Due to the time it can take for a bite to develop when fishing for carp or other specimen fish, one of the most essential items of kit an angler should have is a good bite alarm, or more commonly, because of the use of multiple rods, a set of alarms. They are invaluable when night fishing for carp but do come at a price, so what are the best bite alarms for fishing?
Alarm technology has come a very long way in a short space of time. Gone are the days when anglers would have big wires stretching from the alarm head back to the bivvy or shelter. Now many alarms can even be silent at the head end, with all the indications coming wirelessly to a receiver.
Whilst probably one of the more expensive tackle items for carp fishing, modern bite alarms do feature some impressive technology, with most being able to be adjusted to detect the slightest of indications, especially when paired with the best bobbins. Volume, tone and LED lighting colours are all things that are now customisable on the majority of alarms on the market, even budget carp fishing alarms of less than £50.
Best bite alarms at a glance:
Powering this vital tech has also been made significantly easier in recent years, with indications given for low battery and some options now even chargeable via USB or even controlled by a Bluetooth connection to the user's mobile phone. Here, we will run through the best bite alarms on the market so you can decide which is the one for you...
How we test the best bite alarms
These bite alarms were tested by experienced members of the Angling times team. We have been using and abusing alarms like these for decades and have probably used most, if not all of them during our time on the bank, so we know the best from the rest!
Tackle testers, James Furness, Aidan Bordiuk and Mark Sawyer have been testing a variety of alarms in varying scenarios to see how well they perform, in all weather conditions too we might add! Whether it be long range fishing, tackling runswaters or fishing for smaller species like tench and bream, these bite alarms have been thoroughly tested so we can give a rounded review!
Our decision process of what makes the best bite alarms takes into account various factors including price point, build quality, setting controls and usability to ensure we can give you the best advice on factors that will make an actual different to your angling.
The following list includes a mixture of our favourites for all types of fishing you are likely to encounter! Find out how we test our gear, HERE.
Best bite alarm for sensitivity
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The latest version of what is now an iconic carp fishing bite alarm. The Delkim TXI-D V2 features Delkim's highly developed vibration sensing tech, which is almost unrivalled in terms of sensitivity. These expensive alarms also feature an advanced security system, alerting the angler should they be tampered with at night, something we obviously hope is never needed.
The LEDs on the TXI-D V2 can be adjusted in terms of brightness with stealth mode and instant day-to-night settings.
Volume, tone and sensitivity can all be adjusted to suit the angler's needs, with the Delkim's classic and unique sound now being almost legendary in modern carp fishing.
Battery life is long on these alarms too, with low battery warnings and auto power down, alerting the user when it's time to boost the power. One of all Delkim's biggest selling points, however, is their durability. Despite their advanced technology, these little beauties can really take anything you throw at them, from torrential rain to heavy frosts.
Pros
- Unrivalled sensitivity.
- Incredibly durable in all weather conditions.
Cons
- LED colours are not adjustable, with popular colours often hard to get hold of.
The premier alarm in the Fox range and one of the best (and most expensive) options on the market, the Fox RX+ alarms are packed with features to improve their performance. New additions include deeper snag ears, adjustable LED colours (Red, Green, Blue, Orange, Purple and White), ergonomic sensitivity and volume/tone control.
We have used these alarms extensively over the past 12 month or so and we can see why they are so popular amongst a lot of the big names in angling now. They are really easy to operate, customisable down to what LED colour you want on any particular session and best of all, they are robust.
The sensitivity is great on these alarms, and you are able to go from a mosquito landing on your line giving you an indication to it taking around 30cm of line before you get an indication. This makes the alarms incredibly versatile, great if you are fishing to snags or with zigs and you need to know as soon as the fish has the hook in their mouth, or alternatively in windy conditions, you won't hear the alarm beeping every few seconds. Put simply these alarms will help you catch more fish!
While the chunky design isn't for everyone, we liked it and the bigger dials are really user friendly, perfect if you have any mobility issues with your hands or fingers as they make it really easy to adjust the settings (which is also great if you are cold and wet). The alarms also sound great, their HD sound is really noticeable and it just adds to the excitement when you get a run!
