Fishing For Carp Using Method Feeder Tactics

It surprises me just how many carp anglers don't use the method more often when fishing for carp. Maybe it's the thought that the method is associated with catching only the smaller fish, rather than the bigger carp. In fact, method fishing tactics can produce some huge carp in the right situations, and when using good method fishing tactics to outwit the biggest fish in the lake. I often use the method for many of my fishing sessions. If I have 3 rods out, I will commonly have at least one on the method as I fish for carp.

I find that a good method mix will give off huge amounts of attraction but without the problem of over-feeding the carp in the swim. When using heavy particles or boilies, it can be hard to determine how much bait to put out without overdoing it and feeding the carp. The method helps to keep the carp in the swim for longer periods. I want the carp to be attracted into the swim, but still be hungry enough to try grabbing a mouthful of my hook bait every time I cast in. If they're full up on heavy boilies they'll be more inclined to move on.

Method Angling Tactics

There are a few fishing tactics I try when using the method to catch carp. When I have chosen my swim, I always like to start off by catapulting out 5-10 small method balls before I even get the rods out or the bivvy up. This will give the method mix a chance to start attracting the fish into the area, and search around for food items without any end tackle in the swim. I think carp will relax and feed more readily if they can freely mooch and bash the method balls around without finding any rigs or end tackle inside them. This tactic often gets the fish in a feeding frenzy and ready to pounce on a hook bait as soon as it enters the water.

Once they have had an hour or so of free method balls to play with, I like to place out a method rig with a hook bait on the outskirts of where the main balls have been placed. If carp have been feeding in a certain area, I don't want to spoil it by splashing a huge method ball on top of them. I much prefer to let them come to the bait so they'll be less suspicious when they approach it. They will treat it like all the other "rig free" balls they've encountered over the last hour.

Another tactic I often use is to place a rigged method ball out discretely when the fish are not around. To do this I simply fire out a few 18mm boilies seconds before casting the method out. This helps to move any fish away just for a moment before the big method ball hits the water. The boilies often move them because they haven't been feeding on them like the method balls so they'll initially move away as they drop through the water. This way I wont spook them, plus, the method and lines will also be settled on the bottom by the time the carp swim back into the area.

I often prefer to use a balanced hook bait on my method rig as it will fly into a carp's mouth much easier. Remember, a method mix contains small, light particles and crumbs, therefore, carp may not need to suck hard at the bait when they disturb the method ball. I want to give the hook bait every chance to enter the mouth, and a light, buoyant bait will fly into its mouth even under the slightest suction pressure.

The Different Types of Method Mixes Available

Method mixes for carp fishing are cheap baits to make up and very versatile, plus, they can help you to catch more carp if the correct mix is used to suit the fishing situation. There are numerous types of powdered mixes available with varying flavours, colours, attractants, and coarseness to suit different fishing styles.

There are different powder method mixes which will suit different situations. For instance, if you require a mix that will allow you to cast further distances, then you'll need a very fine powder that sticks well to the method feeder. This is where you'll want to use fine bread crumb, along with a 50/50 boilie base mix. Using a boilie base mix can also be a great idea because they include all the nutrients and attractants. I would also use juice from cooked particle when adding liquid as this contains sugars that make the mix sticky. A sticky method mix helps it to hold onto the method for longer periods in the water so it disguises the feeder inside from the fish.

If you wanted a coarse mix that will break down quickly, then you can use scalded pellets, and add more oils so it's less sticky. Although, make sure the pellets are not high oil first, as adding even more oil may spoil the attraction of the method mix.

The best thing about using the method to catch carp is you can change the mix at any time to create a unique smell to attract carp, or if they seem to wise up to the first mix. I do this by adding different ingredients like:

Fish oils Crushed hemp

Spices

Tuna in oil

Vitalin

Groats

Tinned fruits

Cat food

Powdered milk - great for causing a bright cloud!

Liver powder

Cocoa powder

Fruit juices

Molasses

Maggots or casters

Method rig types

I like to use hooklinks about 5-7 inches long. However, I will experiment with shorter or longer lengths if I struggle to get any takes. I mostly use supple braid for many links, and I feel a supple type is best as it can be sucked into the mouth easily. I have used a stiff type of link and caught on them, but I feel the stiffness could hinder the hook turning, and thus affect the hooking potential of the rig when it enters the mouth.

I prefer to use smallish hooks with small, or cut down boilies, or preferably small particle items that are present in the method mix. This means the carp wont think anything suspicious rather than if it seen a big, bright boilie that is totally different to all the method mix particles. Although, I never rule out using this method tactic as it can work in some angling situations.

