ADAM
PENNING’s
RIG TUTORIAL
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Prologic’s Last Meter range of terminal tackle
provides every component you could ever
possibly need to construct any rig.
In noticing just how far rig evolution has grown in the
past decade in terms of mechanics and concealment,
Prologic’s Brand and Product Manager, Enrico Parmeggiani
called upon the collective expertise of his professional
angling staff to help develop a fine-tuned, comprehensive
range of terminal tackle to cater for the angler who goes
the extra mile when it comes to their ‘Last Meter’.
It took two solid years of development, testing, tweaking
(and then more testing and tweaking!) before the
range was finally given Enrico’s seal of approval.
Each component in the range is manufactured entirely
in-house via our very own production facility. This gives
us complete control over material sourcing, production
quality and the entire development process, allowing
us to design, produce and offer unique alternatives
to a highly competitive terminal tackle market.
With the help of our Senior Consultant and
renowned big carp chaser, Adam Penning, we’re
delighted to present our first ever Rig Guide!
Rather than bombard you with a flurry of over-complicated
rigs, we pitched several common scenarios often faced by
anglers to Adam and asked him to nominate the perfect rig
solution for each situation. In addition, we’ve also included an
illustrative step-by-step guide on how to construct each rig.
We hope this booklet helps you add
some bonus fish to the bank!
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Hoox
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Tools
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Leaders
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Downforce
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Braided Hooklinks
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Mono Hooklinks
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NEW Minicry 3D
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Location
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Fishing Over Gravel
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Fishing Over Silt
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Fishing Over Weed
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Fishing at Distance
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Zig Rigs
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River Fishing Europe
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Boat Fishing Europe
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A Guide to Fish Care
Be lucky!
From all at Team Prologic.
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The brand new HOOX range has been designed, developed and manufactured entirely
in-house via our own hook-making facility. This allows us to ensure that only the very
best materials are used and only the highest production quality acceptable.
Manufactured using a high-grade CC-83 Japanese
Carbon Steel Wire for minimal flexibility and maximum
strength, this material plays a key role in the ‘stickysharpness’ and improved lifespan of our hook-points.
Even after several captures, HOOX retain their ‘out of the
packet’ sharpness.
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As with all items in the Last Meter range,
each hook pattern has undergone
rigorous field testing before commencing
with production.
XCI
XC2
XC3
XC5
XC7
XC8
The slightly offset beaked hook-point of the
XC1 aids hook rotation. This coupled with
a 13 degree in-turned eye ensures that
the point turns to catch hold as quickly as
possible before the fish has chance to eject
the hookbait. The beak protects the hookpoint from blunting when fishing over gravel
and also dramatically reduces hook-pulls.
Our answer to the classic long-shank
pattern, the XC2 is one of our most
versatile patterns in the range.
The XC3 is a wide-gape style pattern
with a straight eye that is better suited for
stiffer hooklink materials such as thick
monofilament or fluorocarbon.
The curved nature of the XC7 pattern
coupled with a 3-degree in-turned
eye causes the hook-point to flip
and catch hold instantly.
The XC8 is our dedicated ‘stiff rig’ hook.
Perfect for rigs that incorporate soft and
supple hooklinks such as solid bag rigs.
Suitable for both pop-up style rigs and
bottom bait presentations, the XC2 is
commonly used for blow-back style rigs
that incorporate a rig ring along the shank.
The super-strong XC5 may look similar
in appearance to the XC3 pattern, but
features a few minor tweaks that make a
huge difference. Primarily developed for
targeting snaggy ‘hit’n hold’ situations, the
XC5 features a thicker gauge wire for added
strength in addition to a 15-degree in-turned
eye and beaked hook-point for greater hook
rotation and improved hook-hold properties.
Hoox
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Featuring a 25-degree in-turned eye
and straight hook-point, the extended
shank transfers weight towards the end
of the hook, dramatically improving hook
rotation and in turn, greater hook rates.
The straight eye ensures the gape remains
as wide as possible for a greater ‘claw’
effect when the fish picks up the hookbait.
The perfect choice for stiff style D-rigs or the
‘Bottom-Bait Chod Rig’.
Perfect for standard bottom bait rigs that
incorporate supple or semi-stiff hooklinks
such as Reptilian Coated Braid or Super
Snake FS.
Features a straight hook-point and
medium-length shank for added strength.
A popular choice for rigs that use
supple or semi-stiff hooklink materials
such as the combi-rig, incorporating
a rig ring along the shank.
Features a 20-degree out-turned
eye to compensate for stiff hooklink
materials exiting the eye, ensuring the
gape remains as wide as possible
for a maximum ‘claw’ effect.
Use the XC8 pattern for all stiff-style pop-up
rigs such as the Chod or MK2 Multi-Rig.
Hoox
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TOOLS....
READY-MADE LEADERS
As with rigs, leaders and lead arrangements can differ in
functionality in order suit the situation at hand to give us optimal
presentation in our bid to trip up our wise old quarry.
However, leaders can also pose a significant risk to fish if used incorrectly
and can work against us when placed in the wrong situation.
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For both safety and convenience, we have included a range of Ready Made Leaders that are good to
go straight from the packet, each professionally constructed using components from the Last Meter
range. Available in a Metal Core version that contains a heavy inner metal lining or as a quick-sinking,
super-supple ‘Hollow Core’ that hugs the contours of the lakebed for perfect concealment.
