Author: Big Carp News

'The Strawberry' taken on a flipper rig over a small patch of boilie.

A Master of Precision – Luke Vallory

Within the esteemed Korda Mindset team, Luke Vallory stands out as one of the most consistently successful anglers.

Regardless of the venue, Luke Vallory’s catch rate remains impressively high, showcasing his ability to adapt to diverse fishing situations. While Luke possesses various strengths in his angling repertoire, one of his standout attributes is his meticulous attention to detail – a quality undoubtedly contributing to his remarkable success.

'The Pit 4 Fully' taken on a size 4 Krank over a bed of seed. Luke Vallory
‘The Pit 4 Fully’ taken on a size 4 Krank over a bed of seed.

Undoubtedly, Luke is among the most reliable anglers in our team, consistently hauling carp from challenging waters nationwide, making the process appear deceptively effortless.

Luke gives his rigs his full attention, making sure everything is perfect.
Luke gives his rigs his full attention, making sure everything is perfect.
Time is carefully spent studying the rig to make sure every detail is perfect.
Time is carefully spent studying the rig to make sure every detail is perfect.

Whether it’s ‘The Pit 4 Fully’ captured on a size 4 Krank over a bed of seed or any other catch in his impressive portfolio, Luke Vallory’s angling approach involves a thorough analysis of key elements contributing to his success. Amidst these considerations, one constant factor is Luke’s unwavering attention to detail.

Rigs are always tested to ensure the bait sits exactly right.
Rigs are always tested to ensure the bait sits exactly right.

Every aspect of Luke’s angling receives meticulous attention – from locating the fish to baiting and rig tying. His approach is characterized by care, thoughtfulness, and a commitment to excellence. Rig tying is a meticulous process, hooks undergo detailed scrutiny, and hooklinks are painstakingly straightened.

Attention to detail with accuracy is also a key attribute to Luke's success.
Attention to detail with accuracy is also a key attribute to Luke’s success.

Rig testing in the edge ensures flawless presentation, leaving nothing to chance. With rods deployed, Luke takes solace in knowing that he sits behind perfectly presented setups.

Luke Vallory’s commitment to excellence extends to his choice of equipment, such as fishing with Sub Braid for accuracy and utilizing IQ2 leaders for near-invisible end tackle securely pinned to the lakebed.

'The Strawberry' taken on a flipper rig over a small patch of boilie. Luke Vallory
‘The Strawberry’ taken on a flipper rig over a small patch of boilie.

Observing Luke in action is enlightening, illustrating how simplicity in fishing is intertwined with a relentless pursuit of perfection. His approach revolves around giving 100% to every aspect of angling and refusing to settle for anything less than impeccable – a mindset undeniably at the core of Luke’s ongoing success.

dark matter hybrid lead clip leader

Dark Matter Leaders Review

The entire concept behind the Dark Matter range revolves around the incorporation of tungsten, and this principle extends to their line of leaders. Here is a Dark Matter Leaders Review.

Diverse and pre-tied, the Dark Matter leader range offers an array of options, all unified by the presence of tungsten-infused collars in the fused material. This unique construction ensures that the leader stays securely pinned to the lake bed, minimizing the risk of fish encountering it and getting spooked.

Dark Matter Leaders Review

A standout feature of this leader range is its adaptability, allowing you to employ any lead system or set-up in a safe and hassle-free manner. Each leader is equipped with a fused loop at one end, facilitating easy attachment to your main line loop-to-loop style. No more dealing with intricate knots; as long as you can tie a loop in your main line, you can seamlessly use any of these leaders. While conventional knots like the grinner are an option, the loop-to-loop method proves quicker and simpler.

Dark Matter Leaders Review

Certain leaders within the range come complete with the entire lead system, streamlining your setup process. Just attach it to your main line, clip on your hook link, add a lead, and you’re ready to cast out! This includes options such as Heli-Safe and standard helicopter styles, Hybrid Lead Clip, and QC Hybrid Lead Clip versions.

Others offer the flexibility to utilize your preferred lead system components, catering to both running or inline lead setups, including drop-off styles, Heli-Safe System, and Leadcore Chod Safety System – all on a fused leader. This flexibility becomes particularly valuable in fisheries that prohibit leadcore leaders but still allow short leaders for effective rig presentation.

Dark Matter Leaders Review

Beyond their angler-friendly design, these leaders enhance fish safety by ensuring the lead or hook link can safely eject every time. Unlike leadcore leaders, they don’t develop kinks due to the memory of lead wire inside, ensuring optimal safety. They also mitigate the risk of scales being lifted or fins split during a fight, a common concern when using the main line all the way through to the hook link.

Constructed from tough and abrasion-resistant material with minimal memory, these leaders boast a breaking strain of 30lb (available in 40lb breaking strain in Europe). The low memory ensures they remain straight once stretched out, and they come in clear, weed, or gravel options (with silt or clay versions for some). Varying lengths – 1m, 50cm, or 30cm – cater to different fishing scenarios. For instance, the Ring Swivel Leader is available in all three lengths due to its versatility, while the Drop Off Inline Leader is specifically crafted in 30cm for those using drop-off inlines in solid PVA bags. Each pack includes one leader, but they are reusable and easily detachable from your main line – a convenient feature, especially for solid bag fishing enthusiasts who often need to switch pre-tied bags.

