Spreading The Load

Consistent carp catcher Chilly explains why a spread of boilies is his number one approach.

In many respects, the things we think and do in life are dictated by our own experiences. That is a situation I am entirely happy with, because I don’t necessarily like to listen to what others tell me. It may be very interesting, but in most instances I would rather find out for myself. And nothing, apart from a very nice chap telling me about the hair rig way back when, has changed my mind on that. If you do things and experiment for yourself, then you will understand what is happening infinitely more, and it is that understanding which allows you to get the very best from the tackle and tactics you are employing.

Over the years (more than I care to mention as it goes) I have managed to fine things down to the most simple of things. Rigs are a no-brainer for me, and I rely on only two. For my bottom bait fishing I use a long hair on six to seven inches of 20lb Coretex strippable braid. To avoid tangles I always use a mesh PVA bag, the size of which will depend on the distance at which I want to position the hookbait. Sometimes I waver and cast out a stifflink pop-up, but in the main it’s the bottom bait rig for me, featuring rig mechanics that I haven’t changed for probably more than 20 years.