Autumn is the last chance for using pellets, meat, and corn effectively. However, as the weather cools, these baits can become less productive. While you might have occasional success, expect slower fishing overall.
The solution? Maggots. Two pints of reds and whites can produce bites from almost any species, allowing you to fish effectively at all depths.
The "through the water" technique is a proven method for catching F1s, ide, big roach, and chub. Use a light float on your pole, feed regularly, and let your hookbait fall gently through the water. This approach can be more productive than racing to the bottom where fish may not be.
THE BEST FISHING POLES ARE ESSENTIAL FOR CONTROLLED PRESENTATION OF THE RIG
Go for light floats
A light slim bodied float is essential – a 4x10 for fishing on the bottom and a 3x8 for off the deck. They’re both Chianti-style patterns, with a carbon stem and a 2mm bristle, made by Dave Pearson.
PICKING THE RIGHT FLOAT FOR POLE FISHING WILL ALWAYS INCREASE YOUR SUCCESS
Use a big backshot
Roughly halfway between the float and pole-tip its really important to fix a large backshot, typically a BB. This keeps the line tight to the shot and absorbs any movement on the pole created by wind, keeping the rig ultra stable as any movement will effect the natural fall of the bait.
USING THE BEST POLE FISHING LINES WILL HELP SUPPORT BACKSHOT EFFECTIVELY
Side-hook the maggot
Rather than hook a maggot normally through the bottom of the maggot, Nick it on through it's side. This may looks odd, but maggots falls through the water sideways when they are loose fed, therefore by side hooking them maggot replicated the natural fall this helps to get bites quicker.
MAGGOTS ARE A HIGHLY EFFECTIVE BAIT, LEAN HOW TO USE THEM TO CATCH COMMERCIAL CARP
Loose groundbait
When using a skimmer line, opt for loose groundbait instead of cupping it in. The silty bottom of the lake will allow the loose groundbait to settle evenly, creating a more attractive feeding area for fish. However, be mindful of any current or wind that might influence how the groundbait disperses. If there's a noticeable undertow, a gentle squeeze can help hold the groundbait together and ensure it lands in your desired feeding area, creating a concentrated spot for fish to graze.
OUR GUIDE TO KNOWING YOUR GROUNDBAITS WILL HELP YOU MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICES
Keep firing bait in
Loosefeeding is crucial for this technique, especially when targeting species like ide and roach. These fish are often willing to feed in the upper layers of the water and can be caught effectively on the drop or at half depth using a shallow rig.
LOOSE FEEDING ACCURATELY REQUIRES THE BEST FISHING CATAPULTS
Use a bump bar
When fishing the long pole for skimmers, a bump bar is essential. It stabilises the pole, preventing movement of the rig and ensuring a consistent tight line to the backshot.
A BUMP BAR IS ONE OF THE BEST SEATBOX ACCESSORIES FOR EFFECTIVE FISHING
Give it a go
By applying these tips and techniques when targeting species like ide and roach with shallow rigs on your local commercial, you can significantly increase your chances of success.
GIVE CATCHING THROUGH THE WATER A TRY, OUR GUIDE TO 10 GREAT COMMERCIALS TO FLOAT FISH FOR SILVERS WILL GET YOU STARTED