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Boilie Lip Needle
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Safety gate latch needle for attaching hookbaits and
threading hooklinks through small PVA sticks or bags.
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From a safety aspect, this allows the lead
to run free in the event of a line break to
minimise the amount of tackle the fish tows.
Twisting Bait Drill
Drills hard baits such as nuts and pellets with two-part
twisting handle for ease of use.
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Another benefit of this setup is that fish
are unable to use the weight of the lead
to shake the hook from its mouth as
the line passes through the ring. This
can sometimes prove to be an edge
on pressured waters and help you
land more fish.
Big Bait Drill
Bores out baits such as boilies and tiger nuts. Insert foam
stick and trim to size for a critically balanced hookbait.
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Pro Braid Scissors
Cuts cleanly through all types of hooklink material
effortlessly.
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Compact Scissors
On baron venues that contain little or no
hazardous snags such as weed, a running
rig maybe the most suitable option.
This leader features a soft, rubberised
sleeve for the run ring to grip onto. When
force is applied from the rig end the run
ring disengages and allows the leader and
mainline to run through the ring easily while
the lead remains stationary on the lakebed.
Stringer Lip Needle
Extended safety gate latch needle for attaching hookbaits,
stringers and threading hooklinks through large PVA
sticks or bags.
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Running Rig Leader
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Helicopter Style
Leader
Ideal for fishing at distance due to its superb
anti-tangle properties, allowing the rig full
rotation in-flight. The lead is attached at the
very end while the rig can be offset at any
distance by adjusting the beads attached to
the leader material. This is also regarded as
one of the safer setups and the rig is able
to travel off the leader in the event of a line
break, leaving very little for the fish to tow.
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Leadclip Leader
Ideal for snaggy, weedy waters where
losing the lead on the take is imperative to
increase chances of landing the fish. When
force is applied from the rig end of the
leader, the leadclip ejects the lead to allow
you direct contact with the fish and give
you much greater control during the fight.
In the event of a line break, the lead will
automatically release itself from the clip
when met with resistance from weed or
excess force from the fish shaking its head.
It is vital to ensure that the lead clip is
lubricated before applying the tail rubber
and that the rubber isn’t pushed on too
far. Additionally, the tail rubber should
have enough purchase to withstand
the rig entering the water on the cast
without ejecting the lead on impact.
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Super sharp compact scissors for trimming hookbaits or
cutting through braid and mono hooklinks.
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Hair Controller
Handy tool for achieving the perfect length of hair.
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Tools
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Leaders
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Anti Tangle Rig Sleeves
Rig concealment is one of the most vital aspects
of carp fishing. As carp fishing continues
to grow in popularity, angling pressure at
many venues is at an all-time high.
Fits neatly over swivels to protect knots and
eliminate tangles on the cast by pushing
the rig away from the lead in flight.
The increase in pressure means that fish are fully aware
they are being angled for and to outwit our quarry requires
something a little different at the business end.
Perfect for protecting hooklink knots
between materials such as combirigs and the MK2 Multi Rig.
Thanks to the diversity of tungsten-impregnated terminal
tackle, we’re now able to stay one step ahead and fine-tune
the mechanics of our rigs accordingly, concealing any visible
‘danger signs’ by pinning everything down onto the lake bed.
Our Downforce range of tungsten-based terminal items
provides all components needed to take rig concealment to
the next level. Each Downforce component is manufactured
using large percentages of high density tungsten in its
mixes for added weight and maximum concealment.
Micro Rig Sleeves
Tungsten Putty Kit
Kit contains three colours to match various
substrates such as gravel, weed and
silt. Moulds easily around knots to keep
everything pinned down and allows you to
fine-tune the buoyancy of hookbaits.
Ultragrip Bead
A grip bead for use on chod rigs, helicopter
rigs and as a shock bead for running rigs.
Chod Drop Beads
A two part buffer bead designed
for all helicopter style setups such
as chod rigs. Suitable for use on
leaders and naked monofilament.
Drop Beads
A tapered bore allows you to safely
semi-fix the beads along leader materials.
In the event of your line breaking, the
drop bead is easily released, allowing
the rig to run free of the leader and
lead to prevent damage to the fish.
Anti Tangle Tubing
Eliminates tangles, protects the line and
flanks of fish during the fight. The perfect
alternative on venues where fixed leaders
are banned, keeping everything pinned
down out of view and contact.
HOOKLINKS
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Drop Sinkers
A multitude of uses. Use as a stop bead for
naked chods or pin down rigs and mainlines
for a perfectly concealed presentation.
Available in standard and mega sizes.
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Downforce
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Hooklinks
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BRAIDED HOOKLINKS
MONO HOOKLINKS
Viper Ultra Soft
Mimicry 3D Mirage Mono
Super-supple and sinks like a brick! This eight-strand HMPE braid is mixed with high-density
PL fibres that simply plummets through the water and pins itself perfectly to the lakebed
contours for optimum presentation. Features a two-tone green camo for added concealment.
Taking rig concealment to dizzy new heights! Mimicry 3D Mirage is the first mono hooklink of
its kind to feature a broken camouflaged pattern, blending perfectly over any type of lakebed.
Available in 15lb, 25lb and 35lb on 15m spools.
