Why should you use pop-ups in winter?
Why does focus turn to the use of pop-ups in the winter, more so than bottom baits? Is it a confidence thing or is there a theory that pop-ups are more productive in the winter? Gerry Willis, via e-mail
Lewis Read says: “It’s simple! The fast reaction mechanics make them a superb choice for cold-water carping. Whichever size bait you use or hook pattern you choose, the point will be kept close to the bait and in a position that will ensure that even a tentatively feeding fish will inhale the bait far enough into its mouth for the hook to potentially take hold (it’s best to use a straight pointed hook like an Incizor or Covert Chod Hook). By combining this presentation with a balanced bait, the slightest suck will also help the hookbait to travel further into the fish’s mouth.
“With a pop-up, the hook point is less likely to be snared or impaired by any debris on the lakebed and the bait will remain visible in the clearer cold-water for the fish to spot easily.
“Whether your using a small bright 12mm bait with a fined down pop-up rig or a larger cork-balled hooker with the all conquering Choddy or Hinged Stiff Rig, you need to consider keeping the terminal tackle balanced, your hook points sharp and always fish with rigs that don’t tangle during the cast.”