Dark Matter Leaders Review

DARK MATTER DROP OFF INLINE LEADER

Crafted with a specific purpose in mind, these leaders are tailor-made for use with drop-off inline leads, finding their sweet spot in solid PVA bag fishing. However, their versatility extends beyond this niche, making them a suitable choice for various fishing scenarios requiring this type of lead setup.

Remaining consistent with the entire Dark Matter leader range, these leaders incorporate tungsten collars, ensuring they stay securely pinned to the bottom. The fused loop at one end simplifies attachment to your main line, eliminating unnecessary complexities.

dark matter drop off inline leader

At the opposite end, you’ll find a size 8 Ring Swivel, strategically placed to facilitate drop-off style fishing. This involves inserting the other eye of the swivel into the nose of an inline lead and then attaching your hook link to the ring. You have the flexibility to customize the inline lead and tail rubber according to your preferences.

With a length of 30cm, this leader is specifically designed for solid bag fishing and adheres to regulations on waters where longer leaders are prohibited. Boasting a robust 30lb breaking strain, it offers a dependable option for anglers. Additionally, you can select from clear, weed, or gravel color options to align with the lake bed characteristics of your fishing environment.

DARK MATTER HELI-SAFE LEADER

The Dark Matter Heli-Safe Leader is strategically engineered for compatibility with various helicopter-style setups, including chod rigs.

One end showcases our innovative Heli-Safe System, simplifying the process of attaching your preferred lead. The incorporation of the Chod Safe System enhances safety when fishing with a helicopter setup, ensuring smooth detachment of your hook link if your main line happens to break. You have the flexibility to adjust the top bead’s distance above the lead based on the depth of silt or weed in your fishing environment. Available in 50cm or 1m lengths, this leader is versatile enough to cater to chod setups. The shorter leaders also prove advantageous for long-range fishing, contributing to increased casting distances compared to the longer version.

dark matter heli safe leader

Connecting your chosen hook link is a breeze with the QC Ring Swivel – a simple clip-on process complemented by concealing the QC part with a Dark Matter Anti-Tangle Sleeve before casting.

The opposite end of the leader features a fused loop for easy attachment to your main line. Tungsten collars along its length ensure it remains securely pinned to the bottom. With options for 50cm or 1m lengths and a choice of clear, weed, or gravel colors, this leader provides adaptability to suit various fishing scenarios and lake bed conditions.

DARK MATTER HELICOPTER/CHOD LEADER

Tailored for scenarios where a helicopter-style setup is preferred but dropping the lead isn’t necessary, this leader offers versatility for both conventional hook links and chod rigs.

At one end, the inclusion of a Kwik Link simplifies the process of attaching your chosen lead, covered seamlessly by the included Helicopter Sleeve.

Incorporating the Chod Safe System, this leader ensures safe fishing with a helicopter setup by facilitating easy detachment of your hook link in the event of a main line break. The adjustable top bead allows you to set its distance above the lead, catering to the depth of silt or weed in your fishing spot. With a 1m leader length, it accommodates chod setups as well.

dark matter helicopter chod leader

Your hook link connects to a Ring Swivel, providing flexibility for direct tying/crimping or the addition of a Kwik Link for easy switching between different hook links.

The opposite end of the leader features a fused loop for straightforward attachment to your main line. Tungsten collars along its length guarantee secure pinning to the bottom. Available in a 1m length, this leader offers options in clear, weed, gravel, silt, or clay colors to suit various lake bed conditions.

DARK MATTER HYBRID LEAD CLIP LEADER

This leader introduces a Hybrid Lead Clip at one end, complemented by a Hybrid Tail Rubber, offering a secure and semi-fixed method for fishing with any swivel lead of your preference.

Attaching your lead to the lead clip is a straightforward process, and tying/crimping your hook link to the integrated ring swivel in the Hybrid Lead Clip completes the setup, making it ready for casting.

dark matter hybrid lead clip leader

On the opposite end of this 1m leader, a fused loop facilitates easy attachment to your main line. Tungsten collars are strategically positioned along the leader’s length, ensuring it stays firmly pinned to the lake bed. The leader is available in clear, weed, gravel, clay, or silt colors, providing options to suit different lake bed conditions.

DARK MATTER QC HYBRID LEAD CLIP LEADER

Presenting a QC Hybrid Lead Clip at one end coupled with a Hybrid Tail Rubber, this leader provides a secure and semi-fixed method for fishing with your preferred swivel lead.

The setup is a breeze – attach your lead to the lead clip, and then clip your hook link to the QC swivel, with the suggestion to use a Dark Matter Anti-Tangle Sleeve for covering the QC part of the swivel. This integrated system in the Hybrid Lead Clip streamlines your preparation, ensuring you are ready to cast out effortlessly. Opt for either a 1m or 50cm leader, with the shorter version being particularly handy for longer-range fishing or in waters with restrictions on leader length.

