Little knocks when feeder fishing

[The Flying Tench]

We've all experienced it, specially with maggot feeder. Little knocks or trembles on the quiver tip which may or may not lead to a bite.

 

But there are two possible causes: fish attacking the feeder, or playing with the bait. It can make a difference how we respond. For example, if they are attacking the feeder but not the bait there might be a case for shortening the hook link.

 

Has anyone any ways of telling which it is?

[Ken L]

My most common rig is a fairly heavy cage feeder and a shortish (20cm or so) hook link set up in a simple running ledger type rig.

My only adaptation is that I put a rubber stop bead on the line about 30cm from the feeder. If I start to get taps and bumps, it's usually fish bumping the feeder but if I'm getting frustrated, I just slide the bead down right behind the feeder to form an instant (and safe) bolt rig.

It works but as it's not exactly uncommon to have a little skimmer hang it's self but not move the feeder, it needs checking very regularly.

[lutra]

if your having problems with it, try a cast or two with no hook on. You maybe surprised how many bites you still get.

 

I often start a feeder session with no hooklength and a biggish feeder on just to get some bait out. It can be amazing what bites you get. Even rod wrenchers not just little taps when there are biggish fish about.