With the exception of the relatively rare Wels catfish, carp are the largest species of coarse fish found in the UK and arguably the hardest fighting. Thus a specialist approach is required to catch the bigger specimens. Listed here are the most commonly used and equally effective terminal rigs used when carp fishing.
It is very important when creating bolt rigs to ensure they are of the semi-fixed type to allow a fish to pull free of the lead in the event of a line break. Choose an in-line lead around 2 oz for middle distance casting with a main line of not less than 10 lb breaking strain. Ensure the lead will allow a swivel to be firmly inserted into one end, while not requiring excess force to pull free. This will set the hook when the fish bolts but will pull free if the main line snaps.
Thread the main line through 10 or 12 inches of rig tube, through an inch of rubber tube and through the in-line lead securing it to the swivel with a grinner knot. Attach the braid hooklength to the other end of the swivel.
Push the rubber tube over the end of the lead and insert the rigging tube into it. Pull the main line and guide the swivel into the lead securing it firmly.
This is a very effective method for catching carp when they are feeding on the surface. It is used for presenting large floating baits such as breadcrust or pellets. Don't fish with an oversized float, judge the size by the distance that you are casting. When targeting the near margins a small bubble float will suffice, but for fishing at a greater distance the carp controller float will serve you well.
Thread the main line (10 to 12lb) through the controller, as shown above, and tie it off to a swivel using a strong knot such as the palomar knot. Attach a hooklength of around 2 feet to the other end of the swivel (a light coloured 8lb monofilament line is ideal for this). Tie off a strong specimen hook (size 10 to 6 depending upon size of bait). Leave the hook point showing even when hooking relatively soft bait such as bread.