QC Hybrid Lead Clip

The opposite end of the leader boasts a fused loop for straightforward attachment to your main line. Tungsten collars along the leader’s length guarantee secure pinning to the lake bed. Available in clear, weed, or gravel colors, this leader offers options to suit different lake bed conditions.

DARK MATTER QC SWIVEL LEADER

Designed for simplicity, this leader caters to anglers who prefer incorporating their own lead system. It features a size 8 QC Swivel fused onto one end, seamlessly connecting to a loop, while the other end boasts a fused loop for easy attachment to your main line.

The versatile QC Swivel neatly fits into the nose of any inline lead, offering a semi-fixed option. It’s compatible with running swivel lead setups, standard lead clips, or even a Bait Up Method Feeder – providing flexibility for various setups requiring this type of leader material. Quick changes to your hook link are facilitated by the QC Swivel, making attachment and detachment a matter of seconds, especially effective when used with a Dark Matter Anti-Tangle Sleeve.

dark matter qc swivel leader

Available in 30cm or 50cm lengths, this leader is well-suited for long-range fishing and waters with restrictions on longer leaders. It also proves handy for solid bag fishing, especially if you opt not to use a drop-off inline. Choose from clear, weed, or gravel color options based on your lake bed conditions and preferences.

DARK MATTER RING SWIVEL LEADER

Catering to anglers who prefer the flexibility of incorporating their own lead system, this leader stands out as one of the simplest in the range. It features a size 8 Ring Swivel fused onto one end, seamlessly connected to a loop, while the other end boasts a fused loop for convenient attachment to your main line.

The versatile Ring Swivel neatly fits into the nose of any inline lead, offering a semi-fixed option. Whether you opt for a running swivel lead setup, a standard lead clip, or a Bait Up Method Feeder, this leader is adaptable to a variety of setups that require this type of leader material and allow for your chosen lead system.

All that’s left is to either tie or crimp your hook link to the ring on the swivel, and you’re set to cast out effortlessly.

dark matter ring swivel leader

Available in 30cm, 50cm, and 1m lengths, this leader proves ideal for long-range fishing and waters with restrictions on longer leaders. It also serves well for solid bag fishing, especially if you choose not to use a drop-off inline. Opt for a longer leader if you desire more distance between your main line and hook link, where more of it is pinned to the bottom via the integrated tungsten collars, or if you need a longer length of highly abrasion-resistant material above your lead system. Choose from clear, weed, gravel, clay, or silt colors to suit your lake bed conditions and preferences.

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Rig Baiting Spring Tactics

Rig Baiting Spring Tactics

Team Korda member Marc Cavaciuti delves into his Rig Baiting Spring Tactics, shedding light on the strategies that prove highly effective during this awakening period for carp.

Recognizing the paramount importance of Spring in the big carp angler’s calendar, preparation becomes key to maximizing success. Identifying your Spring waters early on is crucial, constituting a significant window of opportunity that cannot be left to the last minute. Being present when the fish truly come alive is the objective; being proactive, not reactive, is the approach to adopt. Instead of waiting at home for your venue’s newsfeed to stir, be the angler igniting the fire, not the one left dampening the embers.

Rig Baiting Spring Tactics: Understanding your campaign water

This becomes the foundation for effective preparation. In Cavaciuti’s case, the 15lb Touchdown from last year proved to be the ideal choice. Its ability to sink seamlessly, nearly invisible green color when submerged, robust strength, and excellent casting performance ticked all the necessary boxes. This versatility allowed him to swiftly adapt his tactics based on swim availability, a significant factor in circuit water angling, and, more crucially, the fish’s location.

Scaling down tackle and luggage was a pivotal strategy, enabling Cavaciuti to react promptly to visual signs of fish activity. This strategic approach underscores the importance of knowing your gear intimately and tailoring it to the specific demands of Spring angling. The ability to switch tactics seamlessly and stay attuned to the nuances of the environment positions the angler for success during this pivotal season.

Rig Baiting Spring Tactics: Touch Down is a low stretch sinking mono from Korda
Rig Baiting Spring Tactics: Touch Down is a low stretch sinking mono from Korda

Rig Baiting Spring Tactics: Emphasizing Mobility

As highlighted earlier, the ability to swiftly respond to observations or the lack thereof holds paramount importance. In my approach, the gear is streamlined, with spare leads and food stored in the van until I’m confident about fish presence. Even single small water bottles find their place in the van initially. When navigating busy circuit-type waters, the capability to return to the barrow and traverse down the path faster than fellow anglers becomes a crucial edge. This emphasis on mobility ensures a strategic advantage in dynamic fishing scenarios.

Rig Baiting Spring Tactics results: 30lb Common caught in two feet of shallows

Exploring Shallows

Rig Baiting Spring Tactics: Not ignoring the Shallows
With the lengthening daylight hours, my attention is consistently drawn to specific areas, particularly those basking in the early rays of the sun. It’s a known fact that cold-blooded creatures crave warmth, and in its presence, their faculties improve – enhanced eyesight, heightened senses, and increased metabolism. These sought-after spots become a familiar neighborhood for the creatures inhabiting them. The shallows, in particular, command a significant portion of my focus.

