Converted
As I mentioned in my previous months article (Time to Evolve), my rig presentations have varied over the last ten years while angling on waters such as Welly, Wasing, and a variety of RDAA waters. I do angle to the situation in front of me, but I have become a loyalist to the helicopter system predominantly. I did not mind a lead clip, but I just did not historically favour it. A lot of my waters during this 10-year period, have been very weedy so the versatility of the helicopter has suited me and my style of angling.
However, despite catching through the winter and early spring on the trusted helicopter, after paying a lot more attention to the new Evolve Tackle weight clips, Evolve weights, and other essential end tackle components, I was very keen to specifically try out the weight clips. From mid-April, this is exactly what I did, and my bite and catch rate throughout May and June has changed significantly for the better.
At Evolve Tackle we have been developing techniques to make fishing weights that are both lead free and superior to lead. Being alternate to lead, they are slightly larger in size, but I have found this has aided feeling the lead down and, although marginal, the additional surface area when lying on the lakebed is offering more resistance and aiding optimum hook holds. I have always paid interest to hook holds, but while experimenting with this new set up for me l paid even more interest.
I have been using the Evolve distance swivel weights in both 3oz and 4oz. Apart from our non-lead weights being the best environmental option, the integral steel swivel is another key ingredient. This swivel minimises the height to ensure no additional connections and hinging, meaning when a carp lifts the hook point and moves the weight clip, they instantly feel the resistance from the weight. Now it was a case of finding the optimum rig and rig length to partner with and capitalise on the new weight components.
First up, was the multi rig. A rig I already had huge confidence with. I love the versatility of being able to quick change the hook and a big fan of the agile rotation at the join between the stiff boom and the softer hook end section. The multi rig also aids me to ensure my chosen 20mm wafter would be close to the lakebed. It was then a case of locating smooth silt areas amongst the abundance of canadian pond weed, in favoured areas, and see what unfolded.
My first session early in May with the new rigs and components, and it was instant success. I started with 4″ hook links and the takes, and subsequent hook holds were insane. Two long and lean cricket bat commons that I had one after the other ticked all the important boxes in my adjusted approach. It then became the start of a good run of carp from the 25-acre relatively low stock pit. I had no reason to adjust anything and to be honest, with the number of carp in the lake I was starting to feel confident any carp that picked up my hook bait was going to be hooked.
I then went on to land twelve commons in a row to just over 37lb over the next three consecutive sessions. No idea why only commons, I guess that’s just the way things go. All the carp didn’t come from the same swim either. But my approach was consistent in terms of finding smooth silt and drop the same rigs. My free offerings were also consistent. Four spombs of mixed sized (12mm, 16mm, 20mm) handcraft baits ‘herb’ per rod. This mega fishmeal has the flavour profile and gives a spicy rich scent that is easily recognisable and addictive.
The reasons for opting for a 20mm wafter. The lake is populated with an abundance of tench, which since flipping to 20mm I have avoided. But also, during the spring, the lake is full of large water snails. With the carp clearly wafting these up regularly, it seemed like the right thing to do to match the hatch and mimic the size.
After a string of impressive commons, the inevitable mirrors starting to show themselves. One of them had to be one of the oldest in the lake. It looked as old as the hills. It plodded in like an OAP and was impeccable for the camera. At 35lb 6oz it certainly was a relic of a carp. Grey, wrinkled and few stories under its belt. Almost bang on the same time early the following morning and a jet black 36lb brute of a common was in the net. Absolutely brutal fight.
It was becoming obvious I was achieving the ultimate hook mechanics and the hook point was penetrating the skin with ample weight being applied. Evolve Tackle weight clips and weights have turned my head big time. 22 bites and 22 carp landed across May and June and no blank sessions.
Converted weight clip user!
Be lucky, Carl.