7 micro improvements to make this December

Don't pierce it!

“When using pop-up hookbaits learn to tie them to the rig ring properly using a Slip Knot. I see so many anglers piercing the bait, pulling floss through the middle of it and then tying it off. This defeats the object somewhat, allowing the bait to take on water and lose buoyancy. This will prolong the rig’s effectiveness.”
Tony Welch

Go small

“When fishing on pressured day ticket lakes, you often need to be doing something different to get bites. A tactic that has done me proud is using tiny cylinders of a 15mm pop-up coupled with a small PVA bag of salmon fry crumb no bigger than a 20p piece. Dip this in your chosen liquid for even extra attraction!”
Tom Oliver

Super sharp

“Even the sharpest of hooks can be finely-tuned to give you an incredibly sharp hook! At first it can be tricky to get it right and often too much pressure is applied and it makes the hook worse rather than better. The new Gardner Point Doctor is almost rubber like and prevents this problem – give it a go.”
Tom Oliver

Use wipes

“Un-scented baby wipes: brilliant. Sometimes the things we do before getting to the lake can affect the result we get on the lake. The smell on our hands by smoking or filling up with petrol can then indirectly contaminate your bait. Use these wipes to ensure bait goes out the way it was meant to.”
Lee Wagner

Twist and spin

“When tying up a rig using a coated hooklink material, spin and twist the exposed braid in your fingers a few times to soften it up a bit and make it more supple. Freshly stripped coated braids may still have some waxy feel to them and defeat the point of the supple and stiff combination these materials offer.”
Sam Meeuswissen

Go natural

“Naturals work extremely well in the colder months so why not try using red or white squat and give yourself a natural edge? This small bait is half the size of a maggot and by warming them before use, it will cause the squat to realise higher levels of pheromones due to increased movement.”
Ricky Thomas

Stay motivated

“Winter can be tough for fishing and even tougher for keeping the motivation and enthusiasm up. It’s important that you make sure you are warm and comfortable during this time of the year so you stay motivated. Wrap up with extra layers and carry plenty of spares in case you get wet. A good quality sleeping bag will also ensure you have a good night’s sleep in the warm.”
Lewis Read