I recall a night a few years back on a vast reservoir when a robust southerly wind stirred the waves on the northernmost bank. Ordinarily, this scenario would have excited me, but I chose to walk the additional half mile to the shallows. With the sun casting its warmth over an acre-sized area on the leeward side, I witnessed a series of impressive shows – one after another.

Abandoning my initial setup, I quickly grabbed my scaled-down barrow and kit. Within an hour, I secured the first fish of the year, and later in the night, amidst the thickest fog I’ve ever fished in, I landed a rare mid-thirty, all in water less than three feet deep.

When you factor in the safety of avoiding snags in these shallow spring waters, this, on paper, emerges as a key hotspot – a convergence of safety and warmth!

As touched upon earlier, the shallower waters warm up more swiftly compared to the deep, dark depths. In spring, employing zigs becomes a pivotal strategy for various reasons.

Firstly, zigs enable you to position your bait in the water column where the fish prefer to be. It’s futile to fish ten feet below them when they are huddled just two feet below the surface, basking in the warmth with their companions.

Considering their awakening senses after a cold winter, the fish are in a “green” state, and in their somewhat blurry vision, they readily accept attractively presented Goo’d up foam. Zigs prove effective in responding to showing fish without concerns about hookbait being entangled in residual winter debris or encountering fresh weed growth. The key is getting the depths right.

Rig Baiting Spring Tactics that include adopting a strategy of fishing singles or very light baiting has yielded significant catches of sizable fish. Reiterating a point made earlier, their senses are undergoing a recharge – their slowly adapting eyesight and heightened sense of smell/taste should be exploited. In this phase, they aren’t voraciously seeking kilograms of food; their readiness for such consumption is yet to fully kick in. It’s crucial to remember that their chosen location is more about comfort and safety than filling their gut, especially considering their metabolism isn’t fully active yet.

Beyond zigs, I limit my rig choices to two in spring, both involving pop-ups. Utilizing the Heli-Safe and Naked Chod system provides the flexibility to seamlessly switch between these presentations without the need for leadcore or tubing.

Rig Baiting Spring Tactics: Spinner RIg

My top preferences are Naked Chods, particularly in depths exceeding three feet. Their reliability in presentation, stealth, and consistency in landing significant catches make them my go-to choice during this season.

The alternative in my rig arsenal is the adapted spinner rig, ideal for depths less than three feet and tailored for fishing in close proximity to snags or along island shelves. A simple adjustment of the top bead facilitates a gentler descent.

An essential aspect of employing this second rig is its suitability for fishing close to snags and islands, a practice that demands caution with slack lines to prioritize fish safety.

Both these rigs share a common advantage – minimal disturbance. I’m not fixated on pinpoint accuracy or meticulously finding the perfect one-foot square of gravel that might be a surefire spot come July. Instead, my focus is on discreetly presenting where the fish currently reside.

In essence for the proper Rig Baiting Spring Tactics, the key is to stay mobile and responsive! Bright, enticing singles—be it Goo’d up Zigs or Pop-ups—are strategically presented in the areas the fish prefer. Being right in front of their noses is, in my experience, the winning approach during the Spring.

By Marc Cavaciuti

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Spring Bow Landing Net

Spring Bow Landing Net

Introducing the Spring Bow Landing Net, a product that has undergone several years of development to ensure it meets the highest standards of user-friendliness. This innovative net addresses crucial aspects that anglers often overlook when it comes to their gear.

The landing net is a pivotal tool in any angler’s arsenal, playing a critical role in the success or failure during the final moments of a fish fight. Damian Clarke, the mind behind the Spring Bow Landing Net, acknowledges the common issues faced with traditional nets, such as heavy and insufficiently stiff poles, saggy arms, and unreliable spreader blocks. These issues can lead to missed opportunities in landing prized catches.
Spring Bow Landing Net

Spring Bow Landing Net

The Spring Bow Landing Net tackles these challenges head-on, providing a solution that allows anglers to focus solely on enjoying the thrill of the fight. Damian Clarke describes the net as responsive, super stiff, super light, and designed to float on the water. This buoyancy eliminates the frustration of a sinking net during crucial moments, providing a seamless experience for anglers.

The 6ft handle, constructed from high-grade carbon, adds to the net’s buoyancy. Its thin-walled and lightweight design ensures that the net remains on the water’s surface without the need for additional flotation devices. The handle’s stiffness is further enhanced by a reverse taper, minimizing flex and promoting the upward movement of the spreader block.

Spring Bow Landing Net

The satin finish on the handle allows for smooth handling, facilitating quick adjustments during critical moments in the fish fight. Additionally, a stainless steel spike at the handle’s end ensures secure placement into the ground after landing a fish, providing a stable holding space for further preparations.