Wayne Mcgregor has had years of experience fishing for carp in the UK. He has caught carp from many types of lakes and pools around England. His website reveals tons of ideas and tactics on how to catch more carp.

http://www.carp-fishing-tactics.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Wayne_Mcgregor

The Method

One of the most important carp rigs in an anglers armoury

What Is The Method? The Method basically consists of an inline cage or frame feeder covered in groundbait, fished with a short hooklink of between 2 and 6 inches. There are a few variations on the actual feeders themselves (mainly elasticated and non-elasticated) but we would only recommend the use of the non-elasticated type. The main reasons for this are

1. They are safer for fish. 2. They are less likely to break.

How Do I Set It Up

Part of the beauty of fishing this technique is its simplicity. This enables it to be set up very quickly which is most likely down to the fact that it was developed by match anglers. All you need to complete the rig once your reel line is threaded through your rod is:

The method feeder A swivel

Your hooklink, complete with hook

Step 1.You start by sliding the method feeder onto your main line (making sure you have pulled the swivel out of the bottom) and then tie the swivel onto your line. After that, pull the feeder down your line and push the swivel back into the bottom of the feeder. The feeder is now attached, so you can tie your hooklink onto the other end of the swivel and hey presto, One method rig.

The next thing to do is grab your bucket of groundbait and the hook bait of your choice. Squeeze the groundbait around the feeder, a general rule of thumb for fishing the method is:

The deeper the water the harder you squeeze the ball of groundbait.

This is because you want the feeder to retain at least some of the groundbait after you have cast out to act as an attractant to fish. One of the most common mistakes of people fishing the method is that they don't squeeze the groundbait hard enough or their mix is too dry, so it comes off either during the cast or on impact after casting.

Ideally your groundbait mix should still be fluffy, it should stick together when given a gentle squeeze, yet brake up when pinched.

What NextOkay, so now you bait up your hook. At this point you can either bury your hook into the ball of groundbait or you can leave it hanging down, after much debate we all agree that it makes no difference, although it is worth trying both ways on your local venue.

Next you squeeze your groundbait around the feeder and cast it out, trying to hit the same area each time you cast. You can either put your rod to the side and fish quiver tip style (you don't need a quiver tip). Otherwise you can point you rod straight out and use a swinger and bite alarm set up. Either way a baitrunner is practically essential as the bites will nearly rip your rod off the rest at most places.

The Method

Fishing the Method

What is "The Method"? The Method is the name given to a type of fishing whereby a mixture of groundbait and particles is moulded around a special weight which is in the form of a cage allowing a bed of bait to be placed on the bottom in the middle of which lies your hookbait. It has accounted for some astounding catches of carp and is well worth giving it a try. Although often associated with catching smaller fish, it has been known to fool a few larger specimens as well and can certainly give a great days sport when the carp get feeding on it.

How the Method works

So, how does it work? The way I like to fish it is with a Ritchworth Method Feeder mounted as a sliding weight above a bead and swivel, and a fairly short hooklength. I tend to stick to a fairly small hook size, usually about a size 8 or 10, onto which I mount either one or two pieces of sweetcorn, or a small hair rigged boilie. I like to use a pop-up so that my hook bait sits just above the bed of groundbait. It works very much like an ordinary feeder except that the mix is moulded around the outside of the cage and so doesn't have to come out of the feeder. It dissolves on contact with the water, and the secret is in getting the mix just right so that it doesn't explode on impact but falls to the bottom and then starts to break up. Once the carp start feeding on it they will even attack it as soon as it lands on the bottom.

Get the Method mix right

If you get the mix right, you can add particles to it, which can include whatever you are using as hook bait, although some anglers prefer to use small particles and a slightly larger hookbait so that it stands out and is likely to be taken quicker. I usually press my hookbait in to the groundbait mix so that it is right in with it when it reaches the lake bed. This has the added advantage of leaving a bit of slack line between hook and weight, so that when the fish moves off with your bait, it feels no initial resistance, but is soon in contact with the lead, having a bolt rig effect.

Sometimes it will take a few initial casts to get a bit of bait onto the bottom and for the carp to move in on it. Some specially prepared Method Mixes contain strong attractors and this will often bring the carp in fairly quickly. Of course other species are likely to move in as well, and you may want to use a slightly larger or harder hookbait if this happens. Usually though the activity of the smaller fish will merely attract the carp as they move in to see what all the fuss is about. Once the carp start to feed they will find the small particles in with it and begin hoovering up, stirring up the bottom as they do so. This can often result in some fairly frenzied activity as they begin competitive feeding, and the results can be spectacular. I have even known carp to be seen heading towards the swim as the bait hits the waters surface, and they know it's feeding time. If your bait is right in the middle of this, then expect some fun.

