ASK THE EXPERTS
Dear Panel,
How can I get the carp to come away from the snags to feed? I've seen them feed in the snags yet bait 2-3 feet away rarely gets touched. Also, what would be the safest rig and setup to use in case a fish gets back into the snag after a take?
Many thanks,
Bob Benson,
Solihull,
West Mids.
Hi Bob,
Good question and it's a situation that I have been faced with on many occasions. The first and main point to note is that you should immediately stop feeding them in the snags, the fish will feed all day long in safety and getting them to take a bait outside the snags becomes a real hardship.
If you feed them in the snags you’re reducing your chances.
My approach to catching fish that stay in the snags is to watch them; many hours have been spent watching the fish’s behaviour and routes into and out of the snags. These are the areas that you need to bait. Usually snags are located in the margin, and this usually enables the carp to exit along the nearest feature, namely the marginal shelf. If there are overhanging trees nearby this would be my line of attack, because after leaving the snags they still feel covered and more secure. Remember, you don't have to fish two inches away from the snag, with regular introduction of quality bait you can get them feeding positively nearby and catch them in relative safety.
My favourite lead ejection rig and components.
As for the rigs to use, I prefer long leadcore leaders for their abrasion-resistance and a breakaway lead. If fishing in close on a hard bottom you cannot beat the breakaway in-line lead setup shown. If the bottom is less firm, a lead clip setup with the clip shortened is preferred as this, in conjunction with a short (4-7ins) strong braided hooklink, a strong forged hook, and a balanced hookbait, has accounted for most of my snag-caught fish. Always remember to try to beef up your tackle – I’d rather hook one fish and land it than hook three carp and only land one!! Always err on the side of caution and think of the fish’s welfare.
A near-40lb common that I lured away from the snags.
The last thing to remember is the rod setup. Try to fish single banksticks, rock solid and with a fairly tight line to your lead, bobbin set high and your clutch set so as not to give line unless under great stress. Sit close to your rod at all times as the takes are likely to be violent and intense, pure hook and hold. If you can master it, snag fishing is a real buzz.
Enjoy, and all the best.
Monki
