s r e p r AVID ca g g n n i i p p r r a a c c 33DD www.avidcarp.com
FREE
S C TI C TA w e n t ho
w o n t h g i r y r t to
Drop Everything
The safest in-line rig ever!
take the tube
Tubing tactics with Finchy
the Chod Explained
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Ian’s Russell’s
Ways To Catch
anywhere
Hookbait secrets unveiled...
Chods don’t come better than this!
bag up on solid bags
Mark Bartlett reveals his biggest edges PLUS: Terminal Tackle Tips galore Presentation aids explained spodding: how the pros do it how to organise your swim Avid Clothing finally revealed
CONTENTS
S R E P R A C D I AV 33DDCCAARRPPIINNGG carp.com
www.avid
FREE
TACTICS HOT NEWRIGHT NOW
HING DROP EVERYT e rig ever! TAKE THE TUBE
The safest in-lin
TO TRY
Tubing tactics
with Finchy
D EXPLAINE THE CHODbett er than this! e GS BA LID SO ON BAG UP biggest edges
Chods don’t com
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Mark Bartlett
TCH WAYS TO CA E
ANYWHER
led...
rets unvei
Make them ‘ave it!
COLOUR
Avid Carp have designed modern boilie stops that add colour to your hookbaits
Find out more about these brilliant presentation aids by flicking to page 8
team avid
name age uk pb occupation profile:
I generally use the same few rigs for all my carp fishing. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it, as the saying goes, so rather than confuse the issue with three different rigs, I’m going to tell you about how I’ve been incorporating colour into my hookbait presentation to get more bites all over the country. I use coated braids for the majority of my rigs. Why? Because they’re so versatile and really easy to work with. Their semistiffness reduces tangles and the coating protects the hooklink, making it strong and resistant to abrasion. At Avid we’re working on some new types of coated braid based around the preferences and fishing styles of myself and the rest of the consultancy team, so it’s these that I tend to use on most occasions.
Ian Russell
“THE EXTRA VISUAL ATTRACTION OF THE CORN STOP WILL HAVE LOADS OF FISH INVESTIGATING“
49 43lb 10oz Angling tutor
Ian is a qualified angling coach and one of the country’s elite carp anglers. He’s widely regarded as the country’s top day ticket fishery expert.
I usually use a rig that has served me so well it’s ridiculous. It makes use of a curved short shank hook with a kicker of shrink tubing. The tubing helps the hook turn and grab hold in a carp’s mouth, which is what I’m aiming for from this bottom bait presentation.
He’s the twice Total Carp magazine Battlecarp match winner, a Carp Wars winner with Crafty Carper magazine, the 1999/2000 Daiwa Masters winner and a regular British Carp Angling Championships finalist.
For details on Avid Carp Presentation Aids see page 8.
He’s caught eight 40lb+ carp in the UK.
WAYS
If you like using Chod rigs, you might want to try Avid HIGH LITE baits
Find out more about these incredibly buoyant hookbaits on page 14
The Chod rig is arguably the most popular modern carp rig around, and we at Avid recognise that you’re all big fans of this type of presentation. It’s why we’ve devised products like the mentally buoyant HIGH LITES, and the awesome CHOD BEADS. The idea behind a Chod Rig is to make ejecting the hookbait really difficult for the carp, and I’m going to tell you about my favourite way of setting up this brilliantly effective arrangement.
THE
CHOD EXPLAINED with team avid’s mat woods
Avid’s media maestro Mat Woods reveals how you can tie the simplest
TO CATCH
1 Sight Stops and Corn Stops are available in different colours, lengths, sizes and buoyancies. They add colour to an otherwise ordinary hookbait presentation.
2 The hard-wearing peg simply fits into the loop of your hair rig like this. This leaves no rough edges and no exposed bait stop, for a very smooth finish and attractive look.
3 I like the buoyant Corn Stops for most of my fishing, balancing them out with a flavour-packed bottom bait or wafter. Tweak the buoyancy to your own preferences.
AVID CARPERS
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First off, you’re going to need a good Chod hook and the one you choose really is down to personal preference. I prefer a beaked point myself, as Choddies are really short in length and it gives me more confidence when playing fish. I also choose a hook with an out-turned eye. This isn’t essential, but it helps form the neat curve in the hooklink that seems so essential to this rig’s success.
This is attached to a small RING SWIVEL, which can spin and rotate freely very easily thanks to the mega buoyant HIGH LITE hookbait, which is trying to pull everything upwards. Because they’re so buoyant, you can include some tungsten putty on the knot to stop it floating in mid-water!
All you need to do then is cast the HIGH LITE to an area with a few fish about and you’ll catch loads, trust me! The HIGH LITES are
name age uk pb occupation
so stupendously buoyant that we swear they’re actually scared of water. The great thing about them is they take flavours into their fluffy outer really well, but the middle of the HIGH LITE is a closed cell structure, so it will never lose any buoyancy.
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Media & Marketing Co-ordinator
These ingenious Chod Beads are prethreaded onto wires, so they can be threaded directly onto the main line for maximum grip, even on light lines.
Mat Woods
3 Thread the larger part of the Chod Bead onto the line, followed by your Chod Rig (on an Avid Ring Swivel) and then the smaller, grippy part of the Chod Bead.
45lb 9oz Tackle-shop owner
He currently runs Bankside Tackle shop in Gloucestershire, so he knows a thing or two about carp tackle. Whether he’s chasing scaly beasts at day ticket waters in the UK or trying to smash his personal best overseas, he’s consistently catching big fish.
TUBING TACTICS with team avid’s jon Finch
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He’s a short session expert and writes loads of features for carp magazines all over the globe. In fact, he’s a bit of a walking thesaurus!
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2 Loop your main line through the end of one of the wire loops. No fuss, no baiting needles, no piercing beads through the side. Chod Beads are a total solution.
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profile:
And that’s it, really. Simple, effective and most importantly – safe. All thanks to the brilliant design of the CHOD BEADS. Get on ‘em!
HOW MAT USES CHOD BEADS...
Jon Finch
‘Finchy’ is a former British Carp Angling Champion and renowned as an expert floater fisherman and solid PVA bag maestro. He’s a mobile angler and a rig perfectionist, which makes him an integral part of the Avid development team.
I like to fish a slack line with this setup because the hookbait almost becomes balanced, sinking under the weight of the line. When a carp sucks at the bait, the whole lot lifts and goes further into their mouth. Nailed!
27 37lb 12oz
Discover more about Avid Carp terminal tackle products, see pages 18-23
The grippy part of the Chod Bead allows you to set the rig at any distance from the lead, whilst the larger part has a big bore through the centre for safety. Check out avidcarp.com for all the latest news and updates
5 Before tying on your lead, thread on one of these new Chod Buffers. They’ll totally neaten your Chod Rig setups and will streamline the lead for casting.
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Read on and discover how Jon Finch creates the safest and most user-friendly rig arrangements you’ve ever seen
I like to leave the swivel of the lead on to create this hinge. This stops the line kicking up from the lakebed, giving me the perfect Chod Rig setup. Get it on!
AVID CARPERS
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“HONESTLY, THIS IS THE BEST TUBING I’VE EVER USED AND THE FACT IT’S PRE-THREADED IS JUST A BONUS.“
Tubing. For many, it’s a necessary evil because so many waters ban leadcore and leaders. For me, it’s a great way to set up a really safe carp rig, which is why I’m going to show you the way I fish with it to make the most of this awesome material.
The two part construction means the grippy, lower bead keeps everything in place, whilst the top barrel bead – which has a large bore through the middle – can still eject from the leader should I suffer a line breakage. It’s so easy to put together, which is why I love it so much.