One thing we did notice was that the housing around the roller wheel looks to have been improved upon. This should hopefully reduce the chance of any grit or frost getting into the wheel which can prevent them turning.
Pros
- An alarm for all seasons, conditions and situations.
- Customisable LEDs.
Cons
- Larger than some other top-end alarms on the market.
Best classic bite alarm
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Steve Neville Alarms haven't changed much over the years and have remained a very popular cult classic and for good reason. These alarms are 100% weatherproof with a minimalist design and simple operating system, and they are an alarm for all conditions that can be used by new and seasoned anglers alike. Renowned for their reliability and great build quality, they have become a firm favourite of many top anglers over the years.
I have used these alarms myself for a few years now and the simplicity and timeless looks just suit my fishing. The alarms have great range of around 500m when used with the receiver and I particularly like the silent head setting that can be turned on by flicking the on switch up and down a couple of times. This is great when you are setting your bobbin and don't want to disturb other anglers or if like me, you prefer a more stealthy approach to your angling!
The roller wheel comes with 4 magnets as standard which in my opinion is a little too sensitive, but there are lots of aftermarket wheels that have two magnets on, that also come in a massive range of colours and designs if you want to personalise them a little. The white wheel being a firm favourite of the likes of Terry Hearn.
The receivers can accommodate a total of 5 alarms and are available in a choice of seven LED colours and three volume settings, so plenty of options to suit any angler!
The alarms are really simple to use, and super reliable! The battery life is great and they are incredibly weather resistant, they haven't failed me yet in snow, rain or baking hot conditions, although I am aware the wheel, like any other, can freeze up in extremely cold conditons. The only drawback is that the back requires a screwdriver to access if you need to change the battery, so keep an eye on that or have one in your bag!
Pros
- Simple to use.
- Strong and durable.
Cons
- Batteries require screwdriver to access.
If you're looking for an alarm that has the most modern technology and features, the Nash Siren R4 alarm is well worth your attention. Every eventuality has been thought of when designing and producing these alarms to make sure they can excel in any modern-day carp fishing scenario.
If you do a lot of boat fishing, there aren't many alarms better designed to help aid your angling! The R4 alarms have a homecoming feature on them, something we really liked and one of those additions that you wonder why you have never seen before, that although simple, really makes a difference. The Alarms have an LED on the back which can be illuminated via the receiver to help guide you back to the bank. This helps reduce light from your bivvy or head torch hitting the water and spooking fish, while making your fishing a lot safer and less complicated in the dark.
The alarms also have other smart technologies incorporated within them to eliminate false bleeps, whether fishing from the bank or a boat. The drift sense is perfect for anglers who fish rivers or canals where weed is likely to flow down and hit the line occasionally. Instead of this giving you a full blown take, the alarm will enable the line to move over a given distance before alerting you, hopefully giving time for the weed to fall off!
It also makes fishing afloat easier, especially if there is a lot of surface movement, as it allows the rods to move up and down with the boat without setting off the alarm. We were really impressed by this feature, it took us a little time to get used to it and setup but once it was, we can't see how it would be anything but a game changer!
While not everyone fishes from a boat, the amount of settings and adjustments you can make with these alarms means they will suit just about any angler in any scenario, what more can you ask for?
Pros
- Feature-packed, technically advanced.
- Perfect for boat fishing.
Cons
- Buttons rather than dials may not suit all anglers.
Best bite alarm receiver
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The Qi is the flagship model in the Wolf range of alarms, and for good reason. Designed and manufactured in Britain, the Wolf Icon Qi offers an incredible range of features that can't be found on any other alarms. Extensive testing has led to a sophisticated, very reliable product being made available to carpers worldwide.
The fully rechargeable battery boasts up to 1000 hours of standby time, whilst other features include a night light function and 7 adjustable LED colours. Vibration Detection system VDS and High Sensitivity Roller Wheel Detection (RWD) have created an environment where even the most minimal activity will be detected whilst also having the fail-safe of two methods of detection to ensure no indication will ever be missed.