Use the super-supple lower diameters for smaller, lighter baits such as maggots or corn,
and the stronger, thicker gauge versions to create the ultimate camouflaged stiff rig.
Available in 20lb, 25lb, 30lb and 35lb versions on 40m spools
Viper 3S
Viper 3S is a high-density braid consisting of fibres that are interwoven with
a special PE fibre an anti-friction treatment for improved knot strength,
greater abrasion resistance and super-fast sinking properties.
Being slightly stiffer than Viper Ultra Soft, it lends itself to longer rigs for reduced tangles and
improved presentation at distance. The three-tone green camo finish blends into the lake bed.
Add its sinking properties and it offers absolute discretion.
Available in 15lb, 20lb, 30lb and 40lb versions on 15m spools
Pro Chod Mono
This clear, high memory monofilament is super-stiff and easily manipulated to create the
perfect curve on chod style rigs or steamed as straight as an arrow for boom sections.
Features superb knot strength and extreme abrasion resistance,
leaving nothing to chance during the fight.
Available in 22lb, 28lb, 33lb and 38lb versions on 25m spools
Reptilian Coated
A high-density PE fibre with a semi-stiff coating, perfect for creating rigs that incorporate a hinge
effect such as combi-rigs.
The coating is easily strippable to expose a supple braided core for a multitude of
presentation options.
Finished in an earthy two-tone brown on both the coating and braided inner for maximum
camouflage properties.
Available in 15lb, 25lb and 35lb versions on 15m spools
Spectrum Z Fluorocarbon
Our new and improved Spectrum Z Fluorocarbon Hooklink has undergone a slight
recipe change to improve abrasion resistance and increase knot strength. A 100%
fluorocarbon that is perfect for creating stiff rigs and combi rigs.
Available in 22lb, 28lb, 37lb and 56lb versions on 25m spools
Super Snake FS
An extreme braid for extreme situations. This semi-soft uncoated braid contains
Aramid and PTFE fibres for ultimate abrasion resistance. Due to its highdensity, this sinks faster than nylon monofilament, helping to keep everything
pinned down and out of sight. Finished in a subtle matt-green.
Available in 15lb, 25lb, 35lb and 45lb versions on 15m spools
Spectrum Zig and Floater Special
A super-strong floating monofilament, specifically designed for zigs and surface fishing.
Low in diameter and clear in colour for maximum discreteness.
Superb knot strength and abrasion resistance.
Available in 13lb, 16lb, 18lb and 20lb versions on 100m spools
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Braided
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Mono Hooklinks
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NE
W
LAST METER COMPONENTS
Mimicry Safety Leadclip
Mimicry Flat Leadclip with Speedlink
Mimicry Distance Leadclip
• Designed to release the lead when snagged
• Designed to be used with speed links (included)
• Perfect for distance fishing with heavy leads
• For use with size 8 swivel
• Change your rig quickly and easily
• Designed to release the lead when snagged
• The swivel can be locked and fixed with the swivel pin
• Speed link can be locked in place with the pin
• For use with size 8 swivel
• Can be used with any size of lead
• The metal arm reduces twist, releases easier
and is stronger for bigger leads
• Designed to release the lead when snagged
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Mimicry
Last Meter
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Mimicry 3D Last Meter
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Mimicry Semi Fixed Rig Kit
Mimicry Naked Chod Rig System
• Can be used fixed or running style
• Grips monofilament perfectly for naked style setups
• Swivel can be locked using pins (included)
• Two part system
• Can be configured to release lead
• Slow sinking to settle over weed
• Multiple presentation options
Mimicry Micro Rig Sleeve
• Pushes the rig away from the lead
mid-flight to eliminate tangles
• Covers quick-change clips
• Produces a neat protected rig
• 10cm tailrubber with short
anti-tangle tube built in
• For use with size 8 swivel
• Can be used as line aligner for long
shank hooks
• Ideal for distance fishing with
‘naked’ (no leader) style setups
• Slim design for better presentation
• Protecting knots
Mimicry Anti-Tangle
Tailrubber
• Parallel swivel chamber reduces
damage from quick links
• Eliminates tangles mid-flight
• Fits Prologic Quick Change
Swivels perfectly
• Can be used as shock
absorber for Chod rigs
• Can be used with all lead clip systems
• Slow sinking
• Protect knots
• Superb anti-tangle properties
Mimicry Helicopter/
Chod Buffer
Mimicry Drop-Off Lead
Buffer
Mimicry Chod DropOff Lead Sleeve
Mimicry Grip Tail Beads
Mimicry Gripper Beads
Mimicry Buffer Beads
• Long tail beads for increased grip
• Ideal for running rigs and helicopter rigs
• Shock absorber sleeve
• Ideal for anti-tangle tube and leaders
• Universal bead for use on running rigs,
chod rigs and helicopter rigs
• Shock absorbing
• Two part chod buffer
• For use with helicopter style
setups such as chod rigs
• Thick but soft construction
• Soft durable material
• Shock absorber
• Perfect for helicopter style
setups such as chod rigs
• Can be configured to release lead
• Can be configured to release lead
• Use running style on naked mono
• Semi-fixed when used
with leader material
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Mimicry Anti-Tangle
Rig Sleeve
Mimicry
Last Meter
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• Shock absorber
• Tapered hole is designed to slide over
knots in the event of the line breaking
• Available in small and large
• For use on running rigs, chod rigs and
helicopter rigs
• The larger hole is designed to protect
the knot
• For use with a size 8 swivel or quick
change link
Mimicry 3D Last Meter
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Mimicry Line
Aligner Sleeve
• Protect knots
• Produce a neat and protected
hook presentation
• Improves hook rotation for
improved hook holds
• Adjust the length by trimming
to required size
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Mimicry Anti-Tangle Tubing
Mirage Loop Leaders
• Tubing to protect the line, the fish and
reduce tangles
• Sinking
• Perfect alternative to leaders
• Can be used with all types of rigs
• Superb blending properties against all
types of lakebed change link
• Soft construction-adapt to any contour
of the bottom
• Superb blending properties against all
types of lakebed
• Loop at both ends
• Extreme abrasion resistance
• Available in large and medium
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Mimicry
Last Meter
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Mimicry 3D Last Meter
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LOCATION
You could have the ‘best rig and bait in the world’, but if there
are no fish nearby, you won’t catch them. Simply put, this aspect
of carp fishing is THE most vital part for us to get right.