Mat Woods
Mat has caught carp from just about every county in the UK. The former carp magazine editor has over a decade’s experience fishing busy day ticket waters, and loves fishing the types of venue that anybody can go and fish.
On fisheries that ban leadcore, tubing is the perfect alternative to stay within the rules
team avid
“MY PREFERENCE IS TO USE CHOD BEADS DIRECTLY ONTO MY MAIN LINE.“
Obviously, you need a stiff mono hooklink and there are quite a few bespoke materials out there for tying Choddies. I like the clear versions myself, and tend to keep the rig itself between 1 and 3 inches long. The curve is usually progressive and not too extreme, so I’m basically creating one big, curved hook.
Take the tube
TUBING TACTICS
My preference is to use CHOD BEADS directly onto my main line. The bottom part of the CHOD BEAD grips really tightly, so I can set the Chod rig itself a few feet from the DISTANCE LEAD I tend to use with this setup. A CHOD BUFFER neatens the presentation.
and safest naked Chod rig ever. name age uk pb occupation profile:
The UK’s most popular carp fishing coach reveals three presentations that will help you catch loads more carp! Check out avidcarp.com for all the latest news and updates
Become a top chodder
IN CHOD WE TRUST
team avid
The hookbait choice is up to you really, but I prefer dumbbell shapes. These are ideal when used in conjunction with a CORN STOP, because they sit really neatly against the top of the dumbbell. Depending on where I’m fishing, I’ll use a buoyant CORN STOP or a sinking version, but it’s key with both to use a long hair to give that hookbait loads of movement. The visual attraction of the CORN STOP will have loads of fish investigating, so I tie these rigs up with a figure-of-eight loop knot at the end. This way, I can use them with SPEED LINKS on the Avid FLAT CLIPS. This clip was made for quick-change fishing when you’re getting loads of bites, so harness it like I have!
HOW IAN USES STOPS...
ANYWHERE 4
PLUS:
LE TIPS GALORE TERMINAL TACK D AIDS EXPLAINE PRESENTATION THE PROS DO IT SPODDING: HOW E YOUR SWIM HOW TO ORGANIS REVEALED FINALLY AVID CLOTHING
ll’s
Ian’s Russe
Hookbait sec
reveals his
Check out avidcarp.com for all the latest news and updates
At Avid, we’ve developed some ingenious new systems that remove all the old problems that used to be associated with anti-tangle tubing. For starters, you’ll never need to sit there looking like a lemon trying to thread tungsten tubing onto your main line. In fact, we’ve done that for you with the brilliant THREAD & GO TUBING, which is pre-threaded on wires. Simply remove the little stopper, put your main line through the loop in the wire, and thread the tubing up your line! When ‘Shoes’ first showed me this simple idea I was blown away, it removed a problem which has hassled carp anglers for years. It comes in three different colours and is the most supple and heavy tubing we could get our hands on. Honestly, this is the best
tubing I’ve ever used and the fact that it’s pre-threaded is just a bonus. It’s not mega thick, it has no memory, and it nails itself to the lakebed. It will follow the contours of the lakebed, it’s a matt finish and it’s also really abrasion resistant. What’s more, there’s a Choddy Brown, a Silty Black and a Weedy Green, so no matter where you’re fishing, there’s something to blend in to the lakebed. The diameter of the tubing isn’t mega thick like some heavy tubing’s and the colours are fantastic – none are really dark. The tubing is tough enough to withstand abrasive objects like snags or weed, making it a great choice on small venues that tend to have a lot more overhanging trees, or gravel pits where the bars can rub against your line whilst playing fish.
TIP It’s important to match the colour of your tubing to the lakebed you’re fishing over. THREAD & GO is available in Weedy Green for weedy venues, Silty Black for silty venues, and Choddy Brown for lakes with clay, gravel or lightly silted areas.
HOW FINCHY USES TUBING...
1 Avid Carp Tube Gripper Clips are a two part construction. You’ll need to team it with one of the two sizes of Tailrubbers, short or long. The longer version is great for longer casts, reducing tangles.
4 The internal gripping chamber locks into position inside the Tube Gripper Clip. This locks the swivel in place, as grips the tubing inside the Clip, preventing it slipping out and up your main line.
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Here you can see the outer element of the Tube Gripper Clip, along with the internal ‘gripping’ chamber. Finchy likes the shorter Tailrubber because he fishes venues with clear water all the time.
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Tie an Avid Carp Ring Swivel on the end of your main line and thread your Thread & Go tubing through the Tube Gripper Clip, as shown. Line up in the internal gripping chamber like this.
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The locking pin secures everything into position and neatens the entire setup. This means the swivel is semi-fixed inside, so the rig is safe and the lead can eject more easily when snagged.
All that remains now is to thread on your favourite lead from the Avid Carp range (see page 26) and tie on your rig. Both Thread & Go tubing and Tube Gripper Clips have made the setup simple.
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AVID CARPERS
Catch Anywhere
Top of the Chods
Anti-tangle masterclass
Ian Russell’s hookbait tips, page 4
Mat Woods’ chod tactics, page 14
Jon Finch on tubing, page 22
Find out more about Sight Stops, Corn Stops, Maggot Stops, High Lites and Zig Lites on pages 8-13.
Discover more about Avid’s bespoke Chod fishing terminal tackle from page 16, so you can tie the ultimate Chod rigs.
Check out pages 20-21 to find out more about the tubing and terminal tackle used by the Avid Carp experts.
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Avid Carp 2011
avidcarp.com
Shoes’ secret summer tactics
Read all about Shoes’ crafty approach with zigs and sloppy spod mix
Turn to page 40 to find out more about this awesome and innovative approach
Welcome to the Avid Carp Consumer Magazine, where we’re trying to put the emphasis on ‘magazine’ as much as possible, by providing you with tips, tricks and tactics that should help you put more carp on the bank. Sure, there’ll still be a focus on our new products for 2011, but we want to present them in a slightly different way. This is not your standard tackle catalogue, but what else did you expect? Our ethos is always to look at things from another angle and we hope this year’s Consumer Magazine reflects our beliefs and the same forward-thinking approach we apply to product design. Here at Avid, we’re always looking to develop products that are best-suited to you, the modern carp fisherman. We’ve considered all the latest trends and edges and tried to provide innovative ideas and solutions that will help you fish to the best of your ability. From terminal tackle designed to disappear on the lakebed, to presentation aids that’ll give you an edge over other anglers, we’re constantly re-thinking tackle to make it as good as we can. The last 18 months have been brilliant for us and we have to thank you for all your kind comments and feedback regarding the product range. It seems that we’re getting a lot of things right and we want to continue the good relationship we’re building with you, the anglers.
One of many awesome big carp caught on Avid products during the testing stages in 2010. These are products you can read about for the first time in this catalogue. Enjoy!
