June 2017

Over the last few seasons I have noticed that some swims on my local rivers have become increasingly snaggy, with some verging on impossible to fish safely. On closer inspection, in some instances, it would appear that the ‘snags’ are actually lost line and rigs that are collecting on natural obstructions. “Use stronger gear, so that you are not having to pull for a break,” you might cry. Well, yes, that is a possible option, but it is often the use of strong gear that is making the situation worse, especially when using hooklengths that are stronger than the main line. If you use a coated braid or braided hooklength then this is likely to be the case....