Sure we can get occasionally lucky by pitching up
in a swim near the car park or one that has a nice
view and a flat area for the bed, but placing all
our hopes on convenience rather than actual fish
location will leave us with a dry net all too often.
Watercraft is often whispered about as if it is
some sort of ‘dark art’ or Jedi skill – it isn’t! All
watercraft consists of is looking and listening to
our surroundings and then reacting accordingly.
Sounds simple? Well, it is but it does require
effort and patience – the two elements that
anglers who are often preoccupied on the quick
route to success are not keen to put in.
The secret to successful carp fishing is not in
a packet, in a box or on a DVD – it is inside
YOU. You are the key to your fishing success
and if you are willing to take time looking for
and locating the fish then from that alone,
your catch rate will soar, I promise you!
Dawn: Get to the lake as early
as you can; just before first light is
best. Try and watch the lake from
a single position (instead of long
walks between swims where you
can’t see anything through the
trees) – one that allows you to see
as much of the water as possible.
Look for big, oily swirls, tips of
heads and noses as carp slide
silently out of the water. When it
starts to get light, look for areas of
fizzing as it is nearly always flat
calm at dawn. Additionally, areas of
large frothy bubbles trapped in the
surface film can often betray a zone
where the carp have been leaping
and feeding earlier in the night.
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Location
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Birdlife: Nervous bird life is
Remember: The more you look,
the more you see. The more you
see, the more you know. The more
you know, the more you will catch!
It is ALL about looking for signs
and then positioning yourself
accordingly. Your eyes are like a
muscle – the more you exercise
them, the stronger they get and
the more you will start to notice.
On many lakes, even well stocked
ones, whole areas can be devoid
of carp – it is imperative that you
search out the areas of activity and
then approach them accordingly.
Good luck!
another good one and following
the shrill alarm of a spooked coot
has caught me many carp.
Location
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WAFTER RIG
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GRAVEL
Gravel is one of the most pronounced and easiest of features to locate with
the aid of some decent polarising sunglasses or a marker rod setup and is
often the preferred substrate to target due to its clear and firm properties,
allowing rigs to be presented neatly without hindering mechanics.
Finding small areas of gravel on predominantly soft or weedy lakebeds can often indicate
feeding hotspots where sediment has been cleared away by feeding fish.
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LOCATING GRAVEL:
In bright and sunny conditions on clear-water venues, try
gaining a high (but safe) vantage point in the surrounding
trees. This will often reveal entire areas of gravel, allowing
you to watch if or how fish approach the area.
Strip approx. 3” of coating from
Reptilian Coated to expose the braid
and tie a small loop.
If visual location is not possible, explore features above
the surface such as islands, points and channels between
weed beds with a marker rod setup. Venues that contain
weed up to the surface will allow you to see where a
weed bed ends as the lakebed changes in format. These
areas are definitely worth investigating with the marker
rod using a bare lead attached to a braided mainline.
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Simply drag the lead back across the lakebed slowly
until a ‘purring’ sensation is felt through the rod tip, as the
lead bounces across gravel fragments. The lead should
travel unimpeded with zero resistance on the retrieve.
FISHING OVER GRAVEL
For large areas of gravel, try to locate the nearside edge of
the spot where the gravel meets weed or silt sediment. Gravel
patches are expanded by fish feeding on this surrounding
sediment on the outer edges as this is where the majority
of natural food is harboured. By presenting a rig on the
nearside edge, your rig will not only be presented effectively,
but will also place itself directly in the vicinity of the carp’s
likely next feeding area. Another major benefit of presenting
a rig near to the edge of a spot is that any excess mainline
will be hidden from view, posing no threat to visiting fish.
Ideally, locating more ‘subtle’ areas of gravel will pose far less
risk to passing fish. I have often found that larger stamp of
fish will feed comfortably on smaller, less blatant patches of
gravel. Finding and presenting a bait accurately on these spots
is obviously a lot more difficult and will require practice.
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Fishing
Over
Gravel
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PRESENTATION
As with all rigs you are looking to
achieve an accessible, concealed
and tangle-free presentation.
Gravel is one of the easiest areas to
effectively present a rig over, therefore your
main focus should be concealment.
Add your wafter hookbait and attach
hook via a knotless knot, leaving a
20mm gap between the bait and
hook and 30mm of uncoated braid
behind the hook eye.
