Live Match At East Bilney Lakes

In this instalment of the Match Masterclass Steve heads to the stunning East Bilney Complex, to fish the midweek open match. Steve explains his approach to match fishing, sharing his thought process and decision making along the way.

 

Pole Floats

Drennan AS3 Pole Float - View HERE

Having the correct pole float is critical to presenting your bait in the desired way. When fishing through the water Steve chooses a carbon stem float as it allows him to easily identify bite indications as his bait is falling. Alternatively, when fishing a positive stable rig, Steve opts for a wire stem float to anchor his bait into position.

 

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 a 0.16 mainline with a 0.14 hook link.

 

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 1-3lb during Steve’s session, he used the sized 12-14 orange 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.    

 

Fishing 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 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 P25 Seatbox MKII - View HERE

When fishing with long poles, especially in windy conditions it's important you sit comfortably. Within the Matrix Seat Box range there is certainly something for everyone, offering extreme comfort at an affordable price.

 

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.