Pole fishing is arguably unbeatable for close range fishing on stillwaters, canals and rivers. Pole fishing offers the best accuracy and presentation available. The finest end-tackle can be used, providing that the correct balance of mainline and more importantly elastic are also used. This section will include details of how to elasticate a pole top kit, how to set-up a rig, details of the most popular end rigs and tips on using the pole and getting the most out of it.
A very effective rig for fishing big baits such as luncheon meat, sweetcorn and pellets on the ever popular carp fisheries of today. A powerful carp pole is essential with an elastic of size 10 or larger.
Using a propriety brand carp float for strength and high visibility, set up the rig with the bulk weight close to the bottom, be it a string of small shot or an olivette as shown above. Use a strong specimen hook of size appropriate to the bait being fished - size 14 is about right for a 1/4 inch cube of meat. Keep the loose feed going in, using a pot for accuracy.
The dibber float takes very little shot to achieve the correct level but has a buoyant tip to allow big baits to be fished off the bottom. This rig is best used in shallow water or fishing the upper reaches of stillwaters. Ideally suited to far bank canal fishing, margin and up in the water carp fishing.
A simple rig to make up - place 3 no. 8 shot on the main line and attach your hooklength. Use line and hook sizes proportional to the size of bait and the size of fish you intend to catch, for example size 22 or 20 hook for maggot and caster, and size 16 or 14 hook for sweetcorn and meat.
