Life On The Edge

Dave explains the benefits of a margin pole, which is a simple but very effective way to fish.

1 A STEP TOO FAR

It often amuses me when I see the way that many anglers have become preoccupied with fishing at distance.

They are probably casting over more fish than they will ever catch during a session. On many venues the margins are ignored in favour of feeders that cast like bullets, or fully loaded floats that zoom out to the horizon.

But the fish don’t know long range casting is all the rage. If they choose to live or patrol close in, only excessive bankside disturbance will deter them.

Many fish have learnt to graze the margins, thanks to so many anglers regularly dumping leftover bait in this area. It’s a prime spot on both commercials and wild venues, not just for carp but for many different species.

2 MARGIN PACKAGE

Margin poles vary in length, generally between 6-8 metres. I prefer slightly longer designs, because they can get you closer to features such as lily beds or dense cover.

Also, having a spare section or two to add on can get you out of trouble when big fish power off into open water.

A cupping kit is essential to deposit groundbait and free offerings inch perfectly, and at least a couple of top kits.

There are two main areas that produce well close in: tight to cover such as reeds and rushes, or in deeper water at the bottom of the nearside ledge.

It’s a good idea to have two pole rigs set up to explore these areas, because either can produce. I keep switching to stay in contact with the fish.

3 STRETCH FACTOR

The most important component in a margin pole is the elastic. I use the hollow type, because it stretches so much further than solid versions.