Alan Kirk recommends the following for fishing the method

The best rig for the method has got to bevitalin round a fox feeder and a glugged asassin-8boilie. Snakebite hooklinks and a long length of tubing above the rig. Chuck this out with no freebies and you will catch. If you want extra attraction then pour a bit of asassin-8 dip on the vitalin. A carp in the net is guaranteed, 15 carp in 5 sessions says it all.

Alan Kirk gives us another tip, his "choco-chip method"

what you do is put a ball of vitalin on your feeder (fox) then stick 5-6 pellets inside the method but all of the pellets sticking out. Then have a 22mm pellet as hook bait. I call it this because it looks like a fat chocolate chip cookie with all the 22mm pellets hanging out!!!

Carp fishing tips (Method rig) Top method to get your bait on the right spot

To optimise the chances of catching a good number of carp on these waters a good supply of ground bait and attractors is needed to get and hold the attention of the roving and feeding carp.

Good beds of ground bait to my special formula and ample free offerings of the hook baits helps to generate a spell of frenzied feeding and then the accurate placement of bait and hook is critical. To achieve this the Method feeder is a distinctly useful part of the way to fish for these carp. Hook baits can be the same as any free offering within the ground bait or can be your boilies.

The make and style of the feeders is not to critical, what is important is that they provide a good frame to hold a good amount of ground bait and strong enough to with stand the rigours of casting and the stoney bottom of the lakes. Typical types to bring and use are the Middy frame feeder or the Korda Method feeder, both of which are of the better style to take the punishment. Richworth or Fox feeders are also useable.The rig shown here is fairly straight forward in that the feeder could be anyone of the types suggested above.

Typical style method feeder from Middy

The important elements other than the feeder itself are the reel line which needs to be at least 10lbs BS mono or braid, to withstand the casting.

The hook link can be the same as the reel line, 10lb BS mono or Braid or you can use any of the modern hook link material used in carp fishing, Snakeskin or the like.

Good strong hook patterns are important, the can be Fox Series 2, ESP Raptor's or Korda Wide Gape. Whilst barbless are preferable, barbed hooks can be used.

Anti tangle tubing and lead core leaders can both help with preventing tangle on the cast and with preventing line bites as the carp forage amongst the ground bait.

John BateMethod Feeder Tactics when Fishing for Carp

 

It surprises me just how many carp anglers don’t use the method more often when fishing for carp. Maybe it’s the thought that the method is associated with catching only the smaller fish, rather than the bigger carp. In fact, method fishing tactics can produce some huge carp in the right situations, and when using good method fishing tactics to outwit the biggest fish in the lake. I often use the method for many of my fishing sessions. If I have 3 rods out, I will commonly have at least one on

the method as I fish for carp.

I find that a good method mix will give off huge amounts of attraction, but without the problem of over-feeding the carp in the swim. When using heavy particles or boilies, it can be hard to determine how much bait to put out without overdoing it and feeding the carp. The method helps to keep the carp in the swim for longer periods. I want the carp to be attracted into the swim, but still be hungry enough to try grabbing a mouthful of my hook bait every time I cast in. If they’re full up on heavy boilies they’ll be more inclined to move on.

Method Angling Tactics

There are a few fishing tactics I try when using the method to catch carp. When I have chosen my swim, I always like to start off by catapulting out 5-10 small method balls before I even get the rods out or the bivvy up. This will give the method mix a chance to start attracting the fish into the area, and search around for food items without any end tackle in the swim. I think carp will relax and feed more readily if they can freely mooch and bash the method balls around without finding any rigs or end tackle inside them. This tactic often gets the fish in

a feeding frenzy and ready to pounce on a hook bait as soon as it enters the water.

Once they have had an hour or so of free method balls to play with, I like to place out a method rig with a hook bait on the outskirts of where the main balls have been placed. If carp have been feeding in a certain area, I don’t want to spoil it by splashing a huge method ball on top of them. I much prefer to let them come to the bait so they’ll be less suspicious when they approach it. They will treat it like all the other “rig free” balls they’ve encountered over the last hour. Another tactic I often use is to place a rigged method ball out discretely when the fish are not around. To do this I simply fire out a few 18mm boilies seconds before casting the method out. This helps to move any fish away just for a moment before the big method ball hits the water. The boilies often move them because they haven’t been feeding on them like the method balls so they’ll initially move away as they drop through the water. This way I wont spook them, plus, the method and lines will also be settled on the bottom by the time the carp swim back into the area.

I often prefer to use a balanced hook bait on my method rig as it will fly into a carp’s mouth much easier. Remember, a method mix contains small, light particles and crumbs, therefore, carp may not need to suck hard at the bait when they disturb the method ball. I want to give the hook bait every chance to enter the mouth, and a light, buoyant bait will fly into its mouth even under the slightest suction pressure.

