ADAM PENNING’s RIG TUTORIAL f /Prologicfishing y /PrologicFishingGear /Prologic_fishing
Prologic’s Last Meter range of terminal tackle 4 Hoox provides every component you could ever possibly need to construct any rig. 6 Tools
In noticing just how far rig evolution has grown in the 7 Leaders past decade in terms of mechanics and concealment, Prologic’s Brand and Product Manager, Enrico Parmeggiani 8 Downforce called upon the collective expertise of his professional angling staff to help develop a fine-tuned, comprehensive Braided Hooklinks range of terminal tackle to cater for the angler who goes 10 the extra mile when it comes to their ‘Last Meter’. 11 Mono Hooklinks It took two solid years of development, testing, tweaking (and then more testing and tweaking!) before the 14 NEW Minicry 3D range was finally given Enrico’s seal of approval. 20 Location Each component in the range is manufactured entirely in-house via our very own production facility. This gives 22 Fishing Over Gravel us complete control over material sourcing, production quality and the entire development process, allowing 24 Fishing Over Silt us to design, produce and offer unique alternatives to a highly competitive terminal tackle market. 26 Fishing Over Weed With the help of our Senior Consultant and 28 Fishing at Distance renowned big carp chaser, Adam Penning, we’re delighted to present our first ever Rig Guide! 32 Zig Rigs Rather than bombard you with a flurry of over-complicated rigs, we pitched several common scenarios often faced by 34 River Fishing Europe anglers to Adam and asked him to nominate the perfect rig solution for each situation. In addition, we’ve also included an 38 Boat Fishing Europe illustrative step-by-step guide on how to construct each rig. 42 A Guide to Fish Care We hope this booklet helps you add some bonus fish to the bank!
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 As with all items in the Last Meter range, Carbon Steel Wire for minimal flexibility and maximum each hook pattern has undergone strength, this material plays a key role in the ‘sticky- rigorous field testing before commencing sharpness’ and improved lifespan of our hook-points. with production. Even after several captures, HOOX retain their ‘out of the packet’ sharpness.
XCI XC2 XC3 XC5 XC7 XC8
The slightly offset beaked hook-point of the Our answer to the classic long-shank The XC3 is a wide-gape style pattern The super-strong XC5 may look similar The curved nature of the XC7 pattern The XC8 is our dedicated ‘stiff rig’ hook. XC1 aids hook rotation. This coupled with pattern, the XC2 is one of our most with a straight eye that is better suited for in appearance to the XC3 pattern, but coupled with a 3-degree in-turned Features a 20-degree out-turned a 13 degree in-turned eye ensures that versatile patterns in the range. stiffer hooklink materials such as thick features a few minor tweaks that make a eye causes the hook-point to flip eye to compensate for stiff hooklink the point turns to catch hold as quickly as Featuring a 25-degree in-turned eye monofilament or fluorocarbon. huge difference. Primarily developed for and catch hold instantly. materials exiting the eye, ensuring the possible before the fish has chance to eject and straight hook-point, the extended The straight eye ensures the gape remains targeting snaggy ‘hit’n hold’ situations, the Features a straight hook-point and gape remains as wide as possible the hookbait. The beak protects the hook- shank transfers weight towards the end as wide as possible for a greater ‘claw’ XC5 features a thicker gauge wire for added medium-length shank for added strength. for a maximum ‘claw’ effect. point from blunting when fishing over gravel strength in addition to a 15-degree in-turned of the hook, dramatically improving hook effect when the fish picks up the hookbait. A popular choice for rigs that use Use the XC8 pattern for all stiff-style pop-up and also dramatically reduces hook-pulls. rotation and in turn, greater hook rates. eye and beaked hook-point for greater hook The perfect choice for stiff style D-rigs or the rotation and improved hook-hold properties. supple or semi-stiff hooklink materials rigs such as the Chod or MK2 Multi-Rig. Perfect for rigs that incorporate soft and Suitable for both pop-up style rigs and ‘Bottom-Bait Chod Rig’. such as the combi-rig, incorporating supple hooklinks such as solid bag rigs. bottom bait presentations, the XC2 is Perfect for standard bottom bait rigs that a rig ring along the shank. commonly used for blow-back style rigs incorporate supple or semi-stiff hooklinks that incorporate a rig ring along the shank. such as Reptilian Coated Braid or Super Snake FS.
