In the ever-evolving world of commercial carp fishing, certain tactics and techniques often fall out of favour due to trends and perceived limitations. One such example is the use of 8mm hard pellets. While they may not be as widely used as their smaller counterparts, 6mm and 4mm pellets, they offer a distinct advantage in specific fishing scenarios.
Why 8mm hard pellets?
The short answer is that 8mm hard pellets can be a highly effective choice, but only when used in suitable venues. These venues are typically those with a high average size of carp. The larger pellet presents a more substantial meal, enticing these bigger fish to feed.
However, the benefits of 8mm hard pellets extend beyond just targeting larger carp. They can also be a valuable asset in lakes plagued by a significant population of small silverfish. These nuisance fish can often disrupt the feeding patterns of carp when using smaller baits. The larger 8mm pellet, with its greater mass, is less likely to be disturbed by silverfish, allowing the carp to feed more effectively.
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The short pole
When using 8mm hard pellets, the short pole is often the most productive approach. This typically means using the pole at lengths ranging from 4 to 8 meters, with the ideal fishing depth being at the bottom of the near shelf. The slightly harder bottom found at this depth can make it easier to hook and land carp.
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Pick your spot correctly
To maximise your success and minimise spooking feeding fish, it's recommended to fish at an angle, either around 10 o'clock or 2 o'clock. This allows you to play hooked fish in front of you, away from your fishing area, reducing the risk of disturbance and improving your chances of landing the fish.
Float choice
When targeting larger carp with 8mm pellets, your float selection is crucial. Based on the water depth, I recommend using either a 0.3g or 0.4g float. A slim-bodied float is ideally suited for this type of fishing. To maximise your chances of detecting subtle bites from big carp, dot the bristle right down and lift at every indication. Even when fishing for large fish, bites aren't always aggressive and may appear as slight movements.
As a general guideline, I prefer to use a 0.3g float in water depths ranging from 4 to 6 feet, provided the conditions are favourable and there's no strong wind. If conditions are more challenging, a slightly heavier 0.4g float may be necessary. To handle the power of large carp, opt for a mainline of 0.19mm. Connect this to a six-inch hooklength of 0.17mm. A size 16 wide gape hook to a band is an excellent choice for this type of fishing. A loosely strung bulk of No 10 shots is ideal. Fix the bottom shot six inches from the hook and space the remaining droppers at 1.5-inch intervals. This shotting pattern provides good control and sensitivity.
The choice of elastic depends on how the carp fight in the venue. Black or Red Hydro are both suitable options. Black Hydro is generally stiffer, while Red Hydro offers more stretch.
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Bait quantity and feeding
When fishing with 8mm pellets, two pints should be sufficient for a single line. Any good-quality 8mm pellet brand will work effectively. Remember, less is often more when it comes to feeding. Hand-feeding is preferred unless the wind is excessive. Feed four to six pellets every few minutes when not fishing the line. When fishing, feed to the bites. A valuable tip is to feed twice consecutively, as the extra noise and bait can attract carp to your hookbait.
Presentation
Lifting and dropping your rig is essential when fishing with hard pellets. Keep the hookbait moving by lifting the float six inches every 15 seconds. This movement can attract carp and increase your chances of a bite. Always lower the rig into the water, rather than laying it in sideways. Laying it in can cause the float to sink due to the weight of the pellet.
When plumbing up, ensure the bristle and half of the float body are visible. This ensures you are fishing at the correct depth, which is crucial for maximising bites with 8mm pellets. Fishing too deep can reduce your chances of success.
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