Crafted by JAG from high-grade aluminum, the spreader block is both strong and durable. Its gunsmoke ceramic coating protects it from chips and scratches, ensuring longevity in various fishing conditions. The net arms, available in 42, 46, or 50-inch lengths, cater to different carp sizes and easily attach to the spreader block for tensioning. Removing them for convenient packing is a hassle-free process, eliminating the common struggles associated with many landing nets.

Spring Bow Landing Net

The mesh, designed at an ideal depth, securely cradles catches while allowing them to rest in the net during preparations. The mesh’s size permits easy maneuvering through the water, with strategically sized holes to minimize potential harm to fish. For added convenience, spare arms and meshes are available separately and are interchangeable with the same handle and spreader block, catering to diverse fishing needs, whether in Europe or the UK.

Spring Bow Landing Net

Crafted from high-grade carbon, the 6ft handle exhibits exceptional strength and stiffness. Its thin-walled and lightweight design not only contributes to these qualities but also imparts natural buoyancy. This buoyancy ensures that the net remains on the water’s surface without requiring a net float, eliminating the risk of it sliding into the depths or getting entangled in underwater debris unnoticed.

To enhance its rigidity, the handle features a reverse taper, minimizing flex when lifted and causing the spreader block to move upwards simultaneously. The satin finish adds a touch of practicality, allowing the handle to smoothly glide through your hands when necessary, such as extending it those extra few inches to fully secure the carp over the net cord.

The handle’s ease of use is further accentuated by its seamless cutting through the water – a truly aesthetic experience for any angler. Additionally, a stainless steel spike at the handle’s end serves a dual purpose. Not only does it facilitate easy insertion into the ground without the risk of damage, but it also provides a secure spot to retain fish immediately after landing. This feature ensures you have the opportunity to attend to proper retention or organize your camera gear without the worry of hearing a splash and turning around to find the fish swimming out of the net, unsecured.

Spring Bow Landing Net

JAG, renowned for their commitment to quality, manufactures the spreader block using high-grade aluminum, ensuring exceptional strength. The block is not only robust but is also meticulously finished with a durable gunsmoke ceramic coating, offering protection against chips and scratches.

For added versatility, the net arms are available in 42, 46, or 50-inch lengths, catering to a range of carp sizes commonly found in European waters. These arms seamlessly integrate with the spreader block, allowing for easy tensioning. Moreover, the user-friendly design allows for effortless removal when it’s time to pack the net away – a departure from the common struggle and worry associated with many landing nets. The arms’ stiffness ensures that as you lift the net through the water, the front section, where the drawcord is located, remains elevated without sagging.

Delving into the mesh design, its optimal depth provides a secure cradle for your catch, allowing it to rest comfortably in the net while you attend to other tasks. The mesh strikes the right balance – not too deep to avoid entangling in debris along the margins but sufficiently deep to secure the catch. The mesh size allows the net to maneuver freely through the water, with holes crafted to minimize potential damage to fish, preventing issues such as splitting fins. It’s essential to note the advice against lifting a fish directly from the water in the net; instead, a transfer to a sling is recommended.

For angler convenience, spare arms and meshes are available separately and are fully interchangeable with the same handle and spreader block. This feature enables anglers to tailor their net size to specific fishing needs, whether engaged in overseas fishing or exploring waters closer to home – a straightforward process involving the purchase of different arms and mesh sizes.

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Aquatexx

AQUATEXX EV® – ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW

The most advanced bivvy material

WHAT IS AQUATEXX EV®?

Unveiling the Cutting-Edge AquateXX EV® Bivvy Material:  The ‘EV’ in Aquatexx EV® signifies ‘evolution.’ Since the introduction of the original Aquatexx® fabric, dedicated efforts have been invested in enhancing and evolving this material, exclusive to Trakker and Aqua bivvies and accessories.

Aquatexx
The foremost commitment is to shield you in the most severe weather conditions. With an outstanding 25,000mm hydrostatic head (HH) rating, Aquatexx EV® sets a new benchmark, offering waterproofing levels unparalleled by other bivvy materials currently available.

KEY FEATURES & BENEFITS

  • Technologically advanced multi-layer composite material
  • Record-breaking waterproof fabric with a 25,000 HH rating
  • Unmatched breathability, ensuring prolonged fishing comfort
  • Uncompromising wind resistance for enhanced warmth and safety
  • Environmentally friendly – Bluesign® approved for sustainable production
  • TEFLON® fabric protector guarantees performance

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What does Hydrostatic Head mean?

Hydrostatic Head (HH) is a method for measuring a fabric’s waterproofness. Using millimeters (mm) as the unit, it indicates the height of a water column required to penetrate the fabric. Aquatexx EV® has been rigorously tested and boasts a minimum 25,000mm HH, making it the highest-rated bivvy material on the market today, surpassing most competitors at around 15-20,000 HH.

What level of UV protection does Aquatexx EV® provide?

Aquatexx EV® material ensures UV protection up to UPF50.

Does Aquatexx EV® fabric let in light?