4 XXXXHoox Hoox 5 f /Prologicfishing y /PrologicFishingGear /Prologic_fishing 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. For both safety and convenience, we have included a range of Ready Made Leaders that are good to 1 3 2 4 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.
1 Running Rig Leader 2 Helicopter Style 3 Leadclip Leader 1 Boilie Lip Needle 5 On baron venues that contain little or no Leader Ideal for snaggy, weedy waters where Safety gate latch needle for attaching hookbaits and hazardous snags such as weed, a running losing the lead on the take is imperative to Ideal for fishing at distance due to its superb threading hooklinks through small PVA sticks or bags. rig maybe the most suitable option. increase chances of landing the fish. When anti-tangle properties, allowing the rig full force is applied from the rig end of the This leader features a soft, rubberised rotation in-flight. The lead is attached at the leader, the leadclip ejects the lead to allow 2 Stringer Lip Needle sleeve for the run ring to grip onto. When very end while the rig can be offset at any you direct contact with the fish and give force is applied from the rig end the run distance by adjusting the beads attached to Extended safety gate latch needle for attaching hookbaits, you much greater control during the fight. stringers and threading hooklinks through large PVA ring disengages and allows the leader and the leader material. This is also regarded as sticks or bags. mainline to run through the ring easily while one of the safer setups and the rig is able In the event of a line break, the lead will the lead remains stationary on the lakebed. to travel off the leader in the event of a line automatically release itself from the clip From a safety aspect, this allows the lead break, leaving very little for the fish to tow. when met with resistance from weed or 3 Twisting Bait Drill to run free in the event of a line break to excess force from the fish shaking its head. Drills hard baits such as nuts and pellets with two-part minimise the amount of tackle the fish tows. It is vital to ensure that the lead clip is twisting handle for ease of use. Another benefit of this setup is that fish lubricated before applying the tail rubber are unable to use the weight of the lead and that the rubber isn’t pushed on too far. Additionally, the tail rubber should 4 Big Bait Drill to shake the hook from its mouth as the line passes through the ring. This have enough purchase to withstand Bores out baits such as boilies and tiger nuts. Insert foam can sometimes prove to be an edge the rig entering the water on the cast stick and trim to size for a critically balanced hookbait. on pressured waters and help you without ejecting the lead on impact. 6 land more fish. 5 Pro Braid Scissors Cuts cleanly through all types of hooklink material effortlessly. 7 1 6 Compact Scissors Super sharp compact scissors for trimming hookbaits or cutting through braid and mono hooklinks.
7 Hair Controller Handy tool for achieving the perfect length of hair. 2
3
6 XXXXXXXTools XXXXXXX Leaders 7 f /Prologicfishing y /PrologicFishingGear /Prologic_fishing
Anti Tangle Rig Sleeves Rig concealment is one of the most vital aspects Fits neatly over swivels to protect knots and eliminate tangles on the cast by pushing of carp fishing. As carp fishing continues the rig away from the lead in flight. to grow in popularity, angling pressure at many venues is at an all-time high. Micro Rig Sleeves The increase in pressure means that fish are fully aware Perfect for protecting hooklink knots they are being angled for and to outwit our quarry requires between materials such as combi- something a little different at the business end. rigs 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. Tungsten Putty Kit Kit contains three colours to match various Our Downforce range of tungsten-based terminal items substrates such as gravel, weed and provides all components needed to take rig concealment to silt. Moulds easily around knots to keep the next level. Each Downforce component is manufactured everything pinned down and allows you to using large percentages of high density tungsten in its fine-tune the buoyancy of hookbaits. mixes for added weight and maximum concealment.
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 Anti Tangle Tubing for all helicopter style setups such as chod rigs. Suitable for use on Eliminates tangles, protects the line and leaders and naked monofilament. flanks of fish during the fight. The perfect alternative on venues where fixed leaders are banned, keeping everything pinned Drop Beads down out of view and contact. 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. HOOKLINKS 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.