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Slide 10mm of silicone tubing over
the hook eye and angle slightly.
Add a small drop of tungsten putty
where coating starts.
Thread a small piece of silicone
tubing and an XC1 Hook, trapping
the braid to the hook.
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Thread a Downforce Anti-Tangle Sleeve onto hooklink before attaching to the
Quick-Change Ring Swivel.
Test your rig in the margin. If necessary, add/remove putty until the bait sinks
slightly slower than a normal freebie and ensure the hook point faces outward,
away from the lead.
In this scenario, I would favour the Wafter
Rig. The idea being that the rig lays
completely flat and pinned to the deck using
small drops of tungsten putty, whilst the
critically-balanced wafter hookbait hovers
above the hook, masking it from view.
Due to the weightless nature of wafters,
minimal effort is required for a feeding fish
to pick up the hookbait along with the rig.
Fishing Over Gravel
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MULTI-RIG MKII
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SILT
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Often avoided and highly underrated, silt is home to
a variety of natural life such as bloodworm and fly
hatches and is often found in older, mature waters.
Take 6” of Pro Chod Mono in
0.53mm and fold in half.
Silt is formed when dead materials such as leafs and weed break
down and decay. The resulting sediment is carried and deposited
by the lake’s tow to a particular area, accumulating over a period of
time to eventually form a silt bed that can vary in depth.
Locating beds or pockets of silt on predominantly gravel or weedy
lakes are certainly worth targeting as these spots can offer a
smaller but concentrated area of natural food.
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Form a smaller loop at the desired
length of the main loop using the
tag ends.
LOCATING SILT:
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Older, deeper silt is usually black in
colour and carries an unpleasant
‘rotten egg’ like smell. Carp will
still happily feed amongst this
form of silt but where possible, I
prefer to target the finer, ‘cleaner’
silt. Distinguishing silt from clay
or sand can be difficult due to its
smooth, non-textured nature.
The best way to separate the three
is by feeling the lead down on a
tight line before landing with a firm
‘thud’. When pulling the rod back,
you should initially feel a light
resistance with the rod tip taking
on a slight curve before the lead
unplugs itself from the lakebed,
followed by little or no resistance
as the lead glides smoothly and
effortlessly. The stronger the initial
resistance the deeper the silt, but
ideally the lead should pull free with
minimal force from the rod tip.
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Fishing
Over
Silt
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PRESENTATION
As with all rigs you are looking to
achieve an accessible, concealed
and tangle-free presentation.
FISHING OVER SILT
Presenting a pop-up style rig over
silt will ensure your hookpoint
remains unhindered by any lakebed
debris such as leaves. I tend to
use rigs at around 8” in length,
adjusting them slightly longer
depending on the depth of silt. This
extra length ensures that the rig is
not pulled into the silt by the lead
upon impact and leaves enough
material for the rig to sit flat along
the surface.
In this scenario I’ll always opt for a
MK Multi-Rig presentation, fished
with a pop-up. The pop-up section
is kept to a minimal length, as
near to the lakebed as possible.
Pass the mono loop through the
front of the hook eye and slide
on a medium-sized rig ring. Tip:
use a fine braid or floss to pull
the mono through the eye.
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4
Take a section of Reptilian Coated
Braid and remove 3” of coating to
expose the inner braid and pass
through the smaller loop.
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Pass the mono loop over
the hook-point.
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Whip around the main loop seven
times and three times back on itself
before passing back through the
smaller loop. Lubricate and bed
knot down before pulling tight.
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Using a bait drill, form a ‘D’ on the
shank of the hook. Use hooklink to
tension the loop and steam to keep
its shape.
Use the hook to gauge the length of
loop needed
6
Ensure there is a 1” uncoated
section behind the finished knot.
This allows 360 movement of
the hook.
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Add a short section of silicone
tubing the protect the knot and
a drop of tungsten putty where
coating starts.
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The stiff coated boom section
eliminates tangles and is adjusted
in length depending on the depth
of the silt for perfect rig lay.
Another benefit of the MK2
Multi-Rig is that the hook can be
easily changed if needed, without
having to retie the entire rig.
Thread a Downforce Anti-Tangle Sleeve
and attach a Quick-Change Ring
Swivel.
Lasso the pop-up with bait floss and
tie to rig ring using a series of
overhand knots before carefully
fusing tag-ends together with
a lighter.
•
Attach to a Helicopter style leader.
Adjust stop beads depending on
depth of silt.
Fishing Over Silt
25
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MICRO-CHOD RIG
WEED
1
2
It’s inevitable that at some point you will be faced with the
dreaded green stuff, especially on shallow, crystal clear waters
where sunlight can penetrate through to the lakebed.
Take 8” of Pro Chod Mono 0.53mm
and thread an XC8 hook.
On waters that become choked with weed during the summer months, there may
be no option but to present over it if a clear spot cannot be found.
It’s important to remember that weed is home to a vast portion of a carps
natural diet such as snails, shrimp and daphnia. Finding the right area
of weed to present a rig over can produce great results.
3
FISHING OVER WEED:
Whip around the tag-end and hook
shank four times with the loop and
pull the tag end semi-tight.
It goes without saying that a rig
presented near to weed on a firm,
clear substrate will allow for a
much better rig presentation. But,
when the entire lakebed appears to
be carpeted with weed and no clear
spots can be found, attempt to seek
out the shorter, low-lying weed.
