Need an insight into what tackle is used by some successful anglers abroad? We asked some of our experienced and highly respected anglers to give an insight into their own tackle choices. Unbiased, as they are not ‘sponsored anglers’, we simply asked what they use and why they use it. This week we look at Reels, lines and hooks…
Reels – For most of my fishing I use Daiwa Entoh Big Pit Reels. Again they were purchased with Grenville in mind. Prior to this and as a back up reel I use Shimano 8000 Baitrunners. To be honest they would be perfectly adequate for Molyneux. Most people seem to think that Big Pits automatically cast further (I am sure this is a macho thing). My reason for using big pits is that I find it quicker to reel in, and I like the feel of a larger reel.
Line – There are so many to choose from, and I am sure almost every person that replies will offer a different choice. I have tried a number of lines over the years, and have settled for a relatively unknown brand which can only be purchased from a few outlets in UK. It is called Awa Shima Ion Reflector. I use this in .32 diameter.
You will notice that I do not mention the b/s which I believe to be mostly made up by someone in the manufacturers offices. I prefer to buy line by the diameter, and find what I consider the right diameter for the job. Ion reflector does everything I want a line to do, it casts well, is soft supple, sinks well and is fairly abrasion resistant. The latter is not a concern at Molyneux as there is no weed and are almost no snags to contend with.
Hooks – Again hooks tend to be a personal choice, I settled upon Nash Fang hooks some years ago, they have a good rate of sharpness, I found previously that I threw away almost half of every pack I bought. This is not the case with Fang’s. Another feature I like is that they have a very good gauge (thickness of steel). This I feel is important if you need to turn or stop a fish, as there is less chance of hook slipping or sliding in carp’s mouth. Once in, it tends to stay put.
Wally Gibb – Fishery Manager at Molyneux
Reels – Shimano 10000XT MGS big pit reels. Again, these are to suit flourocarbon main line as the big diameter spool helps to reduce line twist and aid casting. Super light weight.
Line – 16lb Tiger flourocarbon line. I use flourocarbon in conjunction with a light lead (1-1.5oz) running rig set up which allows me to lay the line along the bottom, increases sensitivity and the heaviness of the line increases the bolt effect.
Hooks – size 5 E.S.P Curveshanks. I never use anything smaller than a size 5 as French carp have big mouths and anything smaller is easily ejected and can lead to hook pulls.
Duncan de Gruchy – Angling Lines regular
Reels – Use any good reel, Shimano and Daiwa are the 2 leaders because they last a long time and are very reliable. Some people would prefer a debrayable while others use normal long cast reel.
Line – Using the right line is very important, it’s the only link between you and the fish. Braid is dangerous whilst playing the fish if the tubing is too short and it causes a breakage, this is why it is banned almost everywhere.
A good mono is abrasion resistant, has a good knot strength and it casts well. Fluorocarbon line is very good too, it’s almost invisible and sinks like a stone in the bottom of the lake so is undetectable because it’s flat on the bottom.
Hooks – Avoid bent hooks, I find they give too much damage to the mouth. A wide open hook is better. Straight or curve point. The hook eye should be outside for fluoro or any stiff hook link; and inside for other material. Strong metal will not open during a hard fight. Barbless is better but the angler must keep a little pressure on during the whole fight. The famous mistake is to keep too much pressure on as that’s when you can lose the fish and the result is a long cut in the mouth, which is not what we want for a barbless hook.
Mehdi Daho – Owner of Laroussi and Old Oaks
Reels – A good quality reel, I use Shimano 10000XTE bait runner. Also pit reels Diawa (these hold a good capacity of line for casting)
Line – I use all the time 15lb b/s. .It is not necessary for any higher b/s but renew Line each visit abroad.
Hooks – Either Fox,Nash or Korda, different shapes for different circumstances but ensure they are sharp!
Peter Drayson – Angling Lines regular
Talking Carp Tackle, Part 1 – Carp Rods
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