8 XXXXXXXDownforce XXXXXXX Hooklinks 9 f /Prologicfishing y /PrologicFishingGear /Prologic_fishing
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 Taking rig concealment to dizzy new heights! Mimicry 3D Mirage is the first mono hooklink of PL fibres that simply plummets through the water and pins itself perfectly to the lakebed its kind to feature a broken camouflaged pattern, blending perfectly over any type of lakebed. contours for optimum presentation. Features a two-tone green camo for added concealment. Use the super-supple lower diameters for smaller, lighter baits such as maggots or corn, Available in 15lb, 25lb and 35lb on 15m spools. 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 Pro Chod Mono 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, This clear, high memory monofilament is super-stiff and easily manipulated to create the greater abrasion resistance and super-fast sinking properties. perfect curve on chod style rigs or steamed as straight as an arrow for boom sections. Being slightly stiffer than Viper Ultra Soft, it lends itself to longer rigs for reduced tangles and Features superb knot strength and extreme abrasion resistance, improved presentation at distance. The three-tone green camo finish blends into the lake bed. leaving nothing to chance during the fight. Add its sinking properties and it offers absolute discretion. Available in 22lb, 28lb, 33lb and 38lb versions on 25m spools Available in 15lb, 20lb, 30lb and 40lb versions on 15m 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. Spectrum Z Fluorocarbon The coating is easily strippable to expose a supple braided core for a multitude of presentation options. Our new and improved Spectrum Z Fluorocarbon Hooklink has undergone a slight recipe change to improve abrasion resistance and increase knot strength. A 100% Finished in an earthy two-tone brown on both the coating and braided inner for maximum fluorocarbon that is perfect for creating stiff rigs and combi rigs. camouflage properties. Available in 22lb, 28lb, 37lb and 56lb versions on 25m spools Available in 15lb, 25lb and 35lb versions on 15m spools
Super Snake FS
An extreme braid for extreme situations. This semi-soft uncoated braid contains Spectrum Zig and Floater Special Aramid and PTFE fibres for ultimate abrasion resistance. Due to its high- density, this sinks faster than nylon monofilament, helping to keep everything A super-strong floating monofilament, specifically designed for zigs and surface fishing. pinned down and out of sight. Finished in a subtle matt-green. Low in diameter and clear in colour for maximum discreteness. Available in 15lb, 25lb, 35lb and 45lb versions on 15m spools Superb knot strength and abrasion resistance. Available in 13lb, 16lb, 18lb and 20lb versions on 100m spools
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f /Prologicfishing y /PrologicFishingGear /Prologic_fishing NEW
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 • Designed to release the lead when snagged and is stronger for bigger leads
14 XXXXXXXMimicry 3D XXXXXXX Last Meter Mimicry 3D Last Meter 15 f /Prologicfishing y /PrologicFishingGear /Prologic_fishing
Mimicry Anti-Tangle Mimicry Micro Rig Sleeve Mimicry Anti-Tangle Rig Sleeve Tailrubber • Protecting knots • Pushes the rig away from the lead • Covers quick-change clips • 10cm tailrubber with short mid-flight to eliminate tangles • Produces a neat protected rig anti-tangle tube built in • For use with size 8 swivel • Can be used as line aligner for long • Ideal for distance fishing with shank hooks ‘naked’ (no leader) style setups Mimicry Semi Fixed Rig Kit Mimicry Naked Chod Rig System • Slim design for better presentation • Parallel swivel chamber reduces • Eliminates tangles mid-flight • Can be used fixed or running style • Grips monofilament perfectly for naked style setups damage from quick links • Can be used with all lead clip systems • Swivel can be locked using pins (included) • Two part system • Fits Prologic Quick Change • Can be used as shock Swivels perfectly absorber for Chod rigs • Can be configured to release lead • Slow sinking to settle over weed • Slow sinking • Multiple presentation options • Protect knots • Superb anti-tangle properties