So to prove how much we care about upping your catch rate, the 2011 Consumer Magazine includes some brilliant features from members of our consultancy team, who all have their own unique way of approaching carp fishing. Whether you want the inside line on solid PVA bag fishing, or just want to learn more about creating the ultimate Chod Rig presentation, we’ve covered the bases with an exclusive look at how some of the most forward-thinking anglers in the country go about their angling. We’ve tried to take into account the methods that are most effective both on busy day ticket waters and tricky syndicate lakes. The lakes you fish every day. We know you’re battling against both the carp and the anglers around you, so in these pages we’ve asked the likes of Ian Russell, Jon Finch, Mark Bartlett, Nige Williams and Mat Woods to contribute some worthwhile advice on how to catch more fish! I’ve even chipped in with a few secrets of my own too, so read on and enjoy the shape of things to come. I’m sure you’ll enjoy what we have in store for 2011. Regards,
Shoes
Jon ‘Shoes’ Jones
Bags to riches
SAFETY FIRST
If you’ve a huge fan of solid PVA bags, you’ll love the Avid Carp Bag Loader Kit
Read about this great product and the brilliant Transfer range of PVA from page 34
P G IN O TH Y R R E D V E
Carp fishing is changing all the time and if you want to stay one step ahead of other anglers and make every bite count then you’re sure to have used a drop-off lead at some point in your fishing. It’s changed from an underground tactic that very few people knew about to something much more mainstream, but if you use the wrong components it’s easy to create a rig that’s actually very unsafe.
team avid
Nigel Williams 35 37lb Self-employed
ige rN u e gle yo lin an ws ining sho -off sed u ink s op Th liam t dr ever Wil bes e’s the tup h se
name age uk pb occupation profile:
with Nige Willia ms
Nige is an out-and-out big fish hunter and has succeeded on numerous low stock venues around the UK. He’s a creative angler and a long range casting expert, who’s full of innovative ideas and solutions.
The second idea we discussed was what is now known and sold as the DROP-OFF STEM. Before this was designed, anglers were using swivels they’d altered with pliers and it generally made it possible to create a fixed lead by accident. Other anglers who were showing the setup in magazines were using standard swivels, so the lead was essentially fixed to the main line making it very unsafe.
The not-so-humble Drop Off Stem is designed especially for in-line lead setups that are designed to drop the lead when a fish gets hooked.
2 The In-Line Groove Lead (see page 26) is a bespoke lead for the popular drop-off in-line lead setup. The groove houses your leader or main line safely.
This setup is best used in weedy or snaggy situations, and will help you put more fish on the bank. Without a lead in the way, it’s a lot easier to get carp to the net. So give it a whirl. For this type of fishing scenario, it’s absolutely ideal.
team avid
Nige Williams
name age uk pb occupation profile:
3 Note how the Drop Off Stem fits neatly inside the lead. The ring on the outside is where you need to attach both your rig and your leader or main line.
Mark Bartlett 28 39lb 8oz Fishery owner
Mark is probably the best up and coming star in the carp game, having caught big carp from just about every difficult day ticket venue you can think of. He can cast for miles, and has a and lots of carp.
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Check out avidcarp.com for all the latest news and updates
5 One of the super soft Avid Carp Tailrubbers is threaded onto the leadcore. This is what will hold everything in position neatly.
The innovative Air Range and Surface Spod can be seen on pages 36-39
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Bart is a renowned solid PVA bag and
The Tailrubber fits over the end of the lead’s plastic insert, keeping the leadcore flush. It’s safe, and can be cast out without the lead coming off.
AVID CARPERS
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Zig expert and only goes fishing if he knows he can smash ‘em up! Perfect, then, to ask about getting more bites!
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TIME TO
BAG
During this period, I got to see the methods and tactics used by some
name age uk pb occupation profile:
Jon Jones
It began when we sat down and discussed lead shapes for the first time. The BAG LEAD was something I wanted for my range fishing with bags. Because the lead is the same shape as the bag, it spreads the weight more evenly in the finished solid bag, so it casts a lot better. It’s also got a low profile and sits neatly on the lakebed, so it doesn’t spook fish like a big square lead.
The bags are so strong, but they’re strong where it counts. The seams are all double welded, so the bag will never burst whilst it’s being loaded up. The number of times other bags have split open and spilt a load of pellets in my bivvy is ridiculous, but with the TRANSFER bags you can really compact them without worrying about this problem.
Shoes is one of the carp industry’s
I usually use a leader of some variety to use when solid bagging. I always tie up short, 12 inch leadcore leaders so I can have dozens of solid bags with rigs inside pre-tied. It suits my speed fishing.
They don’t stick together either, which used to be a real bugbear of mine. A TRANSFER bag can be opened without a baiting needle, unlike other brands. That’s just another reason why they’re the best.
He’s got decades of carp fishing
Solid PVA bags enable you to present an ultra-short hooklink with a small package of bait wherever you’re casting. They’re great for all kinds of fishing, and a superior alternative to standard mesh PVA presentations.
AVID CARPERS
Check out the feature-packed HQ along with all our other brilliantly designed bivvies from page 46
As many of you will know, I was involved with the organisation of the British Carp Angling Championships for over a decade.
The TRANSFER PVA itself is just epic. No word of a lie, we looked at dozens of different types of PVA film before we found the right one, and then we had to tweak the breakdown rate so it wasn’t going to leave a mess around the hookbait. The result is the toughest, most soluble PVA I’ve ever used. And believe me, I’ve used the lot.
with team avid’s mark bartlett
Check out avidcarp.com for all the latest news and updates
Shoes created and designed the Avid Carp HQ bivvy as the ultimate shelter
team avid
It’s hardly a secret that I use solid PVA bags for most of my fishing. I absolutely love ‘em! I think the benefits of this presentation far outweigh any of the negatives, and as Avid have pretty much solved every problem associated with the tactic, there’s never been a better time to make the most of this setup.
UP Carp botherer Mark Bartlett shows you how to make solid PVA bag fishing easier than ever before...
A place to call home
SPOD THINKING
“THE RESULT IS THE TOUGHEST, MOST SOLUBLE PVA I’VE EVER USED. AND BELIEVE ME, I’VE USED THE LOT.“
frightening natural ability to catch lots
A length of leadcore is spliced onto the ring of the Drop Off Stem and the leadcore is then sat neatly into the groove of the In-Line Groove lead.
If, like Mark, you like to put a lot of bait in, check out the new Avid Carp spods
All you need to do is tie your main line or leader to the same forged ring in the DROP-OFF STEM that you tie your rig too. The DROP-OFF STEM goes inside the inline lead, whilst the leader goes around the lead in the dedicated groove. The INSERT of the lead is then semi-fixed against the leader by a TAIL RUBBER. When a fish pulls against the rig, the DROP-OFF STEM comes out of the lead, allowing it to drop from the line. This leaves you in direct contact with the fish.
HOW NIGE USES THE DROP OFF STEM...
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Viva la revolution
GET BAGGING
With the DROP-OFF STEM, it’s the FIRST item of terminal tackle designed to be used with a drop-off in-line lead. Obviously, in conjunction with the IN-LINE GROOVE LEAD, you have the perfect, bespoke setup for this type of presentation.
of and every country you can think
He famously bagged a 70lb carp for the cameras on the first Avid ‘In Session’ DVD and is developing a bit of a track record for catching 30s from day ticket waters.
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I’m passionate about protecting the future of our sport and rig safety is high on my agenda. It’s why I bounced some ideas around with Jon ‘Shoes’ Jones, who’s in charge of product development at Avid. One of these was, of course, the IN-LINE GROOVE LEAD, which allows you wrap the leader around the lead without it ever getting damaged. Previously, this ‘aroundthe-outside’ system left the leader exposed to getting bashed against the lakebed on the cast, but the IN-LINE GROOVE LEAD removes this possibility and even enables you to fish a drop-off lead with straight main line or fluorocarbon.
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of carp fishing’s elite and it taught me a lot about the best ways to catch lots and lots of carp.
36lb Avid Gaffer
most revered product designers. With numerous innovations to his name, he’s the reason why Avid Carp tackle is as clever and as forward-thinking as it can be.
3D
experience and is recognized as one of carp fishing’s most inventive minds.
