Q Should I always use a lighter hooklength when fishing for carp on commercials?

AA lighter hooklength will ultimately get you more bites, but it is a weak link and could snap if you hook a big carp or get snagged. It’s all about striking a balance between hooklink, mainline, hook size and elastic (if pole fishing). For example, a 6lb mainline matched with a 5lb hooklength and a size 16 hook should easily cope with carp to double figures. A 6lb mainline with a 2lb hooklength and a size 20 hook is asking for trouble. The only time when a hooklength shouldn’t be used (straight through), is when margin fishing and big carp are on the cards. You may be fishing near reeds and overhanging trees and may need to pile on the pressure when the float goes under.