Mimicry Helicopter/ Mimicry Drop-Off Lead Mimicry Chod Drop- Mimicry Grip Tail Beads Mimicry Gripper Beads Mimicry Buffer Beads Chod Buffer Buffer Off Lead Sleeve • Long tail beads for increased grip • Universal bead for use on running rigs, • Shock absorbing chod rigs and helicopter rigs • Two part chod buffer • Ideal for running rigs and helicopter rigs • Shock absorber sleeve • Ideal for anti-tangle tube and leaders • For use on running rigs, chod rigs and • Tapered hole is designed to slide over helicopter rigs • For use with helicopter style • Thick but soft construction • Perfect for helicopter style • Soft durable material knots in the event of the line breaking • The larger hole is designed to protect setups such as chod rigs • Shock absorber setups such as chod rigs • Shock absorber • Available in small and large the knot • Use running style on naked mono • Can be configured to release lead • Can be configured to release lead • For use with a size 8 swivel or quick • Semi-fixed when used change link with leader material
16 XXXXXXXMimicry 3D XXXXXXX Last Meter Mimicry 3D Last Meter 17 f /Prologicfishing y /PrologicFishingGear /Prologic_fishing
Mimicry Line Mimicry Anti-Tangle Tubing Mirage Loop Leaders Aligner Sleeve • Tubing to protect the line, the fish and • Sinking reduce tangles • Protect knots • Soft construction-adapt to any contour • Perfect alternative to leaders of the bottom • Produce a neat and protected hook presentation • Can be used with all types of rigs • Superb blending properties against all types of lakebed • Improves hook rotation for • Superb blending properties against all improved hook holds types of lakebed change link • Loop at both ends • Adjust the length by trimming • Extreme abrasion resistance to required size • Available in large and medium
18 XXXXXXXMimicry 3D XXXXXXX Last Meter Mimicry 3D Last Meter 19 f /Prologicfishing y /PrologicFishingGear /Prologic_fishing 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 effort and patience – the two elements that in a swim near the car park or one that has a nice anglers who are often preoccupied on the quick view and a flat area for the bed, but placing all route to success are not keen to put in. our hopes on convenience rather than actual fish location will leave us with a dry net all too often. The secret to successful carp fishing is not in a packet, in a box or on a DVD – it is inside Watercraft is often whispered about as if it is YOU. You are the key to your fishing success some sort of ‘dark art’ or Jedi skill – it isn’t! All and if you are willing to take time looking for watercraft consists of is looking and listening to and locating the fish then from that alone, our surroundings and then reacting accordingly. your catch rate will soar, I promise you! Sounds simple? Well, it is but it does require
Dawn: Get to the lake as early Birdlife: Nervous bird life is Remember: The more you look, as you can; just before first light is another good one and following the more you see. The more you best. Try and watch the lake from the shrill alarm of a spooked coot see, the more you know. The more a single position (instead of long has caught me many carp. you know, the more you will catch! walks between swims where you can’t see anything through the It is ALL about looking for signs Good luck! trees) – one that allows you to see and then positioning yourself as much of the water as possible. accordingly. Your eyes are like a Look for big, oily swirls, tips of muscle – the more you exercise heads and noses as carp slide them, the stronger they get and silently out of the water. When it the more you will start to notice. starts to get light, look for areas of On many lakes, even well stocked fizzing as it is nearly always flat ones, whole areas can be devoid calm at dawn. Additionally, areas of of carp – it is imperative that you large frothy bubbles trapped in the search out the areas of activity and surface film can often betray a zone then approach them accordingly. where the carp have been leaping and feeding earlier in the night.