Product design genius and creative angler Jon Jones looks at how you can catch more carp this year by putting more bait in the right place
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Check out avidcarp.com for all the latest news and updates
One of these methods, which simply cannot go unmentioned, is the tactic of spodding to keep carp in your swim. This tactic works all year around and when done with the right kit, you can really make it count. I’ve spent the last 18 months developing and perfecting the AIR RANGE spods, and I believe we’ve found the perfect mix of aerodynamics and usability. The unique hinge mechanism means you don’t have the problem of spod tails getting in the way during loading and flicking bait everywhere, whilst the shape and ultra-buoyant nose cone ensure a smooth flight and effortless retrieve. They come in two sizes, and are available with or without holes. This means you can now spod with accuracy, at range, without any of the usual associated fuss. They retrieve better than any other spod I’ve ever used, and are one of my favourite Avid products. Solid bodied spods were an obvious step for us, given the popularity of spodding soupier mixtures. People are taping up their
spods all the time, so why not do a solid spod that’s bespoke for the task? Especially if you’re an angler spodding over Zig rigs. Now Zigs are obviously very productive in their own right, fished in isolation. In fact, during the testing of our ZIG LITES, we found that a two-tone hookbait fished a few feet under the surface could result in some absolutely mind-blowing captures. If you can’t get your head around using Zigs in isolation, then spodding a soupy mixture to the area you’re fishing your Zigs can be a great way to drive carp wild. On heavier stocked lakes, creating a column of food in the water is a brilliant way to get shoals of carp competing aggressively for food items. With a couple of ZIG LITES bobbing around in this soup of food, bites are always quick to come by and boy do they keep on coming! In ZIG LITES the hookbait choice is made for you. Nothing else on the market is as buoyant or as effective, so get them on the end of your line and get an instant edge over other anglers. Your hook just needs to be a small, strong pattern and the hooklink itself only needs to be a decent 10lb breaking strain monofilament.
HOW SHOES TIES ZIG RIGS...
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CARPING
Some of the more modern techniques would have blown our minds 20 years ago, but the fact is some of these more gung-ho methods win matches and are often the best way to get loads of bites.
I’ve designed a number of bespoke products for Zig Rig fishing, from the mega buoyant Zig Lites to the unique Zig Clips. They’re my first choice for Zigs.
4 ...I much prefer to use the special cleat on the top of the Zig Clip, which is designed so you can whip PVA tape around instead of using a Tailrubber.
2 The Zig Clips are attached just like any other lead clip. It can be used with or without a Tailrubber. If I do use one, I use the longer type to prevent tangles.
5 Zig Lites are great hookbaits and you can use a barrel shape or a two-tone version. I think one of the little Maggot Stops just adds more visual attraction.
3 The Zig Clip is held in place with a retaining peg. As you can see, here I’m using a Tailrubber to hold the Swivel Distance lead in place, but in weed...
6 Job done. The PVA on the Zig Clip will hold the lead in place for casting but when you get a take, it will have melted, so the lead will eject immediately.
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AVID CARPERS
Drop-off systems
Solid evidence
Fishing the upper layers
Nige Williams talks safety, page 28
Mark Bartlett’s solid bag tips, page 32
Jon ‘Shoes’ Jones on spodding, page 40
Like Avid Carp leads? Check them out on pages 26-27 to see why our camouflage coating is superior to all others.
The Transfer PVA bags and the Bag Loader system used by Team Avid are detailed on pages 30-31. It’s the best PVA out there!
The new Air Range spods are revealed on page 36 whilst Shoes’ favourite Zig Lite hookbaits are back on page 13.
AVID carpers
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COLOUR team avid
name Ian Russell age 49 uk pb 43lb 10oz occupation Angling tutor profile:
Ian is a qualified angling coach and one of the country’s elite carp anglers. He’s widely regarded as the country’s top day ticket fishery expert. He’s the twice Total Carp magazine Battlecarp match winner, a Carp Wars winner with Crafty Carper magazine, the 1999/2000 Daiwa Masters winner and a regular British Carp Angling Championships finalist. He’s caught eight 40lb+ carp in the UK.
ways to catch
ANYWHERE The UK’s most popular carp fishing coach reveals three presentations that will help you catch loads more carp!
4
Check out avidcarp.com for all the latest news and updates
Make them ‘ave it!
Avid Carp have designed modern boilie stops that add colour to your hookbaits
Find out more about these brilliant presentation aids by flicking to page 8
I generally use the same few rigs for all my carp fishing. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it, as the saying goes, so rather than confuse the issue with three different rigs, I’m going to tell you about how I’ve been incorporating colour into my hookbait presentation to get more bites all over the country. I use coated braids for the majority of my rigs. Why? Because they’re so versatile and really easy to work with. Their semistiffness reduces tangles and the coating protects the hooklink, making it strong and resistant to abrasion. At Avid we’re working on some new types of coated braid based around the preferences and fishing styles of myself and the rest of the consultancy team, so it’s these that I tend to use on most occasions.
“The extra visual attraction of the CORN STOP will have loads of fish investigating“ I usually use a rig that has served me so well it’s ridiculous. It makes use of a curved short shank hook with a kicker of shrink tubing. The tubing helps the hook turn and grab hold in a carp’s mouth, which is what I’m aiming for from this bottom bait presentation.
For details on Avid Carp Presentation Aids see page 8.
The hookbait choice is up to you really, but I prefer dumbbell shapes. These are ideal when used in conjunction with a CORN STOP, because they sit really neatly against the top of the dumbbell. Depending on where I’m fishing, I’ll use a buoyant CORN STOP or a sinking version, but it’s key with both to use a long hair to give that hookbait loads of movement. The visual attraction of the CORN STOP will have loads of fish investigating, so I tie these rigs up with a figure-of-eight loop knot at the end. This way, I can use them with SPEED LINKS on the Avid FLAT CLIPS. This clip was made for quick-change fishing when you’re getting loads of bites, so harness it like I have!
HOW ian USEs STOPS...
1 Sight Stops and Corn Stops are available in different colours, lengths, sizes and buoyancies. They add colour to an otherwise ordinary hookbait presentation.
AVID carpers
2 The hard-wearing peg simply fits into the loop of your hair rig like this. This leaves no rough edges and no exposed bait stop, for a very smooth finish and attractive look.
3 I like the buoyant Corn Stops for most of my fishing, balancing them out with a flavour-packed bottom bait or wafter. Tweak the buoyancy to your own preferences.
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THREE WAYS TIP Rather than carrying numerous different colour hookbaits, let the Sight Stops and Corn Stops do the job. The multi-coloured versions will enable you to switch from yellow to pink in the change of a boilie stop, so whatever colour you like, there’s a quick Avid Stop solution.
HOW Ian USEs flat clips...
1 These Flat Clips are designed to take a Speed Link rather than a swivel. Both sizes of the Avid Speed Links will fit inside the Flat Clip, as will both lengths of Tailrubber.
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2 Thread on the Tailrubber and Flat Clip, before tying on your prefered Speed Link. Remove the peg from the Clip, so you can secure it into position on the Speed Link.
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4
The peg holds the Speed Link in position creating a really safe rig. The Speed Link means you can quickly change rigs with the minimum of fuss.
I tend to use figure-of-eight loop knots on the end of my rigs and use a small length of silicone to hold them in place on the Speed Link. Neat and simple, how cool is that?
Check out avidcarp.com for all the latest news and updates
The bivvy used by Ian Russell
The HQ bivvy is the most feature packed shelter on the market today
Turn to page 46 for details on this brilliant bivvy design
“trust me when I say both the buoyant and sinking versions will get you more bites.“
LEFT: The three hookbaits that Ian uses for the majority of his fishing. ABOVE: Recasting with different coloured baits can often trigger a bite.
I’m a big fan of fluorescent hookbaits and I’ve always been an avid user of pop-ups and wafters. By using a sinking CORN STOP with half a pop-up, I create a slow sinker that’s pukka for day ticket fishing. It’s great for casting at showing fish or using with small PVA bags, so if you fish shorter sessions like I do – where bites are the order of the day – it’s definitely the rig for you.
