LONG HOOKLENGTHS

A longer hooklength and a slow-release groundbait suits the feeding habits of barbel, which will often hang back from the feeder until they gain confidence. A long hooklength keeps the hookbait well away from the feeder, and I’ll start with one around 4ft long. If bites don’t come, I up that to 6ft. I favour Korum Barbel Line, which is very strong for its diameter. In most cases I use 8lb or 10lb but in really weedy or snaggy swims I’ll step that up to 12lb. I don’t find the need for back leads. When using long hooklengths, ensure the bait doesn’t catch in vegetation behind you as you cast.