No, Aquatexx EV® fabric on our range of brollies, bivvies, and social caps offers total blackout for optimal rest conditions. Note that Skull Caps and Skull Cap Wraps lack the blackout feature, as it’s unnecessary.

Is Aquatexx EV® 100% waterproof?

Yes, Aquatexx EV® fabric is 100% waterproof, utilizing Teflon® fabric treatment and a specialized technical coating to repel water effectively.

Aquatexx

I’ve noticed dimples on the inside of the bivvy after heavy rain. Is this normal?

Yes, this is normal. The inner coating minimizes condensation, causing small dimples during heavy rain. This effect is temporary and disappears when dried out.

Will my Aquatexx EV® bivvy or accessory change color over time?

While our bivvies are designed for prolonged use, exposure to sunlight may lead to some fading. We recommend placing the bivvy in shaded areas to minimize color impact.

How do I clean and maintain the performance of my Aquatexx EV® bivvy and accessories?

Optimize your Aquatexx EV® bivvy’s longevity by using our Revive Shelter Complete Care Kit regularly for cleaning and re-proofing.

How often should I re-proof my Aquatexx EV® bivvy and accessories?

Re-proof your bivvy at least twice a year or as needed, depending on usage. Consider re-proofing when you observe a noticeable decline in rain ‘beading-up’ on your bivvy.

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Heli-Safe Tubing Kit

Overview of the Innovative Heli-Safe Tubing Kit

Heli-Safe Tubing Kit System stands as an exceptional product, widely embraced by anglers globally. Now, owing to a strategic refinement, an even broader audience can reap its benefits.

Previously, its application in certain waters faced substantial limitations due to bans on leadcore and leaders. Setups not conducive to being fished ‘naked’ on the main line prompted a quest for alternatives.

Despite these challenges, the Heli-Safe remains the ultimate system for those keen on a helicopter-style rig. It encompasses traditional helicopter setup features—anti-tangle properties, long casting capability, and adjustable top bead for hook link placement. However, its significant advantage lies in allowing the lead to be dropped when a fish is hooked, mitigating the risk of snags or weed entanglement—an issue historically associated with helicopter rigs.

In situations where retaining the lead is unnecessary, the Heli-Safe ‘collar’ can be inserted to prevent its release.

Excitingly, Korda has introduced a groundbreaking solution, enabling the Heli-Safe’s compatibility with rig tubing. Unless water regulations explicitly ban helicopter rigs, this setup is now applicable across various European waters.

Previously incompatible with tubing, the Heli-Safe can now seamlessly integrate it. While a ‘naked’ version was feasible before, not everyone favored having the hook link swivel directly on the main line without a leader, compromising anti-tangle qualities.

Heli-Safe Tubing KitThe seemingly straightforward solution to this predicament, the Heli-Safe Tubing Kit, underwent meticulous development to ensure optimal performance, particularly in still dropping the lead.

Korda’s product development team devised a small yet crucial element—a ‘witch’s hat’ plug inside the Heli-Safe, securing the tubing. Paired with an adapted Heli-Safe ‘cap,’ featuring a hard plastic ‘tail,’ this guarantees the tubing remains secure, preserving the system’s original functionality.

Damian Clarke, the innovator behind the idea, shared his experience, highlighting the effectiveness of the ‘witch’s hat’ in securely holding tubing. He emphasized its compatibility with Dark Matter rig tubing, providing a solution to issues encountered with naked helicopter setups.

The Heli-Safe Tubing Kit, available in brown or green packs, contains all necessary components for two complete setups (excluding tubing). Each pack includes two Heli-Safe caps, five witch’s hats, and two new Tungsten Beads, now accessible at all Korda stockists.

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Carp Fishing Weather

Optimal Carp Fishing Weather Conditions

Carp Fishing Weather: Carp fishing presents challenges, and beginners may feel disheartened after several unsuccessful sessions. Even seasoned carp anglers experience blank sessions—it’s all part of the journey. Understanding the weather conditions preferred by carp can enhance your chances of success.

The perfect Carp Fishing Weather involves a moderate to warm air temperature, low air pressure, south/south-westerly wind, and an overcast sky—creating ideal ‘carpy’ conditions.

IMPACT OF TEMPERATURE ON CARP FISHING:
Stable water temperature is crucial. Carp are less active in excessively cold or warm water but become feeding machines in more temperate temperatures. Evening, night, and early morning hours often yield the most bites, as lower temperatures and increased oxygen levels prevail. Ideal water temperatures range from 47 to 57 degrees Fahrenheit (8 to 14 degrees Celsius) in Autumn/Winter and 60 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 22 degrees Celsius) in Spring/Summer.

During winter, carp gather in deeper, slower-cooling areas of the lake, so targeting these zones increases your chances of success.

AIR PRESSURE’S EFFECT ON CARP FISHING:
Barometric pressure significantly influences carp behavior. Low or gradually falling barometric pressure is optimal. After an extended period of high pressure, a pressure drop (preferably over several days) can trigger increased carp activity and feeding due to reduced pressure on their swim bladder.

