It works on both stillwaters and rivers and nails shy-biting roach. So if you’re targeting specimen redfins, tie this rig and grab some white maggots!
Britain’s favourite species can be caught on a wide range of different tactics, from float fishing to the Method feeder. One of the most effective tactics, especially in winter, is a helicopter feeder combined with maggots for feed and hookbait. This rig works in both stillwaters and rivers and creates a concentration of bait with the hookbait in the centre. With a heavy enough feeder, the rig produces a bolt-effect that means most fish, even shy-biters, are efficiently hooked.
Regular, accurate recasting is essential because the only bait introduced will be through the feeder. Fresh white maggots are the only bait required and recast every 30 minutes to give the feeder time to empty. Because the feeder is quite heavy, do not be tempted to use a light mainline. Stick to a breaking strain of at least 6lb to avoid cracking off on the cast. The hooklength also does not have to be too thin. With such a short hooklength, a slightly thicker diameter line helps to reduce tangles, thanks to its stiffness.
YOU WILL NEED…
HOW TO TIE A HELICOPTER RIG
1. Cut a 30cm length of the line to form the hooklength. This can be between 0.11mm and 0.15mm in diameter.
2. Tie on the hook using a spade-end knot, but pass the line through the eye first. This kicks the hook at an angle that improves hooking.
3. Tie the swivel to the other end of the hooklength. The hooklength should have a finished length of 10cm to 15cm.
4. Trap the hooklength swivel between a pair of gripper/float stops. The hooklength should be just above the feeder when the rig is complete.
5. Tie on the feeder using a four-turn grinner knot. A feeder weighing a minimum of 30g creates a good bolt-effect for better hooking.
If you require any more tips or information on roach fishing, please contact the Angling Active team. We are more than happy to help.