If nuisance species are around, or I’m fishing for big ‘uns, the only difference is I will use a bigger hook to correspond with a bigger boilie or tiger nut hookbait. This really sorts out the better carp, so if you’re after a big fish, this is the rig for you. You’ll have seen on the first Avid Carp In Session DVD how well CORN STOPS worked for me at Abbey Lakes in France, and trust me when I say both the buoyant and sinking versions will get you more bites.
The curved shanked hook seems to nail the fish as soon as they pick up the hookbait.
I hope these presentations have given you some ideas, hopefully they’ll be as successful for you as they have for me. Give them and try and remember, wherever you fish and whatever you fish for, you’ve got to make them ‘ave it!
I’d be more than happy taking this rig to any lake in the country because whether I’m fishing for 40s on a syndicate lake or doubles on a runs water, it works time and time again.
AVID carpers
Ian Russell
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PRESENTATION AIDS
Hookbait
presentation Here at Avid we’re firm believers that it’s the little things in life that can make a big difference. Especially out on the bank! This is why you’ve already seen a number of hookbait presentation aids that are designed to help you get more bites. From the user-friendly Sight Stops and Corn Stops, to the uberbuoyant High Lites, we’ve got the bases covered when it comes to hookbait perfection.
Whilst all these products add a visual attraction, they are also bullet proof solutions on venues filled with nuisance fish and crayfish. You’ll be hard pressed to find a more durable option. For years carp anglers had messed around trimming down pop-ups or using imitation baits to add a visual element to their hookbait, but we wanted to provide a number of ready-to-go solutions that met the needs of anglers looking for an edge. The Sight Stops, for example, were the brainchild of Avid’s product development guru Jon ‘Shoes’ Jones, who felt that a standard boilie stop had remained the same
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for years unnecessarily. It was Jon’s belief that the boilie stop needed to evolve in line with the fast-pace that carp fishing is evolving in the UK. There are more waters, more anglers and more carp, so a tiny change can make a big difference.
Sight Stops – the latter being slightly larger to add a noticeable amount of buoyancy. What’s more, we’ve also put together the best Zig fishing hookbaits we’ve ever used in Zig Lites. These catch so many carp it's unreal!
We’ve been inundated with reports from anglers telling us how they believe the Sight Stops and Corn Stops have made a change to their catch rate, with many telling us how they’re not only catching quicker, they’re catching a lot more too!
We are currently testing even more ingenious hookbait ideas that we’re sure will keep all Avid carp anglers at the very forefront of modern carping. Read on to see what’s currently available, because there might just be something here that’ll totally transform your presentation – and your catch rate.
It’s why we developed Maggot Stops, along with buoyant versions of Corn Stops and
Check out avidcarp.com for all the latest news and updates
Drop the lead every time
Fishing a weedy swim? Nige Williams has a lead setup that’s perfect for you
Turn to page 28 for further details on this clever lead arrangement
10mm
buoyant version
comin g
soon In Sight Add visual attraction to your hookbait. Sight Stops | Avid Carp | Code: AVSS/ • Durable plastic structure • User-friendly construction • Bright, visual colours • Available in a choice yellow or multi-coloured packs
Sight-stops provide a useful boilie stop that adds visual attraction to your hookbait, Available in long and short to suit the length of your hair. Available in: AVSs/Sy Sight Stops Short Yellow Avss/Sm Sight Stops Short Multi Coloured Avss/Ly Sight Stops Long Yellow Avss/Lm Sight Stops Long Multi Coloured
nige’S SIGHT STOP 70 Sight Stops | Avid Carp | Code: AVSS/SY • Bright colours to attract fish • Simple, easy to use design
As many people will know, I managed a right result on the last Avid Carp In Session DVD with the awesome Shoulders at 70lb+ from Abbey Lakes in France. At the time, we were all using the Sight Stops and Corn Stops to try and get some good shots for the cameras of them in a carp’s mouth. Suffice to say, we caught loads of fish on that trip and it was fate that Shoulders spotted that little yellow sight bob on my hookbait and decided ‘I’m having that!’ I think it’s no coincidence that in the gin clear waters of Abbey Lakes we caught better on baits with a small amount of visual appeal rather than just pure bright baits. Those carp are extremely pressured – probably more than any British carp – and they know the score. Small edges like Sight Stops make such a big difference on those venues. Another benefit, of course, was their resilience to crayfish. The Corn Stops and Sight Stops are a perfect defence. This 70lb beast was caught on a simple rig incorporating a yellow Sight Stop (inset). It was a new personal best!
AVID carpers
Nige Williams 9
STOPS
go with the grain
Mimic grains of sweetcorn Corn Stops | Avid Carp | AVCS • Durable plastic structure • User-friendly construction • Bright, visual colours.
CORN-STOPS combine the benefits of an imitation bait with a boilie stop, mimicking grains of sweetcorn perfectly. Available in long and short to suit the length of your hair. Available in: AVCS/SY Corn Stops Short Yellow Avcs/Sm Corn Stops Short Multi Coloured Avcs/Ly Corn Stops Long Yellow Avcs/Lm Corn Stops Long Multi Coloured
buoyant version comin g
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Ian’s corn stop toppers Corn Stops, floating | Avid Carp • Bright colours to attract carp • Simple, easy to use design • The ultimate sweetcorn imitation bait and boilie stop
I’m a huge fan of the Corn Stops and the new buoyant versions are my first choice for the majority of my fishing. The extra buoyancy you get creates a slow sinking hookbait that’s got a good splash of colour, so it suits my fishing where I’m trying to get quicker bites all the time. I’ve previously always been a huge advocate of plastic, foam and rubber baits, but these Corn Stops take that philosophy to a new level. The hook on the bottom of the sweetcorn shape gives you a much neater looking setup, with no fiddly bits of plastic in sight. Ultimately, I’m sure this gets you more bites, as the top of the hookbait is now totally smooth so it can never spook a carp that’s feeling its way around a swim with its barbules. I still like yellow as a topper, but when bites are hard to come by, I will always try the other colours. Get on em!
Ian Russell
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My rigs are always simple and so are my hookbaits. A good foodbait tipped with a yellow Corn Stop is just perfection!
Check out avidcarp.com for all the latest news and updates
Tactics from the maggot master
Mark Bartlett has caught more carp on maggots than we’ve had hot dinners
Find out more about his favourite solid PVA bag tactics on page 32
maggot
stops Make them ‘av it! Buoyant imitation maggot with boilie stop stems
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Maggot Stops | Avid Carp • Available in a variety of different colours • Ultra natural looking rubber maggots • User-friendly construction
MAGGOT STOPS are a buoyant imitation bait that fit with our unique boilie stop stems. The stems come in two different sizes to suit the length of the hair on your rig. The maggots themselves have a soft, realistic texture, and can also be used separately directly on the hook or as a mag-aligner.
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Maize Stops Mimic grains of jumbo maize Maize Stops | Avid Carp Durable plastic structure • Bright colours to attract fish • User-friendly construction • Increased buoyancy • Yellow and mixed colours available
MAIZE STOPS boast the same advantages as a CORN STOP, but are now available in this new, larger size. This offers increased buoyancy and further protection from nuisance species and crayfish. Available in long and short to suit your hair length.
