stevew1805

1. No. I think as Jez says that a sharp hook hooks the fish, and in many cases we play the hook to a better hookhold during the fight. The point goes into the lip, and then as the rod is picked up to "strike" because we are pulling "up" the hook shank the point goes in even further. 2. The sooner I get indication the better, preferably as soon as it picks it up or starts to move, rather than it moving the lead. With a running lead I think that the hooklink "extends" and so line is taken through the run ring. Not sure that makes sense, but I know what I mean Some of my best hookholds on Carp have been on Float fished or freelined surface baits. Do we go to a Leadclip because we need it or because of the "Innovators" or advertising rather than what may actually be best? This is all very interesting and (as a novice) I am learning a lot - so thanks to everyone. Regarding hooking the fish, I watched the Korda DVD's, and saw carp simply pick up a bait, but because of the short rig length, it felt the hook, dashed off and hooked itself on the lead (with help of the strike). The hook was also bent upwards with tubing to help it into the lip. It looked like the carp were happy to stay stationary and pluck at the bottom food. On a completely free running rig, I wonder if the fish would have been able to eject the hook, without a run, or even a bite indication. Any thoughts?

That was great Zander - many thanks, you explained it very nicely. Thanks too salokcinnodrog - I will check that link now.

As you may know, I am a complete novice. But I had a long chat with my experienced fishing buddy last night, and I got to thinking about semi-fixed and in-line rigs. It seems to me that an in-line rig is more stable on the bottom and has less movement than a semi-fixed rig, which led me to believe that it would be more effective in hooking fish. Can I ask: what are your views on my thoughts, and what makes you use a semi-fixed, as opposed to an in-line rig? Many thanks in advance.

Thanks for the link, and thanks to everyone for all this excellent advice. I am grateful. Steve

Thanks boys. I guess I need to go and get knotted now Joking aside, you guys are helping me out no end. I am going out for the first time soon with an experienced guy, but all this background and info is invaluable. Thank goodness for the internet and good hearted fellow anglers.

Why is that Krs?

Thanks Zander - I am going out for the first time in about 10 days, but I have plenty of time to master those three puppies. Many thanks for your help

As a novice I am practising tying knots. But what I am wondering is: What is the basic set of knots I must master to get going with my carp career? Many thanks in advance.

It's not for the faint hearted or weak backed!

Yes, you're right. It is very difficult on public transport and impossible if you plan on taking your bivvie etc Still, I have put an ad in the local rag for a buddy who lives nearby and would like to share fuel costs. Fingers crossed. S

Here is a link that may help: http://www.carp-uk.net/waterguide/greaterlondon.htm I will drop you a line if I get anything organised. I don't currently fish, as I am just re-starting my hobby, so I will collect information as I go and pass it on.

Thank you very much for all your rooting around. I really appreciate it. I am aware of some of these waters, and some are very good. Unfortunately, the problem is getting myself and all my gear over there, which is why I was looking for a buddy close to where I live. I have put an ad in the local paper which comes out today, so I am keeping my fingers crossed fort that. But thank you again for all your hard work. Steve

I am looking for a buddy to go fishing with who lives close to me. I don't have a car, but I figured if I paid the petrol costs for getting to venues we could both benefit. Is there anyone in the area of London Bridge or Southwark that would be interested? Best regards, Steve