Expander pellets are a versatile bait that can be highly effective year-round, but their use requires adjustment in colder temperatures. Fish are less inclined to consume large quantities of food in cooler temperatures, preferring softer offerings that are easier to digest.
Use a short line
To enhance your success, consider using a shorter line between pole tip and float for increased sensitivity and reduced resistance. Avoid aggressively striking at bites, gentle lifts are perfect to prevent the expander coming off the hook.
USE THE BEST FISHING POLES TO IMPROVE YOUR ACCURACY AND PRESENTATION.
Scale down
Finer hooks and elastic can also be beneficial when the water cools. Even large carp are less aggressive in colder temperatures, allowing for the use of lighter hooks without compromising strength. By fishing lighter, you are far less likely to bump fish too, meaning you will land far more fish to keep you busy on colder days.
A SOFT ELASTIC IS ESSENTIAL WHEN TARGETING BIGGER FISH IN COOLER CONDITIONS. CHECK OUT OUR GUIDE TO THE BEST POLE ELASTICS.
The rig
A size 10-12 hollow elastic offers a balance of power and stretch, making it suitable for battling large carp without risking hook pulls. For carp over 4 pounds, use a 0.15mm mainline with a 0.13mm hooklength. Gradually taper your shot out over the bottom half of the rig. Increase the gaps between shots as you move down the rig to slow the descent of the hookbait. A size 16 hook is generally suitable for carp when using either a 4mm or 6mm expander hookbait.
ONE OF THE BEST FISHING SEATBOXES IS ESSENTIAL IF YOU ARE TO USE A POLE PROPERLY.
Feed expanders
To further increase your chances of success, instead of placing a single expander on top of your micro pellets or groundbait, trickle in a few expanders with each feed. This creates a more natural and less predictable feeding pattern.
EXPANDERS CAN ALSO BE AN EFFECTIVE HOOKBAIT ON THE METHOD, SEE HOW TO USE THEM TO GREAT EFFECT HERE.
A little noise
A slight disturbance can also attract curious fish. Avoid catapulting pellets, as this can disperse them too widely. Instead, use a pole cup to introduce a few freebies from a height of about a foot above the water. By implementing these strategies, you can significantly increase your chances of success when fishing with expander pellets in cooler conditions.
USING ONE OF THE BEST POLE ROLLERS IS ESSENTIAL FOR KEEPING YOUR POLE SAFE WHEN FISHING!