AVID carpers
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HIGH LITES
scared of water Hyper-buoyant imitation boilies High Lites | Avid Carp • Perfect for Zig, Chod, Pop-Up and Snowman rigs • Built-in oils and attractants to fool the fish. • Bright, visual colours that attract carp • More buoyant than rubber or plastic baits
Provide an incredibly buoyant, flavoured imitation pop-up bait that can be used for a multitude of different purposes. Available in: AVHL/10Y High Lites 10mm Yellow AVHL/10R High Lites 10mm Red AVHL/10W High Lites 10mm White AVHL/10P High Lites 10mm Pink AVHL/10O High Lites 10mm Orange AVHL/10YO High Lites 10mm Orange/Yellow AVHL/10BK High Lites 10mm Black AVHL/14Y High Lites 14mm Yellow AVHL/14R High Lites 14mm Red AVHL/14W High Lites 14mm White AVHL/14P High Lites 14mm Pink AVHL/14O High Lites 14mm Orange AVHL/14YO High Lites 14mm Orange/Yellow AVHL/14BR High Lites 14mm Brown
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Avid Carp 2011
avidcarp.com
The shape of things to come Have you visited our superb website?
Put www.avidcarp.com into your internet browser
Fish like this whacker from Abbey Lakes are suckers for Zig rigs. The new Zig Lites were awesome over at Abbey during testing, as our consultant Jon Finch will confirm!
perfect zig hookbaits Zig Lites | Avid Carp | Code: AVzl • Perfect for all your Zig rig fishing needs • Colours chosen for maximum visual appeal • More buoyant than rubber or plastic baits
ZIGLITES provide an incredibly buoyant hookbait for anglers fishing up in the water with Zig rigs. Available in barrel shapes and round two-tone varieties, they are everything I could have ever wished for in a Zig hookbait. My favourites are the black and white and black and yellow versions, because I’ve always mixed and matched these colours for my Zigs. When fishing a hookbait in isolation, the black element is really important.
Zig Lites are available in eight varieies. There are four two tone round baits in 10mm, and four solid-coloured barrel shapes. Perfect for all your Zig fishing requirements home and abroad
AVID carpers
Available in: AVzL/10BY Zig Lites 10mm Black/Yellow AVzL/10BO Zig Lites 10mm Black/Orange AVzL/10BW Zig Lites 10mm Black/White AVzL/10BG Zig Lites 10mm Black/Green AVzL/12y Zig Lites 12mm Yellow AVzL/12O Zig Lites 12mm Orange AVzL/12w Zig Lites 12mm White AVZL/12b Zig Lites 12mm Black
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IN CHOD WE TRUST
the
chod explained ’s with team avidwoods mat
team avid
Avid’s media maestro Mat Woods reveals how you can tie the simplest and safest naked Chod rig ever. name Mat Woods age 27 uk pb 37lb 12oz occupation Media &
Marketing Co-ordinator
profile:
Mat has caught carp from just about every county in the UK. The former carp magazine editor has over a decade’s experience fishing busy day ticket waters, and loves fishing the types of venue that anybody can go and fish. He’s a short session expert and writes loads of features for carp magazines all over the globe. In fact, he’s a bit of a walking thesaurus!
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Check out avidcarp.com for all the latest news and updates
Become a top chodder
If you like using Chod rigs, you might want to try Avid HIGH LITE baits
Find out more about these incredibly buoyant hookbaits on page 14
The Chod rig is arguably the most popular modern carp rig around, and we at Avid recognise that you’re all big fans of this type of presentation. It’s why we’ve devised products like the mentally buoyant HIGH LITES, and the awesome CHOD BEADS. The idea behind a Chod Rig is to make ejecting the hookbait really difficult for the carp, and I’m going to tell you about my favourite way of setting up this brilliantly effective arrangement. First off, you’re going to need a good Chod hook and the one you choose really is down to personal preference. I prefer a beaked point myself, as Choddies are really short in length and it gives me more confidence when playing fish. I also choose a hook with an out-turned eye. This isn’t essential, but it helps form the neat curve in the hooklink that seems so essential to this rig’s success.
My preference is to use CHOD BEADS directly onto my main line. The bottom part of the CHOD BEAD grips really tightly, so I can set the Chod rig itself a few feet from the DISTANCE LEAD I tend to use with this setup. A CHOD BUFFER neatens the presentation. The two part construction means the grippy, lower bead keeps everything in place, whilst the top barrel bead – which has a large bore through the middle – can still eject from the leader should I suffer a line breakage. It’s so easy to put together, which is why I love it so much. All you need to do then is cast the HIGH LITE to an area with a few fish about and you’ll catch loads, trust me! The HIGH LITES are
“My preference is to use CHOD BEADs directly onto my main line.“
Obviously, you need a stiff mono hooklink and there are quite a few bespoke materials out there for tying Choddies. I like the clear versions myself, and tend to keep the rig itself between 1 and 3 inches long. The curve is usually progressive and not too extreme, so I’m basically creating one big, curved hook. This is attached to a small RING SWIVEL, which can spin and rotate freely very easily thanks to the mega buoyant HIGH LITE hookbait, which is trying to pull everything upwards. Because they’re so buoyant, you can include some tungsten putty on the knot to stop it floating in mid-water!
so stupendously buoyant that we swear they’re actually scared of water. The great thing about them is they take flavours into their fluffy outer really well, but the middle of the HIGH LITE is a closed cell structure, so it will never lose any buoyancy. I like to fish a slack line with this setup because the hookbait almost becomes balanced, sinking under the weight of the line. When a carp sucks at the bait, the whole lot lifts and goes further into their mouth. Nailed! And that’s it, really. Simple, effective and most importantly – safe. All thanks to the brilliant design of the CHOD BEADS. Get on ‘em!
HOW Mat USEs chod beads...
1 These ingenious Chod Beads are prethreaded onto wires, so they can be threaded directly onto the main line for maximum grip, even on light lines.
4 The grippy part of the Chod Bead allows you to set the rig at any distance from the lead, whilst the larger part has a big bore through the centre for safety.
AVID carpers
2 Loop your main line through the end of one of the wire loops. No fuss, no baiting needles, no piercing beads through the side. Chod Beads are a total solution.
5 Before tying on your lead, thread on one of these new Chod Buffers. They’ll totally neaten your Chod Rig setups and will streamline the lead for casting.
Mat Woods
3 Thread the larger part of the Chod Bead onto the line, followed by your Chod Rig (on an Avid Ring Swivel) and then the smaller, grippy part of the Chod Bead.
6 I like to leave the swivel of the lead on to create this hinge. This stops the line kicking up from the lakebed, giving me the perfect Chod Rig setup. Get it on!
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terminal
tackle
The Avid Carp terminal tackle range is like nothing you’ve ever seen before. We’ve taken a long hard look at how carp anglers actually fish in the modern world. We’ve considered the problems you encounter both with the methods you use and the tackle you choose to fish with. Take our Thread and Go Tubing as a prime example of our attitude to providing innovative solutions. Despite the fact tubing has been used in carp fishing for decades, the same problems found all those years ago still exist today. It’s hard to thread and has a tendency to coil horribly in people’s tackle bags, rendering it virtually useless. We’ve solved the problem by pre-threading the tubing on wires, so all anglers have to do is fold their main line through the wire and thread it on. We’ve also taken a different slant with the packaging, so anglers know they’re getting perfectly straight tungsten tubing with every purchase. As leaders and leadcore continue to get banned at fisheries around the country, the need for this type of product is clear to see. Just like our Tube Gripper Inserts and Clips, which prevent another common problem when using rig tubing. With a standard setup, your tubing is never fixed into a
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tailrubber or clip so when you grab hold of it, it slides up the main line. Nightmare! Our Gripper systems provide a clasp that grabs hold of the tubing, preventing this problem.
the best camouflage colour we know. From all our underwater observations and tests, this algal green colour blends in perfectly 100% of the time.
There are other terminal tackle items with a real edge, from the speed-fishing friendly Flat Clip, which houses a Speed Link rather than a swivel, to our clever Chod beads, which will grip line, leadcore, fused leaders and tubing, enabling you to set the rig itself at any length from the lead in the safest way possible.