The Different Types of Method Mixes Available

Method mixes for carp fishing are cheap baits to make up and very versatile, plus, they can help you to catch more carp if the correct mix is used to suit the fishing situation. There are numerous types of powdered mixes available with varying flavours, colours, attractants, and coarseness to suit different fishing styles.

There are different powder method mixes which will suit different situations. For instance, if you

require a mix that will allow you to cast further distances, then you’ll need a very fine powder that sticks well to the method feeder. This is where you’ll want to use fine bread crumb, along with a 50/50 boilie base mix. Using a boilie base mix can also be a great idea because they include all the nutrients and attractants. I would also use juice from cooked particle when adding liquid as this contains sugars that make the mix sticky. A sticky method mix helps it to hold onto the method for longer periods in the water so it disguises the feeder inside from the fish.

If you wanted a coarse mix that will break down quickly, then you can use scalded pellets, and add more oils so it’s less sticky. Although, make sure the pellets are not high oil first, as adding even more oil may spoil the attraction of the method mix.

The best thing about using the method to catch carp is you can change the mix at any time to create a unique smell to attract carp, or if they seem to wise up to the first mix. I do this by adding different ingredients like:

Fish oils Crushed hemp Spices Tuna in oil Vitalin Groats Tinned fruits Cat food Powdered milk – great for causing a bright cloud! Liver powder Cocoa powder Fruit juices Molasses Maggots or casters

Method rig types

I like to use hooklinks about 5-7 inches long. However, I will experiment with shorter or longer lengths if I struggle to get any takes. I mostly use supple braid for many links, and I feel a supple type is best as it can be sucked into the mouth easily. I have used a stiff type of link and caught on them, but I feel the stiffness could hinder the hook turning, and thus affect the hooking potential of the rig when it enters the mouth.

I prefer to use smallish hooks with small, or cut down boilies, or preferably small particle items that are present in the method mix. This means the carp wont think anything suspicious rather than if it seen a big, bright boilie that is totally different to all the method mix particles. Although, I never rule out using this method tactic as it can work in some angling situations.

Bolt Rig Basics - Method Feeder

by Steve Lightfoot 

While I'm at it might as well include the Method. A method feeder is basicaly a frame around which groundbait is packed into a ball. The rig is constructed in the same way as an inline bolt rig (see here ) , substituting the feeder for the weight.

I'm using the korda ( before anyone asks no I don't work for them ) method feeder, since it has a the right size clip socket for my swivels.

So, thread it together as per an inline lead

And clip the swivel into the socket at the bottom end of the feeder to create the semi-fixed bolt rig setup.

Job done

COMPONENTS I've checked their site and while Wacker Bait don't have Korda feeders, the Fox and Anchor method feeder are available and work in exactly the same way. All other components I've used are available there as well ( no I don't work for them either! ) incuding safety bolt rig kits, tubing and inline leads. Its well worth checking with them about getting the correct size swivels for individual method feeders. Size 8 swivels are usualy the right size for inline leads in my experience.

In-line Method feeder rig for carp, bream and tench

By Gofishing.co.uk

Feeder rigs

28 May 2008 12:12

The Method feeder is a devastating item of tackle for the commercial carp angler as it not only attracts fish to the swim, but it’s easy to use and easy to catch fish with!To create this rig you’ll need to thread an in-line Method feeder upon your strong mainline – between 8lb and 12lb is ideal. Next thread a small bead onto your mainline and tie on a strong swivel.

The hooklength you will need should be very short and very robust, again between 8lb and 12lb breaking strain line is ideal. And an ideal length would be between 3in and 6in, because the bait needs to be presented as close as possible to the feeder.Ideal baits for fishing the Method ought to be the best baits being used on the venue at the time, so ask the venue owner or regulars before you arrive to give you an idea of what to use for the best results.

Groundbait to mould around the feeder is quite important as not all groundbaits work. Ideally choose a specific Method Mix as these groundbaits bind together well and will therefore stick to the frame of the feeder.

You’ll need to mix the groundbait with a little water then take a small handful and press it into the frame of the feeder. Then, using both hands, squeeze a little more groundbait around the frame so that it is completely hidden by the mix. Don’t overfill the feeder as you’ll struggle to cast it out.

The best rods for this style of fishing are either power feeder rods or 2.5lb test curve carp rods.

The key to a good Method Feeder session – as with all forms of feeder fishing – is to consistently hit the same spot to build up a bed of bait that the carp will be drawn to.

