Nick Martin, by email

QDo heavy/light leads work better with certain types of terminal tackle set-ups (lead clip, heli, running rig, choddie and so on) than others?

AThere are rigs that are generally better when fished with leads of a certain weight, but the question isn’t quite as simple as it seems.

A chod rig, for instance, is suited to fishing over weed, detritus or thick silt – all situations where as light a lead as possible is desirable. A big, heavy lead is likely to work against the set-up by dragging the hookbait into the weed rather than settling gently on top.

Conversely, a running rig will be best with a big lead, because for the mechanics to work correctly, the lead needs to remain in place when a bite occurs while the line runs through the run ring, and a light one is unlikely to do so.

Usually, though, it’s the situation and baiting pattern that calls for a certain lead and may also require a particular rig rather than the rig itself demanding a specific weight for it to work efficiently.

For instance, over a tight bed of particles fish won’t be moving far between mouthfuls and so a big lead will help to set the hook. The rig doesn’t necessarily require a big lead but the end tackle, baiting and feeding scenario will benefit from one.

Casting at showing fish and short session angling, though, will be better approached with smaller leads, whatever the rig, as they create minimal disturbance.

So, the rig set-up is one of the factors to think about when choosing a lead, but do consider the situation as a whole.