driftbeater

Taking a bag of fish by trotting does indeed require a modicum of skill, it is actually easier to trot a float using a centrepin and bait presentation is better as the line is taken off the reel smoothly, the bait can also be held back by applying pressure to the spinning drum. There are so many aspects to fishing and all of them, to be successfull, require skill of some sort. For me, however, stalking a big Carp at close range in a snaggy area requires many different angling skills in order to extract the fish. But for sheer angling pleasure, trotting for Roach on an autumn day with a pin takes some beating. Martin.

There is no need to put any backing on your centrepin reel. I use wide drum Aerial reels for Carp fishing and have had no problems with bedding in, however, should you be using your reel for trotting, you may experience "jerking" as the line is pulled off the reel by the float, particularly after landing a fish. So, if it is to be used for trotting, Andrew's suggestion of between 50 and 70 yards should be fine, unless you happen to hook a Barbel...................... Martin

Whatever happened to an anglers apprenticeship ? Read some Crabtree and catch some Perch on the float. It is the natural progression as an angler, learning the essential watercraft and getting fishing in your blood which makes you a lifelong angler. Watch the Passion for Angling series and you will get my drift. There are so many "fad" anglers about, just look at the Carp gear for sale, probably to finance the next fad. Golf anyone ? Martin.