How to choose the right feeder

With so many feeders available to fishermen, selecting the correct type of swimfeeder to use can be tricky.

You may think that clipping any old feeder onto your Paternoster link or onto your free-running swivel will work for you - but the truth is it's often not that simple.

The reason why there are so many different types of swim feeder is because venues vary and circumstances vary, so manufacturers created a variety of different types to ensure that anglers can use the optimim style of feeder to suit the circumstances they are facing.

Here's our guide...

OPEN ENDED FEEDERS

These solid plastic feeders, with a few holes drilled in the sides, are best used with groundbait when feeder fishing in water deeper than four feet.

They are excellent for presenting small amounts of freebaits. To do this plug one end with groundbait, add a few freebies, then plug the other end with more groundbait to sandwich the free offerings.

MESH CAGE FEEDERS

Cage feeders are designed to release groundbait quicker than a conventional open-ended feeder.

The mesh allows water to wash out the groundbait easier. This makes cage feeders ideal when fishing in shallow water of less than four feet.

Cage feeders are not to be used in deep water as the groundbait will have been washed out long before the feeder hits the bottom.

BLOCK-END FEEDERS

This type of feeder is for use with live baits, such as maggots, pinkies or squatts.

Once cast in, the grubs slowly work their way out, leaving an enticing pile of bait around your hookbait.

The baits rate of escape can be controlled - widen the feeder’s holes for a faster release, or wrap PVC tape around the feeder to cover some of the holes to slow down the bait release.

KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR...

1. METHOD FEEDERS

Fished with a very short hooklink. Pack a ball of groundbait around the feeder before casting in, the fish will then knock the feeder about, find the hookbait close by and hook themselves.