LOCATING WEED:
On shallower waters, weed will
often reach the surface and can be
located visually. However, this may
not be the case in deeper water and
may require some work with the
marker rod to confirm.
In long and dense weed growth, it
may be difficult to feel the lead land
as the descent is highly cushioned.
The rod tip will also lock up tight
on the retrieve and may require
additional force before the lead
pulls free. The level of force required
to free the lead will indicate the
density of weed.
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Fishing
Over
Weed
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Using a marker rod, apply a series
of casts, feeling the lead down
each time until a positive landing
can be felt through the rod tip. The
firmer the landing, the shorter or
sparser the weed is likely to be.
Ideally the lead should travel
relatively unimpeded and
return with small amounts
of weed attached. Don’t be
alarmed if your rig comes back
covered in weed, this is likely
to happen on the retrieve.
Be wary of any dense weed
between you and your spot as
this can be hazardous when
playing fish. Using light leads
or an effective lead drop-off
system will drastically improve
your chances of landing a fish.
7
PRESENTATION:
As with all rigs you are
looking to achieve an
accessible, concealed and
tangle-free presentation.
In this situation, I favour the
Micro-Chod Rig which is similar
to the traditional chod rig but
features a short boom section.
This used in conjunction with
a helicopter setup allows me
to adjust the distance between
the lead and rig in order to
present on top of the weed.
Attach a size 12 ring swivel
via a 1-2 turn blood knot and
curve mono between fingers
until hook-point sits parallel.
9
Add a small drop of tungsten putty
to the boom knot nearest to the size
12 ring swivel.
4
Rotate the knot until both sides of
the knot run parallel with the hook
and tease down to the hook eye
before lubricating and pulling tight
using a puller tool.
5
Thread a medium-sized rig ring
onto the tag-end before passing
back through the hook eye to
create a ‘D’.
Using the tag end that exits the
back of the hook, form a loop
against the shank
6
Set size of ‘D’ to desired size before
trimming the tag-end and carefully
blobbing with a lighter to secure
8
Tie a 2” boom section using Pro
Chod Mono 0.53m to the ring
section and attach a size 10 ring
swivel at the opposite end using
2-turn blood knots.
10
Lasso your chosen pop-up using
bait floss and attach to the rig ring
via a series of overhand knots.
Carefully fuse tag ends with a
lighter.
Test the rig buoyancy in the
margin before casting, adjusting
tungsten putty until rig descends
slowly through the water.
Fishing Over Weed
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BOTTOM BAIT
CHOD RIG
1
DISTANCE
Take 8” of Pro Chod Mono 0.53mm
and thread an XC8 hook..
As mentioned earlier in this booklet, fish
location should always dictate your choice
of swim and rig position on any venue.
On large and pressured waters, it’s not uncommon for fish to seek
sanctuary further out into the lake, away from the endless crashing of
spods and leads.
Of course finding a suitable spot to target in this scenario can be a tricky
dilemma. Do you risk spooking the fish by thrashing a lead around in
order to find an ideal spot? Or do you risk poor rig presentation? After
all, a poorly presented rig that’s embedded within a tonne of weed isn’t
going to do you any favours either.
Personally, I prefer to make a mental note of the spot using a visual
marker on the horizon and wait for fish activity to cease before exploring
the area with a marker rod.
Whether it’s silt, gravel or even short weed, providing that I
can drag the lead back unimpeded I’m confident that my rig
will be presented effectively, ready for when fish return to the area.
3
Whip around the tag-end and hook
shank four times with the loop and
pull the tag end semi-tight.
7
4
Rotate the knot until both sides of
the knot run parallel with the hook
and tease down to the hook eye
before lubricating and pulling tight
using a puller tool.
5
Take 3” of Viper 3S braid and tie a
small hair loop to a medium-sized
ring swivel.
2
Using the tag end that exits the
back of the hook, form a loop
against the shank.
6
Attach your hookbait and thread
rig ring onto the hook, securing
with a Hook Shank Bead parallel
to the barb.
Attach to a Helicopter Leader.
PRESENTATION
As with all rigs you are looking to achieve an accessible,
concealed and tangle-free presentation.
Aggressive casts can often leave rigs prone to tangles
and therefore a stiff-style rig with maximum antitangle properties is required. For this I use a fine-tuned
‘Bottom Bait Chod Rig’, fished helicopter style.
As the name suggests, this rig was discovered after
accidentally attaching a bottom bait to a traditional chod
rig. It was only when unhooking the resulting fish that
I discovered my ‘error’, but the hook hold suggested
that this rig was equally as effective on the deck.
The Bottom Bait Chod features a few minor tweaks to the
traditional buoyant setup such as a supple hair to increase hook
rotation and a small loop incorporated at the swivel end for added
movement, allowing the rig to be approached from any angle.
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Distance
Distance
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Tie a small ‘Perfect Loop
Knot’ or Figure of Eight Loop
running through the eye of
a size 8/10 ring swivel.
8
Form a slight curve in the Pro Chod
Mono using your fingers.
Fishing at Distance
29
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ZIG RIG
ZIGS
1
Zig rigs have dominated waters
in recent years and can add
bonus fish to the bank when
action slows down on the deck.