20 XXXXXXXLocation XXXXXXX Location 21 f /Prologicfishing y /PrologicFishingGear /Prologic_fishing WAFTER RIG 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. 1 2 3
LOCATING GRAVEL: In bright and sunny conditions on clear-water venues, try
gaining a high (but safe) vantage point in the surrounding Strip approx. 3” of coating from Thread a small piece of silicone trees. This will often reveal entire areas of gravel, allowing Reptilian Coated to expose the braid tubing and an XC1 Hook, trapping you to watch if or how fish approach the area. and tie a small loop. the braid to the hook. 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 4 5 6 areas are definitely worth investigating with the marker rod using a bare lead attached to a braided mainline. 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 Add your wafter hookbait and attach Slide 10mm of silicone tubing over Thread a Downforce Anti-Tangle Sleeve onto hooklink before attaching to the travel unimpeded with zero resistance on the retrieve. hook via a knotless knot, leaving a the hook eye and angle slightly. Quick-Change Ring Swivel. 20mm gap between the bait and Add a small drop of tungsten putty hook and 30mm of uncoated braid where coating starts. PRESENTATION behind the hook eye. FISHING OVER GRAVEL As with all rigs you are looking to For large areas of gravel, try to locate the nearside edge of achieve an accessible, concealed the spot where the gravel meets weed or silt sediment. Gravel and tangle-free presentation. patches are expanded by fish feeding on this surrounding Test your rig in the margin. If necessary, add/remove putty until the bait sinks sediment on the outer edges as this is where the majority Gravel is one of the easiest areas to slightly slower than a normal freebie and ensure the hook point faces outward, away from the lead. of natural food is harboured. By presenting a rig on the effectively present a rig over, therefore your nearside edge, your rig will not only be presented effectively, main focus should be concealment. but will also place itself directly in the vicinity of the carp’s In this scenario, I would favour the Wafter likely next feeding area. Another major benefit of presenting Rig. The idea being that the rig lays a rig near to the edge of a spot is that any excess mainline completely flat and pinned to the deck using will be hidden from view, posing no threat to visiting fish. small drops of tungsten putty, whilst the Ideally, locating more ‘subtle’ areas of gravel will pose far less critically-balanced wafter hookbait hovers risk to passing fish. I have often found that larger stamp of above the hook, masking it from view. fish will feed comfortably on smaller, less blatant patches of Due to the weightless nature of wafters, gravel. Finding and presenting a bait accurately on these spots minimal effort is required for a feeding fish is obviously a lot more difficult and will require practice. to pick up the hookbait along with the rig.
22 XXXXXXXFishing Over XXXXXXX Gravel Fishing Over Gravel 23 f /Prologicfishing y /PrologicFishingGear /Prologic_fishing MULTI-RIG MKII SILT 1 2 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 Use the hook to gauge the length of Silt is formed when dead materials such as leafs and weed break 0.53mm and fold in half. loop needed 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 3 4 5 6 smaller but concentrated area of natural food.
Form a smaller loop at the desired Take a section of Reptilian Coated Whip around the main loop seven Ensure there is a 1” uncoated length of the main loop using the Braid and remove 3” of coating to times and three times back on itself section behind the finished knot. tag ends. expose the inner braid and pass before passing back through the This allows 360 movement of through the smaller loop. smaller loop. Lubricate and bed the hook. knot down before pulling tight.
LOCATING SILT: Older, deeper silt is usually black in 7 8 9 10 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’ PRESENTATION silt. Distinguishing silt from clay As with all rigs you are looking to Pass the mono loop through the Pass the mono loop over Using a bait drill, form a ‘D’ on the Add a short section of silicone or sand can be difficult due to its front of the hook eye and slide the hook-point. shank of the hook. Use hooklink to tubing the protect the knot and achieve an accessible, concealed on a medium-sized rig ring. Tip: tension the loop and steam to keep a drop of tungsten putty where smooth, non-textured nature. and tangle-free presentation. use a fine braid or floss to pull its shape. coating starts. the mono through the eye. The best way to separate the three In this scenario I’ll always opt for a is by feeling the lead down on a FISHING OVER SILT MK Multi-Rig presentation, fished tight line before landing with a firm Presenting a pop-up style rig over with a pop-up. The pop-up section ‘thud’. When pulling the rod back, silt will ensure your hookpoint is kept to a minimal length, as 11 12 you should initially feel a light remains unhindered by any lakebed near to the lakebed as possible. resistance with the rod tip taking debris such as leaves. I tend to on a slight curve before the lead use rigs at around 8” in length, The stiff coated boom section unplugs itself from the lakebed, adjusting them slightly longer eliminates tangles and is adjusted followed by little or no resistance depending on the depth of silt. This in length depending on the depth as the lead glides smoothly and extra length ensures that the rig is of the silt for perfect rig lay. Thread a Downforce Anti-Tangle Sleeve Lasso the pop-up with bait floss and • effortlessly. The stronger the initial not pulled into the silt by the lead Another benefit of the MK2 and attach a Quick-Change Ring tie to rig ring using a series of Attach to a Helicopter style leader. resistance the deeper the silt, but upon impact and leaves enough Multi-Rig is that the hook can be Swivel. overhand knots before carefully Adjust stop beads depending on fusing tag-ends together with depth of silt. ideally the lead should pull free with material for the rig to sit flat along easily changed if needed, without a lighter. minimal force from the rod tip. the surface. having to retie the entire rig.
