cobleyn

I tend to use 2-3inch hook links with solid bags. Usually with supple braid.

It's not that it wouldn't work with a bottom bait. I used it a lot in the past with critically balanced/ snowman rigs....its just that's it's widely regarded as a good pop up rig.

I have no valid retort. My name is Cob...and I like long hairy bottoms.

I always like a long hair for bottom baits.

A few comments: A ring swivel (as previously mentioned) will be better on the hook. See Nige's recent photo tutorial for a cracking way to fix the swivel and bait on. Maybe try a size 6 or slightly thicker shank hook for more weight. I personally like the carp r us long shank nailers. The tubing on the left hand side (ie on the swivel) will inhibit the pivot into the fishes mouth. Whilst not a pure 360 rig (more of a hinged stiff rig), you could consider a length of mono in between the hook and the swivel. This allows you to vary the distance between the deck and the pop up and if you crimp it on adds weight. A loop knot to the ring swivel (Rather than the fixed one you use) will add potentially add more movement to the rig.

Hooklink or mainline?

Fleabay gives you a full choice of sizes. I've carried one for years for worms and to inject pva bags with flavour.

I use the solar stuff in 80lb for hooklengths for arapiama. Awesome stuff. Nash armour braid is good stuff. Not the most flexible braid on the market, but sinks like a stone and is really abrasion resistant.

My rig board is a bit of a mess. But generally I have the following tied up: Short braid rigs for bag work. Hinged stiff rigs for pop ups. Combi links for general use (boilie/ maggot). I have a variety of hook sizes in there as I match my hook to my bait size. In the summer I was using a size 2 with a 35mm bait. My hinged pop-ups are between an 8 and a 12 as I tend to use them in winter as singles. If the hook is still sharp- it goes on the rig board and I'll use it again if the need arises. After about 6-9 months I'll empty it and bin everything (except swivels).

Few advantages- firstly is the non-tangle aspect, secondly is the ability for fish to deal with it- ie if they have been used to dealing with Braid, it can present them with a different presentation to deal with. third- its a material that re-sets itself when coupled with a more buoyant hook-bait.

I would agree with you usually kev if you were using a standard leader knot. The beauty of the albright is that you can trim the tags down to nothing as it won't unravel.

Fair play to him- nice fish. ...TBH I've had most of my UK fish this season on 30mm+ baits.

Google 'albrite knot'. Brilliant knot. A bit tricky the first few times you tie it...but perfect for what you are looking for

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