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I also use pva foam all year, regardless of weed levels, leaves, whatever; even if I'm fishing on hard gravel. It helps separate the hook bait from the lead on the cast, improves presentation for any rigs with a degree of stiffness, just helps in every department IMO. I will adjust the way I attach the foam in cold water (I've seen the foam stay on all night before!). Once it's on the deck I actually agree with Phil - Dead leaves are so forgiving as a substrate, same as silt; we worry about presentation but the carp will find a way if they're feeding. I'd happily fish a bottom bait over leaves if forced to (normally use pop ups anyway though). Useless fact time: the foam stuff is actually not pva, it's corn starch based, just called pva so anglers get the point of what it is.

I'd like to add (and I know it was just a joke), that while being built like Tarzan doesn't hurt, technique is what gets you distance. It's comparable to golf in that even people who aren't in terrific shape can get a decent shot off with practice. The bit about rods softening up a little is true, and in some cases as in close river fishing I like it.

Ok then have it your way big nose

The fish I had the other day was over a leafy bottom, I was using a bottom bait with plastic corn to bring it down slower. What I will add is: Before I fished I went over a small area with a sea fishing lead that as 4 prongs fitted. So that may help you too, cheaper & I think less off putting for the fish then a rake.

My profile picture is from about 2nd or 3rd grade lol! I'm 19 years old, I'm not bulky, but I can get big distances. The point is, I don't like distance fishing. Listening about people who fish 400 metres away makes me nauseous... I'm looking for around 70-80 metres at best ^^ I was also looking at the Nash H-Gun rods. Any opinions on them? Also, what length would you recommend - 3.60 or 3.96?

I'll admit it was when pleasure fishing using lighter tackle with sprayed maggot but I could also see it happening with sharp hooks light leads

This time of year I like to protect the hook point , the lake I was fishing the other day was covered in leaves & hooking one as the rig hit the water was a possibility plus the leaves held mid water .