As the sun is (mostly) shining, you’ll find yourself fishing a lot more than usual. Hopefully this means you’re meeting PB’s and exploring new species. However, if this means your catching is becoming stagnant and you’re wondering if and how you’re going to beat a personal best (PB), we have just the guide for you.
We have spoken to the best of the best, our in-house anglers and ambassador David Seaman to bring you tips and tricks to make sure you’re catching the best you can.
Where Are The Bigger Fish?
It’s important to know what size fish are living in the waters you’re fishing. If you’re wanting to catch a carp that is heavier than 20lb, but you’re fishing in a lake where they only go up to 19lb, it’s fairly obvious that this won’t be your day.
In most commercial fisheries, you’ll know what size the fish go up to in each lake, so you know which one to set up at depending on your PB.
Our key advice here is to do some research. Know what weight you’re aiming for and see where they’re swimming. As our ambassador, David Seaman, told us: “The best advice I can give when it comes to beating your PB is Watercraft - Find out where the big fish live in each lake”.
What Fishing Bait Should I Use?
Although fish are attracted to a handful of flavours and baits, if you’re not seeing any action, it might be time to change it up. From the classics like sweetcorn, luncheon meat and maggots, to boilies, liquid glugs and pellets, there’s a lot out there to choose from.
If you’ve not been using ground bait, try throwing some out in your swim to get the attention of the bigger fish. You can see how to do that here.
Using bigger bait, or even fake bait (like artificial sweetcorn) can keep the small fish at bay and get the bigger fish’s attention. Smaller fish can’t take the fake sweetcorn or the bigger baits, and so will leave it on the hook for the bigger swimmers.
Pre-baiting your area also works wonders. If you can make it down to your chosen location a day or so before you’re fishing there, pre-baiting your area will get more fish into your swim, enhancing your chance of getting bigger fish.
What Fishing Line Should I Use?
Getting your line right could be tricky, and might be the reason you’re not seeing bigger fish being pulled in.
A big fish needs strong, thick line; however, they are much better at spotting it compared to smaller fish. The trick here, is to get a line as thin as you can, without the risk of the line breaking. Look out for different coloured lines as some are designed to be camouflage.
It’s also good to note that you should have a strong enough rod for the species you’re after. There’s nothing worse than hooking a beast and not being able to fight to land it.
Why is Patience Important?
At the end of it all, the main thing you need is patience. After all, that is what fishing is about.
Sitting there and waiting for a bite is what makes the catch all the more thrilling. Practising patience and persistence is key to getting more and bigger fish.
Whilst you’re there waiting, you can even see if there are any fellow anglers nearby and get some tips from them, too!