 

 

A Use the best baits on the venue at the time you’re fishing. Ring first and you’ll get the right info!B Use a very short and strong hooklength as bites can be savage when fishing the Method. A 3-6in length of 8-12lb line or braid will be perfect.C A snap link swivel will allow you to tie two or three hooklength and bait them up when you are waiting for a take. Then, after landing a fish you’ll be able to release the old hooklength and clip on a new one quickly and easily.D Remember to use a bead to absorb the shock of the feeder on the swivel knot during casting.E In-Line Method Feeders are best because if your line snaps the fish can pull the rig free from the heavy weight.F Remember to use a specific Method Mix for your groundbait as it will bind to the feeder correctly and stick to it during the cast.G Your mainline will need to be tough enough to stand up to the pressure of fishing this technique – 8lb to 12lb mainline is best.

The CARP FISHING GUIDE Saves you Time and Money.Method Feeder

 I first started using this method about 4 to 5 years ago. I was fishing on a small local syndicate water with quite a few match angles in the syndicate. At the time I was catching most of my carp on sbs pepparami pellet shaped boilies as boilies were barred and using low oil

Halibut pellets as feed, as it was summer time. The one morning I was watching a match angler casting a ball of ground bait out and thought he’s on method feeder and he was. He was also bagging some nice mid double figure carp more than me. So it was off to quality baits for some method mix that I had seen there before and then off to fosters of Birmingham to get some method feeders. The feeders I ended up with were the Fox ones as they seemed more robust and that they would hold the ground bait better on the cast.I was back, fully armed and couldn’t wait to give it a go.

I fished the method feeder on one rod to try it, out and within a few minutes hitting the water my indicator was going mental and the rod tip was bouncing so I waited poised over the rod as the carp was rolling my method feeder around the bottom, I knew the take wasn’t far away and off it went like a steam train in the shape of an 18lb common a good fish for the water I ended up with a fish in around 4 to 5 hours not bad as 6 of them came to the method feeder.

Remember you need to keep casting to the same spot to keep the carp competing against each other. When there is a lot of fish in the swim you have to feed some method ground bait balls into the swim start of with the same size balls as you are using on the method as the carp will see your method feeder smaller or larger and class it as danger so keep them the same size. After a few sessions I fished on a shallow bar about 2ft deep the method feeder would hit the surface and I could see baw waves coming towards it this meant (carp dinner balls)

I just couldn’t fail as word got around they barred the method feeder. Me being a bit of a stroke puller decided to stiffen the mix and wrap it around my lead and carried on bagging all summer. My rigs were checked regular as I wasn’t to be trusted I had to keep it low key.

I didn’t rejoin the syndicate I went on to Broadwater and this was not method water as there was a lot of tench. I love ground bait in any shape of form but haven’t used it much since; it is well worth a try on heavily stocked waters with plenty of competitive carp.I will be showing you the rig to use with devastating effect in my rig section. The ground bait I use will be in the ground bait section.

The “Method” Carp Rig

The ‘Method' as it is known, is a rig that incorporates a frame which essentially can have bait moulded around it. The idea is to have a nice, neat pile of food right by the hook bait. As the bait is moulded firmly on to the frame, the fish have to attack it to get the food off, and because they are competing to get the food, they don't check the rig out. In locations where the method has been used before, the fish hear the splash of the feeder as the “ringing of a dinner bell” and home in to it like a shoal of piranhas.

 

A Fox inline method feeder the fin design holds the bait on even on the hardest of casts, making them perfect for long distance work.

The ‘Method' was first developed on the match circuit in this country where it was designed to catch carp quickly in heavily stocked carp/match lakes. Most importantly it worked! The Match anglers using it won almost all their matches with colossal weights. Right from the moment the feeder touched the bottom of the lake the carp where on to it. After taking the match circuit by storm, specimen carp anglers started to use the “method” with great success.

Ideally it is best to use the ‘Method' Carp Rig on carp waters with plenty of fish when the weather is warm. This is so that the carp actively compete for the food on the feeder. Although it also works well on sparsely stocked waters as it draws attention much like a PVA bag, with one difference, wet/water based baits can be put on to the ‘Method' feeder. When using the ‘Method' Carp Rig I advise that you re-cast in the same spot regularly. This helps to build up the swim and keep pulling those fish into your location.

In my experience I have found that Bolt Rigs whether they are inline or made to hang on the side, hook more fish then Running Rigs or Startle Rigs. I feel the reason for this maybe that the fish aren't moving far from the feeder. They hit the feeder grab what they can and then hit it again.

With a bolt rig the fish hook themselves causing them to spook and shoot off. A short hair rig should be used to present the hook bait right by the feeder.

When it comes to using the ‘Method' Rig, there is nothing complicated about loading the ‘method' feeder, as long as what you are putting on it isn't too soft or too stiff. Ideally you should : -

•  Mould some of your chosen mix around the feeder and really squeeze it on so that it is rock hard

•  Push your baited hook into the edge of this layer

•  Add another layer of your mix but don't squeeze it on as hard this time because this will break up when the feeder hits bottom leaving your hook bait on top.