24 XXXXXXXFishing Over XXXXXXX Silt Fishing Over Silt 25 f /Prologicfishing y /PrologicFishingGear /Prologic_fishing 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 Using the tag end that exits the On waters that become choked with weed during the summer months, there may and thread an XC8 hook. back of the hook, form a loop be no option but to present over it if a clear spot cannot be found. against the shank
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 4 5 6
Whip around the tag-end and hook Rotate the knot until both sides of Thread a medium-sized rig ring Set size of ‘D’ to desired size before FISHING OVER WEED: shank four times with the loop and the knot run parallel with the hook onto the tag-end before passing trimming the tag-end and carefully It goes without saying that a rig pull the tag end semi-tight. and tease down to the hook eye back through the hook eye to blobbing with a lighter to secure presented near to weed on a firm, before lubricating and pulling tight create a ‘D’. using a puller tool. clear substrate will allow for a much better rig presentation. But, when the entire lakebed appears to be carpeted with weed and no clear 7 8 spots can be found, attempt to seek out the shorter, low-lying weed. 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 Attach a size 12 ring swivel Tie a 2” boom section using Pro LOCATING WEED: firmer the landing, the shorter or via a 1-2 turn blood knot and Chod Mono 0.53m to the ring sparser the weed is likely to be. PRESENTATION: curve mono between fingers section and attach a size 10 ring On shallower waters, weed will until hook-point sits parallel. swivel at the opposite end using As with all rigs you are often reach the surface and can be Ideally the lead should travel 2-turn blood knots. located visually. However, this may relatively unimpeded and looking to achieve an not be the case in deeper water and return with small amounts accessible, concealed and tangle-free presentation. may require some work with the of weed attached. Don’t be 9 10 marker rod to confirm. alarmed if your rig comes back In this situation, I favour the In long and dense weed growth, it covered in weed, this is likely Micro-Chod Rig which is similar to happen on the retrieve. may be difficult to feel the lead land to the traditional chod rig but as the descent is highly cushioned. Be wary of any dense weed features a short boom section. The rod tip will also lock up tight between you and your spot as This used in conjunction with on the retrieve and may require this can be hazardous when additional force before the lead playing fish. Using light leads a helicopter setup allows me Add a small drop of tungsten putty Lasso your chosen pop-up using Test the rig buoyancy in the to the boom knot nearest to the size bait floss and attach to the rig ring margin before casting, adjusting pulls free. The level of force required or an effective lead drop-off to adjust the distance between 12 ring swivel. via a series of overhand knots. tungsten putty until rig descends to free the lead will indicate the system will drastically improve the lead and rig in order to Carefully fuse tag ends with a slowly through the water. lighter. density of weed. your chances of landing a fish. present on top of the weed.
26 XXXXXXXFishing Over XXXXXXX Weed Fishing Over Weed 27 BOTTOM BAIT f /Prologicfishing y /PrologicFishingGear /Prologic_fishing CHOD RIG
1 2
Take 8” of Pro Chod Mono 0.53mm Using the tag end that exits the DISTANCE and thread an XC8 hook.. back of the hook, form a loop against the shank. 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 3 4 5 6 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 Whip around the tag-end and hook Rotate the knot until both sides of Take 3” of Viper 3S braid and tie a Attach your hookbait and thread going to do you any favours either. shank four times with the loop and the knot run parallel with the hook small hair loop to a medium-sized rig ring onto the hook, securing pull the tag end semi-tight. and tease down to the hook eye ring swivel. with a Hook Shank Bead parallel Personally, I prefer to make a mental note of the spot using a visual before lubricating and pulling tight to the barb. marker on the horizon and wait for fish activity to cease before exploring using a puller tool. the area with a marker rod. Whether it’s silt, gravel or even short weed, providing that I Attach to a Helicopter Leader. can drag the lead back unimpeded I’m confident that my rig 7 will be presented effectively, ready for when fish return to the area.
