Natural Water Feeder Masterclass | MICK VIALS MICK’S SIMPLE BUT DEADLY FEEDER SET UP. BELOW: MICK USES MEASURING STICKS FOR PINPOINT ACCURACY
The majority of my fishing nowadays is focused around the feeder, particularly on natural venues at home and abroad. Being involved in the England Feeder Team has taken my fishing to a new level. I have enjoyed one of my best seasons ever thanks to a finely tuned feeder approach. I’ll run you through a few of the key lessons I have learnt about this surprisingly straightforward, yet incredibly versatile tactic.
Rigs
I use this rig for all of my feeder fishing, both in the UK and on international duty. It is simply a free running rig which is based around a small paternoster Feeder Bead Link that keeps tangles to a minimum. This feeder link runs down on to a 6 inch twisted loop of line stopped by a number 8 Stot, to which the hooklength is then attached. This twisted loop acts as a stiff boom and kicks the hooklength away from the feeder through the cast. Incredibly simple, but most importantly tangle proof and reliable!
Rod & Reel Choice
Lots of anglers think about the fish they are going to catch when choosing rods and although fish playing action is very important, it is secondary to the most important aspect of feeder fishing, which is to consistently put the feeder where the fish are feeding. Before choosing your rod and reel, you need to analyse the conditions and the distance you’re intending to fish. Ultimately my rod and reel choice revolves around quality kit that I know wont let me down! With this in mind you need to choose a rod and a reel thats up to the job, so don’t under gun yourself. The UK is renowned for its changeable weather conditions and you still need to reach your feed area and you need to reach it comfortably. So, always give yourself that bit of extra power reserve to assure perfect presentation every cast.
England International and Preston backed star Mick Vials shows you how to become a better feeder angler!
mick’s rod & reel choice guidelines 20-40M
ABSOLUTE 11’6” SUPER FEEDER
PC-R COMPETITION 3000
40-60M
DUTCH MASTER 11’ 8” METHOD FEEDER
PC-R COMPETITION 4000
60-80M
DUTCH MASTER 12’ 8” METHOD FEEDER
PC-R COMPETITION 5000
80M+
DUTCH MASTER 13’ 2” FEEDER 80G
PC-R COMPETITION 6000
020
2016
natural water feeder master