•  Shape your feeder to be as aerodynamic as you can, this will make accurate casting easier and ensure the feeder flies straight.

There are many mixes available that work particularly well on the ‘Method' Rig. Pellets, Vitalin and ready-made method mixes are usually used. If you want to use pellets on the method feeder you need small pellets. I use 2.3mm carp/ betaine pellets, this is because they mould easier on to the feeder. First of all put the pellets into a bucket and slowly add boiling water, be careful here as you will only need a small amount of water. The pellets should start going a bit soft and when you squeeze them together they should stick. If they crumble rather than stick you will need to add more water, however if they fall apart then you have used too much water, and it's a simple as that! You can also prepare Vitalin in much the same way.

In your method mixes you can add whatever you want ,for example samples of your hook bait will work well, as will small particle baits like hemp. Over the last few years I have been playing around with method mixes a fair bit and so far I have found this mix by far the best :-

For approximately a 1kg mix

•  400grams of method mix,

•  150grams of sinking pellets,

•  hand full of crushed floating pellets,

•  200grams of vitalin ,

•  A hand full of corn,

•  100grams of oats,

•  100 grams of ready brek ,

•  I mix this up with hot milk and sweet corn juice,

As hook bait I use corn, 10mm boilies , or pellets although with the way carp compete when attacking the method I am sure they would take almost anything. I have even heard of people catching on a cold potato chip!

I just want to add a quick bit about tackle requirements before I finish this piece. A loaded method feeder will weigh about 3oz maybe more and if you plan on using the ‘Method' Rig then make sure your gear is up to it! Rods with a test curve of at least 2½lb should be used otherwise you will stress the backbone of the rod leading to a break later on. Line of 12lb breaking strain is the lowest

strength required, otherwise you will be losing your rigs when the line cracks. However if you plan to cast a method feeder a long way then you will have no choice but to use lighter lines. In this case use a shock leader line only on the end of your line nearest your rig.

Quick Change Leadcore Inline Set Up

These leadcore leaders are interchangeable between inline leads, inline stone weights, method feeders and lead clips. This set up means you wont have to create new leadcore leaders for all of these fishing tactics, for example, you can quickly change from inline lead to using a method feeder by only having to tie a few knots.

The benefits of using the quick change inline leadcore system is that it saves you time and effort enabling you to relax more and enjoy you carp fishing session.

In the pouch above I have numerous inline leadcore leaders pre-tied. Most have a lead clip on them for easier storage, rather than packing them away with a big lead or method on them. The clips will easily slide off and changed over to another fishing method within seconds. I also make sure to have a selection of different colours available, see in the photo below.

Different colours of pre-tied leadcore leaders to choose from. Select the one that best blends in with the colour of the lake bed. I have Weed green, Silt black and Black & White Fleck to choose from.

** You must remember to make sure the lead, method or stone can freely slide over the knot that connects the leadcore to your mainline. This is so a carp can get rid of the weight should the mainline break during a fight! **

The lead clip pulls off the swivel with a little force and enables me to completely remove the lead clip from the leadcore. I can now slide on an inline method feeder, inline stonze weight or inline leads.

Now thread on any carp fishing tactic you wish to use. In the photo I show how to create an inline lead with leadcore material.

Always make sure you use the correct swivel that was designed for the inline lead brand you use!

Here I thread on a Korda inline method feeder. This only takes a few seconds to change over.

 

Using the inline leadcore leader with inline Stonze lead systems. these can be used as free running rigs or, as shown in the above photo, as semi-fixed.

These quick change systems can be adapted to use any method of inline system for catching carp, here I change over to an inline liquid attractor lead. This can be a great carp fishing tactic when fishing for carp on single hook baits.

Once I have chosen my preferred carp fishing method I quickly tie the loop of the leadcore leader to my mainline.

Now my new carp rig is ready to target those big carp, fingers crossed!

Carp method feeder advice

Howard Hutchins14-03-2010, 11:52 AMHave been swotting online about method feeder rigs,and wondered about your views,as have spotted conflicting advice on leadcore leaders.

just watched a Korda Bit Hit carp DVD with a guy using the method,withleadcore to a swivel pushed into the feeder,and a short hooklink,from other end of swivel.(says to pin down the line behind)

Thought yeah looks good may try it.Never used leadcore,but looking at a bag of three leadcore leaders i boughtfrom "the fishing bag" the instructions say,Do Not Under Any Circumstances,use a swivel to attatch the leader to the main line.

So wonder why,Bad news one end,but ok on the other.Just curious?? Is it for fish safety,orleadcore probs tied to swivels.