The range of the receiver is up to 2km, now, we don't advocate being that far from your rods, but it demonstrates the strength of the transmission.
Pros
- Rechargeable battery.
- Strong receiver.
Cons
- Not the most discreet/visually pleasing alarms on the rests.
Best phone operated bite alarm
Whilst relative newcomers to the tackle market, the New Direction Tackle K9 alarms are certainly going to draw a lot of attention to the NDT stable. Not only are they full of smart tech, but they are also fully waterproof, giving full peace of mind to the angler.
This bite alarm is also fully customisable via a smartphone, by downloading the app, anglers can adjust LED colour, volume, brightness and sensitivity, which saves leaving the bivvy, especially in bad weather.
Another clever feature is the mute function. It allows the muting of the alarm for 30 seconds, so no need to turn the bite alarm off or annoy other anglers whilst adjusting the line and setting the bobbin. This also prevents the chance of forgetting to turn the alarm back on and missing a take whilst it's off, something we have all experienced before.
Pros
- Mute function is a real winner.
- Can be controlled from your mobile phone.
Cons
- Not the cleanest-looking alarms on the rests.
Best compact bite alarm
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You would be hard-pressed to find a carp angler that hadn't heard of the ATT alarm from Gardner. An alarm built on the premise of being simple yet robust and reliable enough to never fail an angler in any situation. 100% watertight, with no buttons and very little to go wrong, they have certainly achieved that.
Included with the alarms is an "intelligent" hardcase cover, not only there to provide protection but is also there as the means to turn the alarms on and off. As the cover is removed, the alarms go live, as the cover is replaced, the alarms are put to sleep.
Indications are registered on the receiver and the wheel can be changed to light up a custom colour giving it a unique look compared to other alarms, they don't make any sound. The alarms are ultra-compact, some of the smallest available, yet still packed with all the features you would come to expect from a modern alarm.
Pros
- Very compact.
- Ultra reliable.
Cons
- With no sound at the alarm head, you need to make sure you don't forget your receiver.
Best bite alarm for features
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The premium offering from Prologic is their R2L alarm. A totally waterproof alarm, it is built for the most adverse weather conditions, with features included for even the most demanding sessions.
Utilising a unique infra-red light and roller wheel system, the most minimal movement (2mm) on the line can be detected, ideal for use when fishing to snags or using zigs when indications can be very subtle. Snag ears are built into the alarms, which increase their versatility, a simple screw mechanism allows the ears to be lifted up out of the head, so no additional ears are required.
Two LEDs are incorporated, with their own dedicated function, with one for drop-back bites and one for takes, giving the angler all the information of what is going on with their rigs. The memory function on the receiver will also highlight which rod has given out an indication should you have missed it, so you're always aware of what's happening out in the pond.
Pros
- Customisable snag ears built in.
- Infra-red technology for sensitive bite detection.
Cons
- Relatively large alarms in comparison to others on the market.
Best value bite alarm set
Feature-packed with lots of clever little tech additions, the Carp Spirit HD5 alarm punches way above its price point.
As expected, the case is weatherproof and includes a nightglow function that illuminates the alarms for ease of use in the darkness and makes the setup look pretty cool!
The alarms have receiver compatibility up to a range of 150m and a vibration function that, when used in conjunction with the silent setting on the alarm, allows for a total stealth approach where required. All settings such as volume, tone and sensitivity can be controlled via dials on the alarm, which are then saved by the memory function within, so once you have them set up to your preference, they don't need to be recalibrated every trip.
To make the alarms suitable for every eventuality, they come with rubberised rod support and an extra long thread to allow snag ears and bobbins to be fitted with ease, perfect when that extra security is needed when fishing to weed or snags.
Pros
- Memory function saves your preferred settings.
- Remote range self-testing means receiver is reliable.
Cons
- Incorporated snag ears would have been nice.
What to look out for when buying a bite alarm
All bite alarms perform the same function, and whether you spend £10 or £300 on one, they will all register a bite. However, the more expensive alarms have more features, are fully waterproof and will last much longer than cheaper options thanks to their construction.