Just consider every underwater photograph you’ve ever seen. Is the water perfectly clear, or can you see an olive/brown haze? In testing, we tweaked and honed the colour and transparency of our products until we found something that blended in everywhere. On gravel, in weed or silt, the Avid terminal tackle range is a one-stop solution to rig camouflage.
All of these products have been finished in
Check out avidcarp.com for all the latest news and updates
Tie Choddies like a pro
Mat Woods reveals his favourite Chod rig setup
Turn to page 14 to read more about his approach
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CHOD BUFFERS Covers the lead on Chod and Helicopter rigs • Colour matched to blend in on all lakebeds • Compatible with size 8 swivels • Can also be used with Avid Speed Links
Perfect for covering the lead on your helicopter and Chod rigs. They are also useful as a buffer bead for a highly effective running rig. Can also be used for marker float setups.
Flying ChodBEAD The first bead designed for the flying Chod rig • Colour matched to blend in on all lakebeds • GRIP STOP bead to semi-fix your rig anywhere on the line • Ultra-safe rubber BEAD will pass over all leader knots
These rubber FLYING CHOD BEADS are an excellent way to setup the popular naked Chod rig or when using any Helicopter setup direct onto your main line. The two part construction includes a GRIP STOP and rubber BEAD, so it’s ultra safe.
Chod on a wire Perfect for fishing Chod rigs on your main line Chod Beads | Avid Carp | Code: AVA/10 • Top safety bead made for quick, safe release • Soft rubber compound for ultimate grip • Slot built into rubber for securing the rig with PVA tape or string • Grips main lines, leadcore, fused leaders and rig tubing • Compatible with all ring swivels
The Chod Rig is one of the most popular presentations in use today. We’ve invented a bead that allows anglers to use this setup on lead core or directly on their main line. It’s safe, easy to use and very inconspicuous on the lakebed.
Shoes loves the Chod Bead when fishing Chod rigs ‘naked’ on his main line. Try it with a fluorocarbon main line or leader for the very best presentation in gin clear water or over weed.
AVID carpers
To help thread them on they come supplied on wires. The beads are now the right way around to be threaded straight onto your main line. They will grip even low diameter lines due to the new rubber material we’ve sourced. In short, they’re the Chod Bead you’ve all been waiting for!
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END GAME
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RING SWIVELS
• Low-glare anti-spook finish • Compatible with Avid Carp Chod Beads • Available in size 8 and 11.
Give your rigs maximum movement. We’ve sourced the strongest, low-glare swivels for a secure connection. Great for Chod rigs and Helicopter presentations.
Swivels
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Weighted Flying Chodbead Pin down your flying Chod rigs • GRIP STOP bead to semi-fix your rig anywhere on the line • Ultra-safe WEIGHTED BEAD will pass over all leader knots • Colour matched to blend in on all lakebeds
These weighted FLYING CHOD BEADS are an excellent way to setup the popular naked Chod rig or when using any Helicopter setup direct onto your main line. The two part construction includes a GRIP STOP and WEIGHTED BEAD, so it’s ultra safe.
We have sourced the strongest, low-glare swivels that fit with just about everything in the Avid Carp terminal tackle range. AVA/12
Swivel Size 8
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CLIP-PEGS
STOPPER BEADS Versatile, tightly gripping beads
• Colour matched to blend in on all lakebeds • Compatible with Avid Carp lead clip systems • Fits neatly in your tackle box
• Super soft material for added safety when using leader knots • 6mm in diameter to suit Avid Carp Ring Swivels • Colour matched to blend in on all lakebeds • Small bore hole for added grip on lines and leadcore
CLIP-PEGS are spare pins that fit the Avid Carp FLATCLIPS, TUBE GRIPPERCLIPS and ZIGCLIPS. Just in case you lose a few!
STOPPER BEADS are ideal for Helicopter rigs, running rigs and shocker rigs. The tiny bore through the centre means they grip heavy line and leadcore brilliantly, but the soft material means they are still extremely safe.
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Check out avidcarp.com for all the latest news and updates
On the bank luxury
Check out the Restbite and Restbite X bedchairs
Head to page 50 for details on these sensational beds
Tail Rubber Designed to be used in conjunction with a number of products in the terminal tackle range, like our leadclips and in-line leads. The soft rubber tails will neaten and streamline your setup.
flat clips The first lead clip to take a Speed Link
AVA/04 Short AVA/05 Long
Lead clip designed for use with quickchange SPEEDLINKS to make rig changes faster than ever before. By using loop knots at the end of your rigs, you can swap hooklengths easily and effectively. AVA/02
Flat Clip
g comin
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Inline inserts Designed to work with the Avid Carp lead range. AVA/06 Short AVA/07 Long
ZIG CLIPS
pva Links
Lead clips that don’t need a tailrubber
Prevents losing leads on the cast
• Unique PVA tape retaining tag • Perfect for Zig rig fishing and long range casting • Compatible with size 8 swivels • Colour matched to blend in on all lakebeds
• Low-glare anti-spook finish • Creates a totally antitangle system • Perfect for use with all mesh PVA • Can be clipped anywhere
Possibly the safest leadclips on the market. A unique plastic tag system on the barrel means you can whip PVA tape around the clip and merely pinch it under the tag to secure it. This means you can use the clip without a tailrubber when required, perfect for Zig fishing or fishing in heavy weed.
PVA LINKS are an ingenious new product that allows you to fish with mesh PVA bags in a totally new way. Simply clip the PVA LINK onto your lead or hooklink swivel, then slide the knot of the PVA mesh into the groove. This avoids tangles and losing leads on the cast.
AVA/16
AVA/11
Zig Clips
AVID carpers
PVA Link
Speed Link Specially designed for use in conjunction with the Avid Carp FLATCLIP, enabling anglers to change rigs quickly and effectively. AVA/14 Speed Link Micro AVA/13 Speed Link Medium
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IN-LINE RUN BEADS g comin
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For safe in-line lead running rigs • Colour matched to blend in on all lakebeds • Fits neatly and safely inside Avid Carp In-Line leads • Complete with Avid Carp Speed Links
Designed so you can use a running in-line lead in conjunction with quick-change Speed Links to make rig changes faster than ever. By using loop knots at the end of your rigs, you can swap hooklengths easily and effectively.
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Marker Elastic
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Fish with more accuracy • Available in fluorescent green and orange • Fits neatly in your tackle box • Grips line like no other elastic
A bespoke, slimline elastic designed specifically for marking your line. This way, you can fish to your spots accurately every time.
Time to wake-up to dropping off? Drop Off Stem | Avid Carp | Code: AVA/09 • Colour matched to blend into lakebeds • Metal Ring is trapped within the purpose designed insert stem to make things easier for anglers
The DROP-OFF STEM is a purpose made item that when used with an Avid Groove Lead produces the perfect dropoff setup. Drop-Off in-line setups are a popular but technical method of attaching the lead when fishing in weedy lakes. Attach both leader/main line to the same ring as your hooklink then insert into the Avid In-line Groove lead long or short insert. Once a take occurs the stem will easily come free from the insert allowing the lead to drop away from the tail rubber ensuring you stay in contact with the fish and not risking the lead getting caught in the weed.
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Check out avidcarp.com for all the latest news and updates
The tubing maestro
Jon Finch has been using the ingenious Thread & Go Tubing for his fishing recently
Discover more about how he uses this brilliant product on page 22
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TUBE GRIPPER
IN-LINE INSERTS Holds tubing in place • Colour matched to blend in on all lakebeds • Grips Avid Carp Thread & Go Tungsten Tubing • Designed for use with Avid Carp in-line leads • Compatible with size 8 swivels
Designed to prevent common problems when using sinking rig tubing. The INSERT grips the tubing when used inside an in-line lead, preventing it from pulling out and sliding up the line.
