ADTV Match Masterclass - Margin Fishing For Big Carp At Decoy Lakes

For this installment of the Match Masterclass, we join Stephen Crowe at the beautiful Decoy lakes, for a masterclass in margin fishing for BIG CARP! Steve showcases his biggest secrets on the best rigs and baits to try, he also goes into detail on the best areas to target those match-winning carp.

Pole Floats

Drennan Margin Crystal Fishing Float - View HERE

Having the correct pole float is critical to presenting your bait in the desired way. When fishing in the margin Steve chooses a Crystal Margin Float as the thick bristle allows him to easily identify a bite.

Rig Line

Preston Reflo Power - View HERE

Although your choice of rig line varies for each venue and target fish, a strong reliable line will give you the confidence you need. For this session, Steve used 0.18 mainline with a 0.16 hooklink.

Elastic

Matrix Slik Elastics - View HERE

Since Steve changed to Matrix Slik elastic he has never looked back. The Slik elastic acts like the perfect hybrid elastic as you can get the stretch of hollow elastic but after a few pulls on the puller bung, you notice the power of a solid elastic. With the fish averaging 6-12lb during Steve’s session, he used the green Slik elastic.

Toss Pots

Matrix Flexible Toss Pots - View HERE

For Steve, most of his fishing relies on accuracy, so he finds that utilizing a toss pot allows you to feed in exactly the same spot every time. Steve uses the Matrix Flexible pots as they can be adjusted in size and come supplied with a variety of lid options.

Hooks

Matrix MXC-2 X-Strong Spade End Barbless Hooks - View HERE

As anglers, we can be a bit fussy with hooks as there is always the challenge of trying to find the best shape and pattern for each occasion. However, Steve finally settled on the MXC range from Matrix for his fishing session. Within this range of fishing hooks, you will find a hook to suit all your angling needs, the fact they are also PTFE coated is another big plus.

Shot

Guru Micro Fishing Lead Shot - View HERE

It is important to have a shot that doesn’t damage your line as the last thing you need is to lose that match-winning fish due to your shot creating a weak point in your rig. For all of Steve’s pole rigs, he uses the Guru Micro Shot as these are nice and easy to apply and don’t damage your line.

Seat Box

Matrix S25 Superbox Lime Fishing Seat Box - View HERE

When fishing with long poles, especially in windy conditions it's important you sit comfortably. The Matrix S36 is certainly at the higher end of the range, but it does offer extreme comfort and can easily be adjusted to suit your needs. 

Pole Rollers

Matrix Freeflow Quad Roller - View HERE

Pole rollers are often over-looked and something anglers spend very little money on compared to the fishing pole itself, however, having a pole roller that is firstly friendly on the delicate carbon, and secondly fully adjustable to suit uneven banks will ensure you can fish effectively and protect your pole from damage.

Pole

Matrix MTX3 Ultra 16m Pole Package - View HERE

Poles can be expensive and certainly require a good amount of research before making a purchase. Steve finds the MTX3 Ultra 16m Pole Package from Matrix is everything you need to take the edge in a competitive situation.

Pellets

SonuBaits Fin Perfect Feed Pellets - View HERE

When fishing in the margin Steve likes to use either groundbait or 2mm pellets, with groundbait not allowed at Decoy Steve opted for the 2mm pellet option. To get the full rundown on how to prepare these correctly, make sure to watch the video. 

Booster Liquid

Sonubaits Bait Booster Fluoro - View HERE

Steve has never been shy to acknowledge liquids and flavors play a big part in his fishing, for this session Steve used the Sonubaits bait booster to add that all-important attraction.