If you are an angler that usually does day sessions with the odd overnight trip now and again, there is no need to spend a fortune, budget alarms are fantastic quality and will be up to the job perfectly. If, however, you go in all weathers and for longer periods, it's best to look for a waterproof alarm with reliable sensitivity settings so even in the worst conditions, you can fish effectively.
All quality alarms will allow some level of adjustment to volume, tone and sensitivity as standard. So the choice really depends on how precise with these settings you want to go. LEDs on many alarms nowadays are now adjustable, too, so you can have the whole set in matching colours or chop and change so you can identify each rod easily.
One of the essentials for modern-day bite alarms is the facility for a receiver. This means the angler can turn the alarm down at the head for stealthier fishing and keep the receiver by their side so they never miss a bleep. All receivers these days are wireless, yet some vary in range and signal strength.
Alarms Glossary
LED: Light emitting diode, this will light up when you get an indication on a bite alarm.
Roller Wheel: A small wheel in or on the alarm head where the line sits. When the line is moved, the wheel moves in conjunction with it, triggering the audio and visual cues of the alarm.
Bobbin: Small plastic or metal item that clips on the line to keep tension on it.
Snag Ears: Strong metal bars that can be mounted on your bite alarms in order to keep your rod secure, preventing it from being dragged off the rest.
Receiver: An electrical box that wirelessly connects to the bite alarm. It provides audio signals to alert the user to a bite.
Sensitivity: A setting on a bite alarm that alters the amount the mechanism must move to trigger an indication.
Tone: A setting on the alarm that will alter how the alarm sounds.
Bite alarm FAQs
How do you set up a fishing bite alarm?
Setting an alarm up couldn't be simpler. There is a metal screw thread at the base of the alarm head, which attaches to either a bank stick or pod system. Your rod then sits on top of the alarm, with the line running over the detection mechanism, which is generally a wheel or plate, depending on the manufacturer. A bobbin indicator is clipped between the alarm and the reel to create some tension to emphasise line movement.
What do all the settings do on a bite alarm?
Modern alarms tend to come with a variety of settings such as sensitivity, volume, tone and the ability to vary LED colour.
Changing the colour is purely for aesthetic reasons and won't affect how the alarm performs. Some anglers choose to have their alarms in different colours so they can identify which rod has a bite during the hours of darkness.
Tone and volume merely change the sound and volume the alarm makes. Tone can make your alarms more identifiable to you depending on how you set them up. Volume is personal preference, with some people choosing to have their alarms silent and others at full volume if they struggle to hear them.
Sensitivity is the only setting that directly impacts how an alarm performs. By adjusting the sensitivity, you are determining how much movement is required to trigger the alarm. Some anglers opt for the highest setting, meaning a minimal amount of movement is needed, in particularly windy conditions, a low sensitivity setting can eliminate any annoying false bleeps.
What is a bite alarm receiver and do I need one?
A receiver is an electronic box with LEDs and a speaker that works the same as your bite alarm. Once they have been connected, every bleep on your alarm will transmit to your receiver. They are particularly useful if you are set up in a swim where the rods are quite far away, you struggle to hear, or you have to step a safe distance away from the rods. Some offer a vibrating function, a great way of alerting people who are deaf they have got a bite.
What is a bite alarm?
A bite alarm is an electronic item of fixing tackle that is designed to alert anglers via a beeping noise that they have a fish on the end. Primarily used for night fishing, they come in various designs and have various settings on them such as volume and sensitivity.
Do I need a bobbin for a bite alarm?
While you don't necessarily need a bobbin indicator for a bite alarm they do help improve their ability to register a bite. The bobbin helps keep the line tight over the roller wheel and also gives you a visual indicator. The do help register drop back bites as without them, there would be no weight to pull the line back over the wheel.
Author Aidan Bordiuk is an enthusiastic angler who enjoys all fishing disciplines from match fishing to beach casting. He is currently occupying the position of Commercial Content Writer at Angling Times.