Angling can follow trends, now more than ever. Sometimes a method becomes forgotten about, or not seen as the right approach. One such example is the use of a method feeder on the river. While this approach is prolific on many stillwaters applying it to a river is far less common, it can be highly effective in catching wary river carp, chub and barbel.
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The benefits of the Method
The lack of use of this setup can be a significant advantage. The fish often wary off familiar tactics, and the method can present a unique and enticing target. The hookbait hidden within the feeder adds an extra element of surprise, triggering a more aggressive take.
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Patience and persistence
It's important to remember that even with this approach, patience is key. If you don't get a bite within half an hour, it's likely that the fish have become cautious. A recast, resetting the trap will create competition between shoal members, this can sometimes overcome this wariness, leading to a bite.
While the Method feeder may have fallen out of favour on the river in recent years, this approach can be a highly effective way to catch wary big river fish. By understanding the benefits of the presentation and employing the right techniques, you can reap the rewards of this often-overlooked river tactic.
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Key Tips for Success
Pre-planning
Ensure the Method feeder mix is properly prepared, the evening before is a good idea, allowing for all the groundbait and particles to fully absorb liquids becoming heavier and stickier, this will prevent it from crumbling off the feeder during the cast and washing away easily in the flow.
Customising the mix
Tailor the stiffness of the mix to suit the venue, especially in fast-flowing rivers. blended Sticky’s Active Krill 50/50 with trout pellet powder. I added the liquid attractors (salmon oil and krill) to the water rather than to the dry powders to ensure an even distribution. Then I slowly and deliberately began to moisten the mix. Only when I could gently squeeze it in my hand and it bound together was I satisfied.
Effective feeding
Introduce small amounts of additional pellets to attract fish to the feeder can sometimes induce a quicker bite.
The rig
Opt for a short braided hooklength and a size 10 hook, ensuring optimal hook hold.