Any other method tips,gratefully recieved.

regards Howard

Ian Crook14-03-2010, 12:54 PMHoward, the reason to never attach to your mainline to the lead core via a swivel is because it will not allow your method feeder, weight, etc to be released should your mainline break, creating what is called a "death rig".

These days however, it is also recognised that leaving leadcore attached to a fish is unwise, it could easilly get snagged causing the fish to potentially tear it's mounth i panic in order to release itself from the hook. Personally I think if you have a responsible BS hooklink, it would break the hooklink first.......but hey ho.

The PC way of using leadcore nowadays is via a helicopter or chod rig set-up. If you search either on google you will find plenty of info. The standard helicopter is for most presentations whereas the chod rig is just for fishing pop-ups or bouyant baits.

Howard Hutchins14-03-2010, 07:04 PMIan, many thanks,i googled the question,but could find no real answer.

Another googled question i got no definitive answer from.was what B/S line for the method,without suffering break-offs.

Though have never used the method,was thinking of 12lb mono,but not sure if strong enough for long casts,but anything stronger would mean (i think) lessdistance,if needed.So then thought,shock leader,again having never used or tied one,wouldprefer not to,if 12 mono is capable. Any thoughts on this.

regards Howard

Peter Littleworth14-03-2010, 07:23 PMDepends how big your feeder and load is, a large method feeder and bait can easily weigh 5/6oz, too heavy for long range work, it can pay off big time to keep the actual feeder weight down, an ounce is adequate, with a bait load of 2/3oz, and with that 12lb BS will be fine. Use a flying backlead and a rubber stop up the line, instead of leadcore. Regular, accurate casting is the key, same spot every cast. Peter

Rich Walker20-03-2010, 03:56 PMTo create a safe rig first slide the tail rubber from the method feeder onto the leadcore then slide a swivel with ring onto the leadcore so the ring is running on the leadcore. Next pass the leadcore through the method feeder and attach to the swivel that is pushed into the bottom of the feeder. Now slide the ring down to the feeder and push the tail rubber a tiny bit on so that the swivel can still spin freely but the rubber can pull off easily. You now have a safe lead core rig. If the mainline snaps then the hooklink can slide on the ring up the leader and off thus preventing the fish from dragging a large length of leadcore about.

Ian Crook20-03-2010, 04:59 PMHoward, these are good method feeders if you want to fish a Helicopter or Chod rig with a method feeder: http://www.bristolangling.com/8875/Preston-Flat-Elasticated-Method-Feeder.html?referrer=froogle&utm_source=google&utm_medium=froogle&utm_campaign=pid8875

They fix on the end of the leadcore as a normal weight would and have an elasticated shock absorber to help prevent cracking off when you hit the clip. I find 12lb mono is fine even with a big method feeder, just make sure you drop the rod tip at the end of the cast.

Paul Garner21-03-2010, 07:07 AMRather than Leadcore use a length of anchor tubing above the method feeder, the whole lot will slide off the line then if you're unlucky enough to get a break. You can thread the bottom of the anchor tubing into the tail rubber of the method feeder to keep it in place. You can can safely fish your method feeder standard bolt rig style then.

CheerPaul

Jeremy Evans21-03-2010, 07:17 AMUse a flouro mainline and fish it slack with no leader, this will hug the lakebed better than stiff leadcore and wont stick out like a sore thumb as leadcore does. Last year i had 60+ 20lb carp home and away all on simple rigs with no leaders or tubing 99.9% of the time it isn't needed. Place one of your leadcore leaders next to a length of 12lb floro in the margins and tell me which is the most inconspicuous.

Howard Hutchins21-03-2010, 10:01 AM

Some great ideas here,many thanks for them.Think ill deffo dump the leadcore idea,as seems no rigs are really safe with it,and the worst scenerio,is a break at the mainline end of the leadcore,means the fish is towingleadcore and,leader around,so may go with tube or metal putty,to pin the line down.Jeremy. Tend to agree with what you say.Quote; Place one of your leadcore leaders next to a length of 12lb floro in the margins and tell me which is the most inconspicuous. Though,anglers spend hours making thier rigs inconspicuous,but nothing moreconspicuous than a half empty method feeder that the carp will headbuttto get the last bit out,strange innit :)

Cheers Howard

Jeremy Evans21-03-2010, 10:42 AMYep i'm sure we make them out to be highly intelligent when nothing is further from the truth, i mean they have a brain the size of a baggies fan ie. a pea. (sorry Mr Lowe)lol

Fishing With A Method Feeder

FISHING WITH A METHOD FEEDER

" Firstly, what exactly is it "Basically, it’s a way to present the hookbait next to a tight area of feed without being too complicated. By fishing with a method feeder and a short hooklink, anglers are able to guarantee that the hookbait is within inches of free offerings. In turn, this means that if a fish finds your attractive freebies, it is almost certain to pick up your hookbait!

