NEW SERIES! Specimen ace Dai Gribble reveals his big-fish tricks.

Reigning Drennan Cup Champ reveals a deadly set-up for the new season

WE’RE just a few days away from the start of the river season on June 16, and I can’t wait to get among the chub and barbel on big rivers like the Severn, Trent and Wye once again.

Barbel fishing has really grown in popularity in recent seasons and there are even some waters where there’s a queue for pegs at dawn, they’re that good.

As more anglers fish for this species so do our skills and knowledge improve. However, the fish are getting wiser too!

There’s little doubt that the majority of barbel are now caught on boilies and pellets, as they love both these baits.

However, like most things in angling, putting a little bit of thought into your bait and tackle selection can make a massive difference to your results.

A lot of anglers simply cast out a large pellet or boilie attached to a big hook and short braided hooklength and wait for a bite that in many cases is unmissable.

This approach certainly catches fish, but many barbel have become wary of larger baits, especially in daylight hours, when a more subtle approach pays dividends.

At this time of year, my approach to barbel on larger rivers such as the Severn and Wye in daylight is to use feeders, small hooks and bait, and long mono hooklengths.

This week I’m going to show you how to tie my simple but effective rig and give you a few bait tips that will definitely help you if you’re heading to the river this weekend.

Let’s make it a weekend to remember!