Understanding air pressure is essential for optimal carp fishing weather. High-pressure systems in winter bring clear skies and cold temperatures, less favorable for fishing. In contrast, low-pressure systems, characterized by cloudiness and warmth, create better conditions for carp fishing.

WIND CONDITIONS FOR CARP FISHING:
While wind direction isn’t the most critical factor, windy conditions can benefit carp fishing. Ripples on the water reduce light visibility, allowing carp to feed more confidently. Agitated surface water absorbs more oxygen, and wind pushes food supplies toward the margins, attracting carp.

Southern or southwesterly breezes, often warmer and coinciding with lower air pressure and moderate temperatures, are ideal for carp fishing.

CLOUD COVER’S IMPACT ON CARP FISHING:
An overcast sky with dense clouds is favorable for carp fishing. Clouds reduce underwater visibility, making cautious carp feel more comfortable. Heavy cloud cover retains warmth, moderating the ratio of daylight to nighttime temperatures in air and water, keeping carp active for longer.

UTILIZE A WEATHER APP:
While we can’t always plan around the weather, monitoring forecasts is crucial to understand the optimal carp fishing weather conditions. Apps like XC Weather provide reliable information on air pressure, wind direction, and rain, aiding anglers in planning their sessions.

While not universally applicable, understanding and leveraging weather conditions can significantly improve carp fishing outcomes. The described conditions consistently yield success for many carp fishermen, as carp behavior remains consistent across locations. Whether you’re a novice or exploring new fishing spots, fishing in these conditions increases the likelihood of landing your first carp. Best of luck and tight lines!

catching more carp

Tips for catching more carp, without spending a dime

Carp fishing can be an expensive hobby. But before you rush out to buy the latest gadget or gizmo, take a look at these tips to help you become a better angler – for free and you will be catching more carp!

Observe
Always watch the water and make sure that you don’t just drop in the first swim that you find when you arrive at the venue. Take time to walk around the lake and keep an eye on the water at all times. Look for any signs of fish, such as bubbling coming up in the water that can indicate the fish are feeding on the bottom. A fish jumping out is another indication. Also, look for a little ripple of rings that could be where their dorsal fin just leaves the water and leaves a little reflection. It’s obviously a lot harder when it’s windier, but spending the time walking around the lake, looking, will help you find the fish. If you find the fish and you’re getting a swim near them, you’re much more likely to catch them. Don’t forget to look for signs of fish in the open water, as well as right in the edges under a tree and in the margins.

Research the Venue
If it’s your first time going to a venue, do your research first. There is so much information available online, and the first place to go is YouTube. Search the venue name, and you’ll find lots of videos available where you can pick up some tips about where the good areas are and other bits of advice from anglers who fish there regularly. Go to the website of the fishery, and you’ll most likely find write-ups where other anglers have said how they’ve caught fish on zigs or where they caught fish on the bottom. You might even get a bit more information about the depth of the lake, which is the deeper end, and which is the shallower end.

Check the Weather
One topic that we love to talk about in the US is the weather, and there are plenty of apps available that you can download to get accurate forecasts. Understanding the weather conditions while you’re at the lake is one of the best pieces of advice to help you catch more carp.

One such app is Windy, which tells you which direction the wind is blowing and how it will change every hour during your session. For instance, if you have a nice Southwesterly wind coming that’s warm, then quite often the fish will follow this wind if it’s blowing into the one corner that’s a good chance where the fish are going to be. However, if it’s a Northerly wind, it tends to be really cold, so sometimes you will find the fish on the back of this wind.

Also, and this may sound completely obvious, but understanding the weather will also have an effect on what you need to wear to make sure you’re comfortable in all conditions while on the bank – sometimes the obvious tips are the best ones!”.

Master Your Accuracy
Tip number four is to master your accuracy. This is something that can only come with time and practice. Therefore, it’s a good idea to keep a rod with a reel and a lead in your car, so anytime you get an hour, you can get down to a lake and practice casting at the same marker in the distance or even over to the far margin. Another way to be accurate is to learn how to wrap up. Once you can wrap up and once you’ve found your spot, you know that you will always be casting into exactly the same area. This means that you can accurately bait the same spot and then place your rig exactly over the bait, increasing your chance of a catch massively.

Learn How to Feel the Lead Down
This is also called looking for the ‘donk’ and is a technique that takes a bit of practice. However, once mastered, it will give you valuable information about how your lead is sitting and the nature of the lake bed. When you cast out your rod, keep your line tight as the lead hits the water. As the lead falls through the water, you will feel a slightly different sensation when the lead hits the bottom. For instance, if the lake bed is firm, you will feel a ‘donk’ sensation through the rod. If you feel it very lightly, then it’s an indication that there could be silt. If you don’t feel anything, then you are definitely in some thick weed. The sensation is always felt best when using braid on your spod and marker rods.

Maintain Your Gear
Keeping your gear clean is crucial not just for protecting your carp fishing essentials but also for optimal performance. For instance, ensure the rod’s eyes stay dirt-free to prevent casting issues, and run your line through a towel when reeling in to eliminate any sediment.

