Method feeder fishing for carp

The set-up

Use an in-line method feeder (20–40g) running on the main line, with a short 3 to 4 inch hooklink. Fish a quick-change bead or a hair-rigged band for your hookbait. Most commercials want barbless hooks, often size 12 to 16 for smaller carp.

The mix

Dampen 2mm micro pellets until they stick together, or use a sticky method groundbait. Mould it round the feeder with a mould so every cast is the same. Hookbaits: a small wafter, a 6 to 8mm pellet, corn or a dumbbell.

Accurate casting

Clip up the line once you find your distance, and cast every 5 to 10 minutes to start building a feed area. Once the bites come, slow down. Line bites mean fish are in the swim, so cast a little shorter.

Common questions

What is the best hookbait for the method feeder?

A small wafter or a hard 8mm pellet on a band works on most commercials. Bright wafters are good when fish are feeding hard; dull pellets when they're cautious.

How long should a method feeder hooklink be?

Short, around 3 to 4 inches, so the hookbait sits in or right next to the mix.

Does the method feeder work in winter?

Yes, with less feed. Use a small feeder, less mix and cast less often, since carp eat far less in cold water.

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• How to fish a new carp lake for the first timeThe first lap, depth mapping, how much bait to use and when to move on a water you've never fished.
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