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How to catch F1’s shallow in the winter

Kieran Marsden gives us an insight into how he catches F1's shallow in the winter.

by Tony Grigorjevs |

Published on12th February 2026 at 1.27pm

Fishing on the bottom is the default approach for most species in winter, but there are times when coming off the deck can work a treat.

We’re not talking about dobbing with no loosefeed either, and if you’ve fished for F1s frequently in the cold, you’ll know they can suddenly start feeding like it’s the middle of summer! This is particularly common on venues that have recently received new stockings of fish.

However, that doesn’t mean you can start fishing as you would in warm weather, and a little finesse is vital if you want to take advantage of a sudden feeding spell. Stick to a few simple principles and you’ll be surprised just how many you can catch!

THE BEST FISHING POLES HAVE SHORT KITS THAT ARE GREAT FOR CATCHING F1'S SHALLOW.

Prime a line

Shallow fishing for F1s when it’s cold won’t work instantly, and you need to feed a zone little and often for at least two hours before you give it a shot. Pick a spot that’s out of the way of where you intend to fish on the deck to start, and catapult in a dozen maggots every few minutes. Keep that rhythm going until it’s time to drop in and have a go.

FEED YOUR BAIT ACCURATELY WITH THE BEST FISHING CATAPULTS.

Create a slow fall

Your hookbait needs to blend in with the loosefeed if you are to have any chance of tempting an F1 into eating it. You can achieve this by using a light float that is shotted with three No10s strung evenly throughout the rig. A light and sensitive float with a carbon stem and a bristle is essential if you are to spot the subtle indications given by these fish.

HEAD TO ONE OF THESE EXCELLENT VENUES IF YOU WANT TO CATCH A NETFUL OF F1'S.

Get into a routine

Once you attack the shallow line, ship out and slap the float lightly on the water a couple of times. This will replicate the sound of feed going in, and attract fish. Wait 15 seconds so the hookbait reaches the end of its descent and then repeat the process if you haven’t had a bite. Keep feeding maggots at the same rate as when priming the peg.

FEED ACCURATELY SITTING COMFORTABLY ON THE BEST FISHING SEATBOXES.

Alter the depth

Aim to fish your shallow line in an area of your swim that has a decent depth. This will give you greater scope to explore the water column. Start with the rig set 2ft deep, but be prepared to adjust that by a few inches. Go slightly shallower if you are getting liners or foul-hooking, and a touch deeper if you aren’t getting any signs at all.

LEARN HOW TO TIE THE BEST POLE FISHING RIGS WITH THIS EXPERT GUIDE.

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