bring the fish to the surface, making it much easier to scoop into the net.

THE BEST POLE ELASTICS WILL MAKE LANDING FISH MUCH EASIER.

Landing the fish

If the fish isn’t netted on the first attempt, there’s no need to panic. The elastic is designed to handle these situations, so maintain control and wait for another opportunity to bring the fish within netting range. Rushing the process can put unnecessary strain on your tackle and increase the risk of losing the fish, so stay patient and trust your setup.

LAND FISH MORE EFFECTIVELY WITH THE BEST LANDING NET HANDLES.

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