Zigs allow us to target the various water
columns by suspending a hookbait in
mid-water, imitating the water’s natural
critters such as flies and beetles.
Using Spectrum Zig & Floater
Special, tie a small hair loop before
cutting hooklink to desired length.
3
Thread a small piece of Silicone
Tubing and an XC5 Hook, trapping
the mono to the hook.
DEPTH:
32
PRESENTATION:
INDICATION:
For weedier waters, don’t be afraid to use a section
of standard mainline and a large hook for extra
strength. Hooking a large carp is pointless if you’re
unable to control the fight and dropping the lead is
paramount to ensure direct contact with the fish.
Zig Rig
Set hair tight to the hook using the
Silicone Tubing and tie a knotless
knot.
5
Tie a Figure of Eight Loop at the
opposite end and thread a Tungsten
Anti-Tangle Sleeve.
Thread a Foam Twin Colour Ball
onto the hair loop and insert
boilie stop
6
Attach to a Lead Clip Leader
Test buoyancy in the margin
before casting.
It is important to understand the
depth of water you’re targeting in
order for you the adjust the length
of your Zig accordingly. This is
done using a marker float setup by
casting to an area and paying off
line one foot at a time until the float
reaches the surface from the lead.
Due to the extreme lengths of
hooklink used for Zigs, bite
registration is often very subtle.
Therefore it’s imperative to fish
‘bow-string’ tight lines with alarms
set to maximum sensitivity to help
emphasise bite indication. Heavy
bobbins will also help to register
drop-backs should the fish move
towards you.
4
2
Zigs are notorious for tangling on the cast. Casts should be
made slightly higher than normal and stopped immediately
before the lead enters the water in order to keep the long
hooklink separate from other components on the descend.
Like insects, Zigs are often ‘snatched’ at in mid-water
by carp. Therefore hookbaits should be kept tight to the
shank of the hook to maximise hooking potential.
Any buoyant hookbait can be used for zigs although I
personally use unflavoured black foam. The Foam Twin
Colour Balls offer the best of both worlds when targeting
mid to lower layers of the water in that the black section will
silhouette against the skyline whilst the bright coloured tip
will provide a fleck of visibility to any carp passing above.
Zig Rig
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RIVER
CARPING
WITH ENRICO PARMEGGIANI
Targeting river carp presents a whole new array of factors to take into
consideration such as strong currents, fluctuating water levels and
large snags that have been carried downstream during floods.
As always, fish location is the single most vital part of the process, but
with rivers spanning from tens to even hundreds of miles in length, this
can amount to some serious legwork before finding them. Prologic Brand
and Product Manager, Enrico Parmeggiani is no stranger to river carping
and has claimed his fair share of river secrets from all over Europe.
WHY TARGET RIVER CARP:
Rivers are packed full of surprises which
can often include huge, hard-fighting
monster carp. Due to the sheer distances
that rivers can span, it’s inevitable that
the majority of scaly river residents
may never have been caught before and
their existence is therefore unknown.
For the angler who is willing to put in
the extra effort, legwork and attention to
detail, the rewards are endless. That next
bite could result in a fish of a lifetime;
what could be more exciting than that?
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River
Fishing
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Europe
CHALLENGES: There are many aspects
to bear in mind when taking on rivers.
Flow and current can vary in different
stretches so it’s important to ensure that
you adjust your setup accordingly.
Heavier, ‘gripper’ style leads will help anchor
your rig and prevent it from being carried
downstream. If the flow wasn’t enough to take
into consideration, couple this with a large
powerful carp and you could be in for an armwrenching ride as the fish surges downstream.
Snags such as fallen trees and various other
debris can litter the riverbed, especially after heavy
flooding and therefore a strong, reliable mainline
is paramount to stay in control of the fight.
River Fishing Europe
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ENRICO’S
RIVER RIG
/Prologic_fishing
1
Take 6” of Super Snake FS. Tie a
medium rig ring to the end and
another 25mm behind it.
3
4
5
2
Pass the opposite end through the
back of an XC2 hook, passing the
hookpoint through the first rig ring.
6
PRESENTATION
In my years of targeting rivers, I’ve found
that my larger captures have come from
fast flowing water. As already mentioned,
in order to present a rig effectively in strong
currents everything must be scaled up
in strength and anchored with a heavy
lead (as heavy as needed). My rigs are
kept long (up to 50cm) in order for the
hookbait to act natural in the flow.
LOCATION: Be prepared to cover
miles of ground on foot before finding
the right spot to target. A comfortable
pair of walking boots and polarising
sunglasses are simply must have items!
River carp are very nomadic and can up
sticks and move in the blink of an eye.
Adopting a stealthy but mobile approach
will certainly put you in good stead and
allow you to cover greater distances
easily. As with still water venues, fish
sightings are the best indication. Features
such as weed beds and overhanging
trees are always worth investigating.
Many river systems incorporate weirs
and weir pools that produce masses of
oxygenated water. Areas below a weir
are usually slow flowing and allow for
easy rig presentation. On larger, deeper
sections of river where I can take to
the boat I’ll use my echo-sounder.
36
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River
Fishing
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Europe
Tie an 8-turn knotless knot.
7
Once joined, cut Mimicry 3D Mono
at a length of around 40cm.
9
Thread a Downforce Anti Tangle
Rig Sleeve onto mono tag end
followed by a figure-of-eight loop.
