THE SLIMLINE METHOD FEEDER ’ BAG-UP ‘ WAGGLER.

This type of float was originally developed in the 1990’s for fishing in carp stocked reservoirs, such as Drayton, Boddington and other large waters. It soon became a unique successful carp crunching method that allowed for fishing the upper layers, using a combination of method feed with a variety of different baits. The concept is similar to pellet waggling, the difference being that the feed is method ground bait rather than loose fed pellets. One cannot be too dogmatic, but carp in larger waters appear to respond better to the big splash made by ground bait hitting the water, where as the reverse can often be the case on smaller waters.

The casting of a combination of the float plus the method feed, will ideally require a rod with a good all through action and a test curve of 1 ½ - 2lbs around 11-12ft in length, with main lines in the 8-12lb bracket. Floats for this style of fishing are large and act as a bolt rig so keep in touch with you rod. It only takes a second for a fast taking carp to have your rod disappearing across the lake! Many anglers now use bait runner reels which, if set properly, will save loosing expensive gear. It can be advisable to set your reel clutch loosely and tighten up whilst playing the fish.

Setting up the float is simple. Attach to the main line a strong quick change adaptor and immediately below the adaptor place a leger stop. This will ensure that with continually casting your chosen depth does not vary through slipping. Always place a match size swivel between the main line and hook length, this will help avoid line twist which can be a nuisance at the best of times. Hook lengths should be of a lighter breaking strain than the main line and around 12 inches(30cms) long, strong hooks in sizes 16-12 tied as a hair rig or for banded pellets complete the business end. Now attach the feeder float of your choice via the quick change adaptor, bait up and start fishing.

Visit your local tackle shop where you will find a number of different brands of method mixes, all of which over the years have been perfected and are highly recommended. If you’re not sure ask the shop staff, they are only too willing give advice if needed. Mix the method feed carefully as if its too stodgy it will stick to the feeder, too dry and it will probably break off when casting. A fluffy damp mix with no lumps will squeeze around the feeder perfectly, breaking away soon after impact leaving an enticing suspended cloud in the upper layers of the water. Over the years large bags of fish have been taken on a variety of hook baits. Corn, maggots and pellets have all been successful, so too have been coloured boilies and in particular 10mm white boilies. Whatever you use, incorporate some into the method mix as free offerings.