If you’re looking for the ideal pop-up to tip a snowman rig then these are well worth checking out. The tiny sizes in these tubs are a fairly recent addition to the Baitcraft range, and every one is well rolled, smells brilliant and stays popped-up for a very long time. I particularly like the Juicy Fruit, Tutti and Snowball versions, but see no reason why the others won’t be equally successful. Marc CoulsonRRP: £6.
On the right venue I am a real braid fan and have advocated its use in certain situations for many years. There’s always been a trade-off, however, between a braid that casts well and one that sinks. Generally, you cannot have one without sacrificing the other. The 832 was first given to me to play around with last year, and it took me a while to spool it up.
This neat little pouch, with four internal, clear-lid pouches, is ideal for storing different types of leads. I keep one in the boot of my car when fishing and use it as a spare reservoir of leads, if you like. I only take half a dozen or so to my swim, but I know that I always have spare leads of different style and size there if I need them. It’s become one of those essential items, so I’d happily recommend it, although £23 is quite a lot for leads bag.
In the search for a robust mono that would sink and not let me down in the weedier spots of my new syndicate, I was recommended the Syncro XT. After a good soak in warm water it spooled up really easily and, despite it being 15lb, it bedded down quite nicely on the spool. I’ve since used it on several occasions and it has performed exactly how I need it to. One particular carp decided to charge through a hefty marginal snag just prior to netting, but the line held firm despite lots of grating.
The Z1 is classed as a 1½-man shelter, so is slightly larger than average. I’ve never taken half a mate fishing, but if I want to take loads of gear and ‘plot up’ this is spot-on. It’s just as quick to set it up and dismantle too, despite the extra size. I’ve been really impressed because the thoughtful features are evident from the first use.
Matching boilies and low-oil pellets in the new N-V range. Already catching loads of carp in the UK and beyondRRP: £10. 95 and £4. 95 per kiloContact: 0208 941 7771or www.
Classic-flavour white pop-ups in the Sticky Hi Attract range. Remain buoyant and attractive for long periodsRRP: £5. 99Contact: 01430 448322 or www. stickybaits.
Revolutionary new liquid that clouds the water for ages. Great as a dip or added to stick and spod mixes RRP: £11. 99 per 115ml bottleContact: 01268 522417or www. korda.