How to combat gravel bars
Can you suggest a suitable set-up for fishing over bars and mussel beds at distance? I am hooking fish and losing them to cut offs. Stephen Jobling
Lewis Read says: “One of the waters I angle on is well known for its bars, but most the regulars have got around lines being cut by taking a couple of simple steps.
“Firstly, use the thickest monofilament possible – 0.35mm or thicker. Most lines are amazingly abrasion resistant, but if you put them against a sharp object under pressure they are likely to cut. The single best way of safeguarding against cut-offs is to use thicker line.
“The next step is to discharge the lead. Personally I don’t like losing leads for no reason (people do in my opinion), but if it makes the difference between landing most of the fish you hook rather than leaving them trailing rigs and line then it’s
got to be worth doing. Use a reliable lead clip, both the clips in the Covert range consistently discharge the lead if required.
“Having the rod tips up and lines kept tight will also help (and it looks the don!). Yeah, I know everyone wants their line on the bottom, but if you’re fishing over a series of bars at 90yds, most of the line will be held up between them so you might as well use them to your benefit for a change.
“Finally, think about a longer specialist leader if the rules allow. Several firms sell specialist braided leaders – ours is called Vigilante and in both the 35lb and 45lb versions makes excellent leaders for this scenario. Just remember, just like monofilament, the best possible defence against being cut-off with Dyneema braids is diameter, so don’t be afraid to
use the 45lb version.”