What sort of set-up do I need to trot for barbel?

Corey Partridge, email

WHEN the rivers are low and clear in summer, trotting is a great way to target barbel. They love fast-moving water in the early part of the season, and the best swims are usually those leading up to a shallow ford or running away from one.

Keep tackle simple but strong – 6lb or even 8lb mainline, with a big buoyant float like a 3SSG or 4SSG DH Truncheon Waggler, which are brilliant for pacey water with more than 4ft of depth.

Group most of the shot needed to cock the float close to the base, and down the line use a No4 shot for every 2ft of depth, with the bottom shot about a foot from the hook (a size 12 is about right).

Bait-wise, use a bunch of maggots or, if small fish are a problem, a 6mm or 8mm banded pellet presented at full depth or just off bottom.

Good luck!

Dave Harrell