PRESENTATION As with all rigs you are looking to achieve an accessible, Tie a small ‘Perfect Loop concealed and tangle-free presentation. Knot’ or Figure of Eight Loop running through the eye of Aggressive casts can often leave rigs prone to tangles a size 8/10 ring swivel. and therefore a stiff-style rig with maximum anti- tangle 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 8 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 Form a slight curve in the Pro Chod Mono using your fingers. 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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f /Prologicfishing y /PrologicFishingGear /Prologic_fishing ZIG RIG ZIGS 1 2 Zig rigs have dominated waters in recent years and can add bonus fish to the bank when Using Spectrum Zig & Floater Thread a Foam Twin Colour Ball action slows down on the deck. Special, tie a small hair loop before onto the hair loop and insert cutting hooklink to desired length. boilie stop 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. 3 4 5 6
Thread a small piece of Silicone Set hair tight to the hook using the Tie a Figure of Eight Loop at the Attach to a Lead Clip Leader Tubing and an XC5 Hook, trapping Silicone Tubing and tie a knotless opposite end and thread a Tungsten the mono to the hook. knot. Anti-Tangle Sleeve.
Test buoyancy in the margin before casting. DEPTH: It is important to understand the PRESENTATION: depth of water you’re targeting in Zigs are notorious for tangling on the cast. Casts should be order for you the adjust the length made slightly higher than normal and stopped immediately of your Zig accordingly. This is before the lead enters the water in order to keep the long done using a marker float setup by hooklink separate from other components on the descend. casting to an area and paying off Like insects, Zigs are often ‘snatched’ at in mid-water line one foot at a time until the float by carp. Therefore hookbaits should be kept tight to the reaches the surface from the lead. shank of the hook to maximise hooking potential.
INDICATION: For weedier waters, don’t be afraid to use a section Due to the extreme lengths of of standard mainline and a large hook for extra hooklink used for Zigs, bite strength. Hooking a large carp is pointless if you’re registration is often very subtle. unable to control the fight and dropping the lead is Therefore it’s imperative to fish paramount to ensure direct contact with the fish. ‘bow-string’ tight lines with alarms Any buoyant hookbait can be used for zigs although I set to maximum sensitivity to help personally use unflavoured black foam. The Foam Twin emphasise bite indication. Heavy Colour Balls offer the best of both worlds when targeting bobbins will also help to register mid to lower layers of the water in that the black section will drop-backs should the fish move silhouette against the skyline whilst the bright coloured tip towards you. will provide a fleck of visibility to any carp passing above.
32 Zig Rig Zig Rig 33 f /Prologicfishing y /PrologicFishingGear /Prologic_fishing RIVER
CARPINGWITH 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: CHALLENGES: There are many aspects Rivers are packed full of surprises which to bear in mind when taking on rivers. can often include huge, hard-fighting Flow and current can vary in different monster carp. Due to the sheer distances stretches so it’s important to ensure that that rivers can span, it’s inevitable that you adjust your setup accordingly. the majority of scaly river residents may never have been caught before and Heavier, ‘gripper’ style leads will help anchor their existence is therefore unknown. your rig and prevent it from being carried downstream. If the flow wasn’t enough to take For the angler who is willing to put in into consideration, couple this with a large the extra effort, legwork and attention to powerful carp and you could be in for an arm- detail, the rewards are endless. That next wrenching ride as the fish surges downstream. bite could result in a fish of a lifetime; Snags such as fallen trees and various other what could be more exciting than that? debris can litter the riverbed, especially after heavy flooding and therefore a strong, reliable mainline is paramount to stay in control of the fight.
34 XXXXXXXRiver Fishing XXXXXXX Europe River Fishing Europe 35 ENRICO’S f /Prologicfishing y /PrologicFishingGear /Prologic_fishing RIVER RIG
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Take 6” of Super Snake FS. Tie a Pass the opposite end through the medium rig ring to the end and back of an XC2 hook, passing the another 25mm behind it. hookpoint through the first rig ring.
