TOP 5 TIPS

1 Use a waggler that allows you to adjust the colour of your tip – believe it or not, black is often best.

2 Forget lift method fishing for autumn. A waggler will show up the bites much better.

3 Add a little extra oil to your pellets and if the tench move over them you will know from a slick on the surface.

4 Balanced tackle means you will land more fish. Use a forgiving rod to soak up lunges.

5 On gravel pits I find prime tench time to be two hours after sunrise, so don’t give up hope if you fail to get a bite straight away.