After using bite alarms, ensure they’re dry before stowing them to prevent moisture from causing malfunctions during your next session. Maintaining clean gear not only ensures its longevity but also enhances your comfort on the bank.

Organize Your Tackle Bag
Maximize your fishing time by keeping your tackle bag well-organized, ensuring quick access to hooks, leads, lead clips, and other terminal tackle. A designated place for everything streamlines rig adjustments after a bite or when switching tactics, making your fishing experience more efficient, even in the middle of the night.

catching more carp

Be Ready
Always be prepared for the specific lake you’re fishing. Have pre-tied rigs and ready-tied PVA bags to minimize time spent preparing and maximize time spent fishing.

Put in the Effort
While the closest peg to the car park may be popular, exploring more distant pegs can pay off, as they receive less fishing pressure. Putting in the effort to walk around the lake can lead to better results. Stay flexible and be willing to move to where the fish are, even if it means packing down and setting up elsewhere.

catching more carp

Be Courteous
One of the most, if not THE most important tip, is to be nice and polite to fellow anglers and lake bailiffs. Building good relationships can provide valuable information that can give you an edge. Bailiffs often possess extensive knowledge about the lake, so take the time to chat, offer them a drink, and you might gain insights that make a difference. Remember, manners cost nothing!

Summary
These tips, whether obvious or simple, can help you catch more fish without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned angler, continuous learning is key to success in carp fishing!

Importance of Location

The Importance of Location

The Importance of Location: This article primarily focuses on Carp fishing in cold water, but the principles can be applied throughout the year.

The two most crucial elements for successful angling are timing and the importance of location. Even with the best bait and rigs, without being in the right place at the right time, your efforts may be futile.

Locating carp during the colder months can be challenging. Several factors can either work in your favor or against you. These include the size of the lake, stock, depth, climate, angling pressure, bait restrictions, club or syndicate rules, and the ever-present factor of “time”. All these factors can either increase or decrease your chances of getting bites.

Keeping things as simple as possible is essential. Here are five basic rules I follow for winter fishing:

  1. Observation
  2. Listening
  3. Feeling
  4. Tight Lines and Angles
  5. Pre-Baiting

Observation:

Staying alert and keeping a keen eye out is crucial! Even a minor sighting can contribute to a larger understanding. Look for the obvious signs – shows, bubbling, and cleared areas that indicate fish activity. Also, pay attention to what others are catching, as fish tend to stay localized, meaning they won’t move far if they’re comfortable.

Importance of Location

Listening:

As we transition into Autumn and the clocks adjust, so do the patterns of carp showing. It seems that the lake comes alive after dark. Although it’s challenging to see the shows in the dark, our hearing tends to compensate for the lack of vision, making us more attuned to the slightest sounds. Sometimes, it can be beneficial to not set up before dark (unless there’s obvious evidence), and let the carp reveal their location. By walking around and listening for shows, you can gain an advantage.

Feeling:

Using a bare lead on a braided line rod, you can feel the areas of the lake bed that the fish visit regularly. It’s not about clean, bumpy gravel areas. It’s about soft, clean, odorless silty areas rich in naturals.

Importance of Location

Once you find these zones, the carp won’t be far away. Also, when it’s cold and the fish start to group together, casting around with a light lead can help you feel it drop through the layers and locate the carp in higher stocked venues. A few casts in each swim as you walk around the lake might just lead you to bump into one on the way down, revealing their location.

Tight Lines and Angles:

Fishing a reasonable distance out into the lake with tight lines can not only provide a chance of a bite but also give you an indication if the carp are moving around. If they are, you’ll receive liners, allowing you to bring your rig in and recast shorter. If the liners continue, repeat the process until they stop. It’s a simple, old-fashioned method, but it works!

Pre-Baiting:

When all other strategies fail and you need a reliable backup, consider consistently baiting one or two areas, this always provides the chance to fish in spots that have been baited before.

I’m not suggesting massive amounts, I’m referring to a frequent but small quantity. The birds and fish will provide all the information you need about your baited spot. If birds are continuously diving in that area, the bait is still present, and you haven’t had any bites from the fish. Conversely, fizzing and a change in feel on the spots will indicate that they are being visited.

Importance of Location

Importance of location: I’m convinced that after three or four visits you start to form an image of where the fish are located, if you start to receive regular bites from a specific area, keep trying your luck, if it’s not broken don’t fix it! But trust your instincts and confidence is crucial, for pinpointing the right location. Once found, the fish can often be caught.

In January, I embarked on a small campaign on a local club ticket water, which I estimate is 6 to 7 acres, with a large population of fish, varying depths and high pressure. There’s a 45lb plus common in there, which can be like finding a needle in a haystack. So, location was crucial. I took all my factors into account and saw another angler catch it. I was sure due to the time of year it wouldn’t move far as it was content there. I started to fish in that area, when I could get in there. And sure enough…. The rest is history…. 45lb 15oz of pristine UK Common.

Enjoy your winter campaigns folks, catch a big one! ~ Jim Chisnall