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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 Tie an 8-turn knotless knot. Thread on a Micro Rig Sleeve and Form a loop in the end of Mimicry Join materials using an currents everything must be scaled up slide over the hook eye. 3D Mono hooklink and pass Albright Knot. braided tag end through the loop, in strength and anchored with a heavy trapping end of loop in line with the lead (as heavy as needed). My rigs are end of the Micro Rig Sleeve. kept long (up to 50cm) in order for the hookbait to act natural in the flow. Attach to a standard lead 7 8 clip leader with a heavy LOCATION: Be prepared to cover ‘gripper’ style lead. 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!
Once joined, cut Mimicry 3D Mono Thread on a Downforce Mega Drop River carp are very nomadic and can up at a length of around 40cm. Sinker and position over knot between sticks and move in the blink of an eye. the two materials. 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 9 10 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 Thread a Downforce Anti Tangle Attach hookbait to the last rig ring easy rig presentation. On larger, deeper Rig Sleeve onto mono tag end using bait floss. Carefully blob tag sections of river where I can take to followed by a figure-of-eight loop. ends with a lighter to secure. the boat I’ll use my echo-sounder.
36 XXXXXXXRiver Fishing XXXXXXX Europe River Fishing Europe 37 f /Prologicfishing y /PrologicFishingGear /Prologic_fishing
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 CHALLENGES AND RISKS to the entire lake and allows you to cover great distances quickly and OF BOAT FISHING: Space effortlessly. Weather conditions often dictate where the fish will be and and comfort is definitely the first when conditions change during the session, it’s important to stay mobile challenge, especially if you’re BOAT and react to these changes in order to maximise your chances of catching. sharing a boat. Weather can also cause problems and when Rather than having to pack everything down, barrow to conditions become extreme I’ll to the opposite end of the lake and set up again, it’s simply return to land until conditions settle. a case of reeling in and boating to a new area. NEVER take to the boat without Instead of leading around for features, you’re able to view them CARPINGWITH ENRICO PARMEGGIANI an adequate life jacket, no in complete detail and place rigs onto even the most intricate of matter how confident you spots accurately and ensure perfect presentation every time. may be as a swimmer.
38 XXXXXXXBoating Fishing XXXXXXX Europe Boat Fishing Europe 39 f /Prologicfishing y /PrologicFishingGear /Prologic_fishing 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 Take around 10” of Vipe 3S Attach your hookbaits and set the the lead down under tension prevents any excess line from being carried downstream by hooklink and tie a loop large hair length around 20mm from the the strong current and allows direct line lay to the rig for maximum bite detection. enough for your chosen hookbaits. bottom of the hook. 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. 3 4 5 6
Tie a KD style knotless knot, The hair should exit from the top of Thread on a Downforce Mega Drop Thread a Downforce Anti Tangle whipping above the hair 3 times the hook shank allowing the hook Sinker and place around 3” from Sleeve and tie a figure-of-eight loop and twice below. to hang aggressively. the hook. knot at the end.
The finished rig should look like this. Test 7 the buoyancy of your hookbait before placing the rig.
Attach to a Ready Made Running Rig leader
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The fight is yours and the fish Collapse landing net and transfer Remove rig and apply STERI-7 is finally in the net! Secure your fish to your protective sling or mat. XTRA Fish Care Spray to the landing net in the margin and Before lifting from the water, ensure point of hooking. Be sure to allow the fish to rest. Ensure all fins are tucked flat to the body. check for any other abrasions the fish cannot escape but has Lifting the sling whilst fins are across the fish’s body and enough depth to recover. Use this protruding away from the body can apply spray where needed. time to prepare the unhooking cause serious damage to the fish. mat and zero the scales.
Ensure that the fish is kept 4 hydrated at all times by regularly 5 applying lake water to the fish.
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.
NEVER carry fish back to the FISH 6 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 CAREA high standard of fish care is everyone’s responsibility the fish by gently holding the and should take absolute priority at all times. wrist of its tail, moving the fish back and forth to allow water to Adequately sized unhooking mats, slings, landing nets and antiseptic circulate through its gills. The fish are the basic tools for practicing good fish care, but using this will kick free when it’s ready. equipment both safely and correctly is vital for ensuring that our sought after quarry remain fit and healthy for future captors to enjoy.
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