Thread on a Micro Rig Sleeve and
slide over the hook eye.
8
Form a loop in the end of Mimicry
3D Mono hooklink and pass
braided tag end through the loop,
trapping end of loop in line with the
end of the Micro Rig Sleeve.
Join materials using an
Albright Knot.
Attach to a standard lead
clip leader with a heavy
‘gripper’ style lead.
Thread on a Downforce Mega Drop
Sinker and position over knot between
the two materials.
10
Attach hookbait to the last rig ring
using bait floss. Carefully blob tag
ends with a lighter to secure.
River Fishing Europe
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For lakes that resemble inland oceans, taking to the boat (where permitted)
helps level out the playing field and allows you to explore unfished areas of
a lake that are out of casting range. Prologic’s Brand and Product Manager,
Enrico Parmeggiani talks us through his approach to boat fishing and why
this style of fishing presents a huge edge when taking on large waters.
BENEFITS OF BOAT FISHING: Taking to the boat gives access
to the entire lake and allows you to cover great distances quickly and
effortlessly. Weather conditions often dictate where the fish will be and
when conditions change during the session, it’s important to stay mobile
and react to these changes in order to maximise your chances of catching.
Rather than having to pack everything down, barrow to
the opposite end of the lake and set up again, it’s simply
a case of reeling in and boating to a new area.
Instead of leading around for features, you’re able to view them
in complete detail and place rigs onto even the most intricate of
spots accurately and ensure perfect presentation every time.
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Boating
Europe
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CHALLENGES AND RISKS
OF BOAT FISHING: Space
and comfort is definitely the first
challenge, especially if you’re
sharing a boat. Weather can
also cause problems and when
conditions become extreme I’ll to
return to land until conditions settle.
NEVER take to the boat without
an adequate life jacket, no
matter how confident you
may be as a swimmer.
BOAT
CARPING
WITH ENRICO PARMEGGIANI
Boat Fishing Europe
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BOAT RIG
LOCATION AND RIG PLACEMENT: As with all waters, the criteria is exactly
the same in terms of finding the fish and finding a presentable spot to place a rig.
1
2
Depending on the water clarity and depth of the lake, fish and features may be locatable
by sight. However, in deeper or cloudy water I will use the echo-sounder, but mainly
for locating suitable areas to place a rig and highlighting any large weed beds or
hazardous snags.
In flowing water I always anchor the boat close enough to the area for casting. Feeling
the lead down under tension prevents any excess line from being carried downstream by
the strong current and allows direct line lay to the rig for maximum bite detection.
On still water, I’m able to lower rigs directly onto spots and back away from the area
slightly. This ensures perfect rig presentation and complete accuracy. For flowing water
I will use my river rig in the previous section, but for still waters I tend to keep it simple
with a standard supple braid rig and snowman style hookbait whilst the bright coloured
tip will provide a fleck of visibility to any carp passing above.
Take around 10” of Vipe 3S
hooklink and tie a loop large
enough for your chosen hookbaits.
3
Tie a KD style knotless knot,
whipping above the hair 3 times
and twice below.
7
4
The hair should exit from the top of
the hook shank allowing the hook
to hang aggressively.
5
Thread on a Downforce Mega Drop
Sinker and place around 3” from
the hook.
Attach your hookbaits and set the
hair length around 20mm from the
bottom of the hook.
6
Thread a Downforce Anti Tangle
Sleeve and tie a figure-of-eight loop
knot at the end.
The finished rig should look like this. Test
the buoyancy of your hookbait before
placing the rig.
Attach to a Ready Made Running Rig leader
40
Boat
Fishing
Europe
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Boat Fishing Europe
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1
2
3
The fight is yours and the fish
is finally in the net! Secure your
landing net in the margin and
allow the fish to rest. Ensure
the fish cannot escape but has
enough depth to recover. Use this
time to prepare the unhooking
mat and zero the scales.
Collapse landing net and transfer
fish to your protective sling or mat.
Before lifting from the water, ensure
all fins are tucked flat to the body.
Lifting the sling whilst fins are
protruding away from the body can
cause serious damage to the fish.
Remove rig and apply STERI-7
XTRA Fish Care Spray to the
point of hooking. Be sure to
check for any other abrasions
across the fish’s body and
apply spray where needed.
Ensure that the fish is kept
hydrated at all times by regularly
applying lake water to the fish.
5
4
FISH
CARE
A high standard of fish care is everyone’s responsibility
and should take absolute priority at all times.
Adequately sized unhooking mats, slings, landing nets and antiseptic
are the basic tools for practicing good fish care, but using this
equipment both safely and correctly is vital for ensuring that our
sought after quarry remain fit and healthy for future captors to enjoy.
42
A
Guide toXXXXXXX
Fish Care
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When lifting for photography,
remain as low as possible,
ensuring the unhooking mat is
directly beneath the fish at all
times. If the fish kicks, lower onto
the unhooking mat until calm.
6
NEVER carry fish back to the
water by hand. Always use your
protective sling/mat, ensuring
both ends are zipped and fins are
tucked flat against the fish’s body.
Lower sling/mat into the water
and unzip the head end. Support
the fish by gently holding the
wrist of its tail, moving the fish
back and forth to allow water to
circulate through its gills. The fish
will kick free when it’s ready.
A Guide to Fish Care
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