‘The Method’ will catch most species of fish, but is commonly used to target carp, bream, barbel or tench. To decide how to fish this technique, it is worth considering several factors. What are you fishing for? Match carp? Specimen carp? Or maybe barbel from the river? What distance are you comfortable fishing at? Depth and temperature of water, colour of the bottom, colour of the water, weed, silt, clay, hookbaits, groundbaits, feeding patterns, time of day, the tackle used etc. All of these things could affect how effective this style of angling is on your particular water.

The tackle used can be very simple; a strong rod, which may be a quivertip or carp rod, a suitable reel, a feeder, rig tube, tail rubber, hooklength and hook. There are endless variations, but the basics remain the same in each set up. If we consider the feeder itself, it may have elastic running through it to attach the hook length, it may be a coil, it may have a flat, weighted side or it may be a ‘finned’ feeder. All have the same function; to provide a frame for a stiff groundbait mix to adhere to. When you are fishing with a method feeder your choose should reflect the rod and reel you have; there is not much point trying to cast a loaded feeder weighing 5 ounces with a quivertip rod and float reel. Smaller feeders can be used with lighter rods, but for bigger weights you should use a stronger rod.

The rig tubing is there for the same reason that it is used in any other rig, to protect the fish and help prevent tangles. The tail rubber joins the feeder to tubing and keeps everything tidy, then the hooklink can be tied on. If the mainline should fail, all items are easily released into the water and will not be left tethered to the fish; the hooklink is a lighter breaking strain than the main line, so if that fails, again, the fish is not tethered. This is the most important aspect of the set up; IT MUST BE SAFE!

When the tubing, tail rubber and feeder are all fitted together, the mainline passes through the middle to a swivel at the base of the feeder; it is important that the swivel cannot pass back through the feeder. The hooklink can then be fastened onto the other side of the swivel to complete the rig. Before any groundbait is placed around the frame, the swivel must be pushed back into the bottom of the feeder to create the ‘bolt’ effect that makes this method so effective. The swivel should be matched to the feeder to ensure a snug fit. The ‘FOX’ feeder uses a size 8 rolling swivel, and this sits just inside the feeder as shown. In the event of a snag or break, the swivel releases and the components fall away. If the hook is ‘hair rigged’ this allows the hook to turn as soon as the fish picks up the bait, and the weight of the feeder provides the means for the hook to find purchase.

The next essential part of fishing with a method feeder is the ground bait which is used. It must be stiff enough to stick to the feeder for some time and survive the cast without breaking up; this encourages the fish to attack the rig in order to remove the bait…. Ready made method mixes can be obtained from the tackle shop, or you can make your own which can be tailored to suit the situation. A good starting point is a crumb mix with few freebies, this means the only ‘real’ bait is the hookbait. If the fish are very competitive, more free offerings can be added to keep them interested. Try to match the hook bait to the groundbait; put corn liquid in to the mix if you use corn on the hook….dead maggots (so they don’t break up the mix) if you use maggot baits or pellets if using a boilie or pellet hookbait; experiment to find out what works on the day….be careful not to over feed the fish as you want them to fight for your bait! If adding liquid flavourings, remember to add the flavour to the water before you add the water to the groundbait to so the flavour is distributed evenly throughout the mix.

Hook baits should ideally be ‘hair rigged’. This allows a better chance of the bait being taken properly. The bait can be presented outside the ‘method ball’ (of groundbait) or pressed into the edge of the feed mix. By burying the bait within the groundbait, fish are less wary of the hook as it may not be seen resulting in savage takes.

Bite indication is generally fairly obvious…if using alarms, a few bleeps as the fish attack the feeder may be followed by a very positive ‘run’; if using a quivertip, some ‘knocks and taps’ followed by the tip wrapping round and the rod being pulled off the rod rest is the normal result as the fish hooks itself and bolts away, so stay by your gear!

To finish, ‘Fishing The Method’ can be a very good way to catch a bonus fish in the depths of winter, or to catch multiple fish on warmer days. Fished properly in the right area, with the right bait, with the right tackle, it can prove unbeatable and give you a real ‘red letter’ day to remember…

The Method for Carp

The method feeder is basically a frame around which groundbait is packed into a ball. The rig is constructed in the same way as an inline bolt rig but the feeder acts as the weight. So, thread it together as per an inline lead and clip the swivel into the socket at the bottom end of the feeder to create the semi-fixed bolt rig. As the groundbait dissolve's and breaks down it will in turn attract Carp and they will begin to pull at the groundbait resulting in pulls and bleeps. This can be very exciting indeed and you may need to sit on your hands!The cage construction of the feeder has enough weight to pull the hook home even if all the groundbait has gone. Altogether a very effective Carp rig.