“no more looking like a lemon trying to thread tubing onto your main line. - Avid have done it for you “
Jon Finch
Thread and Go!
TUBE GRIPPER CLips
Holds tubing in place Tube Gripper Clips | Avid Carp | AVA/03
Thread and Go tubing has been specially designed to help you become a more efficient angler. Never before has threading anti-tangle tube been so easy. Each Tungsten Tube has been pre threaded with wires enabling them to be threaded up your line easier than before. No more time consuming threading. Just Thread and Go!
• Colour matched to blend in on all lakebeds • Grips Avid Carp Thread & Go Tungsten Tubing • Compatible with size 8 swivels
AVTG/TTSB Thread and Go! Silty Black AVTG/TTcb Thread and Go! Choddy Brown AVTG/TTwg Thread and Go! Weedy Green
A totally new style of leadclip that avoids common problems when using sinking rig tubing. The TUBE GRIPPER CLIP grips the tubing when closed, preventing it from pulling out and sliding up the line.
Weedy Green 50cm x 3
AVID carpers
Silty Black 50cm x 3
Choddy Brown 50cm x 3
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TUBING TACTICS team avid
name Jon Finch age 29 uk pb 45lb 9oz occupation Tackle-shop
owner
profile:
‘Finchy’ is a former British Carp Angling Champion and renowned as an expert floater fisherman and solid PVA bag maestro. He’s a mobile angler and a rig perfectionist, which makes him an integral part of the Avid development team. He currently runs Bankside Tackle shop in Gloucestershire, so he knows a thing or two about carp tackle. Whether he’s chasing scaly beasts at day ticket waters in the UK or trying to smash his personal best overseas, he’s consistently catching big fish.
Tubing Tactics ’s with team avid jon Finch
Read on and discover how Jon Finch creates the safest and most user-friendly rig arrangements you’ve ever seen 22
Check out avidcarp.com for all the latest news and updates
Take the tube
On fisheries that ban leadcore, tubing is the perfect alternative to stay within the rules
Discover more about Avid Carp terminal tackle products, see pages 16-21
“Honestly, this is the best tubing I’ve ever used and the fact it’s pre-threaded is just a bonus.“
Tubing. For many, it’s a necessary evil because so many waters ban leadcore and leaders. For me, it’s a great way to set up a really safe carp rig, which is why I’m going to show you the way I fish with it to make the most of this awesome material. At Avid, we’ve developed some ingenious new systems that remove all the old problems that used to be associated with anti-tangle tubing. For starters, you’ll never need to sit there looking like a lemon trying to thread tungsten tubing onto your main line. In fact, we’ve done that for you with the brilliant THREAD & GO TUBING, which is pre-threaded on wires. Simply remove the little stopper, put your main line through the loop in the wire, and thread the tubing up your line! When ‘Shoes’ first showed me this simple idea I was blown away, it removed a problem which has hassled carp anglers for years. It comes in three different colours and is the most supple and heavy tubing we could get our hands on. Honestly, this is the best
tubing I’ve ever used and the fact that it’s pre-threaded is just a bonus. It’s not mega thick, it has no memory, and it nails itself to the lakebed. It will follow the contours of the lakebed, it’s a matt finish and it’s also really abrasion resistant. What’s more, there’s a Choddy Brown, a Silty Black and a Weedy Green, so no matter where you’re fishing, there’s something to blend in to the lakebed. The diameter of the tubing isn’t mega thick like some heavy tubing’s and the colours are fantastic – none are really dark. The tubing is tough enough to withstand abrasive objects like snags or weed, making it a great choice on small venues that tend to have a lot more overhanging trees, or gravel pits where the bars can rub against your line whilst playing fish.
TIP It’s important to match the colour of your tubing to the lakebed you’re fishing over. THREAD & GO is available in Weedy Green for weedy venues, Silty Black for silty venues, and Choddy Brown for lakes with clay, gravel or lightly silted areas.
HOW finchy USEs tubing...
1 Avid Carp Tube Gripper Clips are a two part construction. You’ll need to team it with one of the two sizes of Tailrubbers, short or long. The longer version is great for longer casts, reducing tangles.
4 The internal gripping chamber locks into position inside the Tube Gripper Clip. This locks the swivel in place, as grips the tubing inside the Clip, preventing it slipping out and up your main line.
AVID carpers
2 Here you can see the outer element of the Tube Gripper Clip, along with the internal ‘gripping’ chamber. Finchy likes the shorter Tailrubber because he fishes venues with clear water all the time.
5 The locking pin secures everything into position and neatens the entire setup. This means the swivel is semi-fixed inside, so the rig is safe and the lead can eject more easily when snagged.
3 Tie an Avid Carp Ring Swivel on the end of your main line and thread your Thread & Go tubing through the Tube Gripper Clip, as shown. Line up in the internal gripping chamber like this.
6 All that remains now is to thread on your favourite lead from the Avid Carp range (see page 26) and tie on your rig. Both Thread & Go tubing and Tube Gripper Clips have made the setup simple.
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TAKE THE TUBE HOW Finchy uses Tubing...
1 Thread & Go Tubing comes in a straight length of 50cm. I think this is the perfect length for creating an antitangle setup that won’t spook carp.
4 Slide your main line through the wire loop at the end and start slowly threading your main line through the middle of the Tungsten tubing.
7 The internal diameter of the In-Line Tube Gripper Insert is formed so the Thread & Go Tubing will pass though the middle easily. Thread it on as shown.
10 At the business end, I have been using these awesome new Avid Carp Maggot Stops. I use them with a barrel-shaped boilie on a short braided hooklink.
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2 Begin by removing the small pip at the bottom of a length of tubing. This small rubber stopper just prevents the tubing coming off the wire in the packet.
5 Your main line should pass through without any problems. Instantly threaded tubing! Much better than sitting there doing it bit by bit.
8 The gripping chamber will trap both the swivel and tubing in position. Use a size 8 Ring Swivel for the best results, but a standard size 8 swivel also works.
11 Because I prefer braided hooklinks, I use a five-turn Grinner Knot at the Ring Swivel, going twice through the eye of the Swivel for extra knot strength.
3 At the other end of the tubing is a small gripping point. It’s important to keep a good firm hold of this whilst threading your tubing onto your main line.
6 So I can use an in-line lead, I use one of these new In-Line Tube Gripper Inserts. They have a grippy chamber to clamp the tubing in place.
9 The in-line lead itself will actually hold the Tube Gripper Insert shut. This means the tubing now won’t slide up the main line. Another annoying problem sorted!
12 The finished setup has caught me and the lads absolutely loads of carp all over the world. Give it a try the next time you go fishing, I’m sure it will bag a few! Check out avidcarp.com for all the latest news and updates
The shape of things to come
All our terminal tackle products are designed to be used with the Avid Carp lead range
To find out more about the innovative range of fishing leads and systems, see page 26 for details
“ No more grabbing the tubing and having it slip out of your end tackle components.“ ABOVE: T he all-new In-Line Tube Gripper Inserts mean your tubing won’t slide up the main line. Another Avid innovation that matters where it counts - out on the bank Of course, I tend to use this tubing with either the Avid TUBE GRIPPER CLIPS or IN-LINE TUBE GRIPPER INSERTS, so whether I’m using an in-line lead or leadclip setup, I can be sure the tubing isn’t going to come out and slide up the main line. This used to be an absolutely nightmare with tubing of old and as we’ve got this design registered with a patent pending, the only way you can efficiently fish with tubing is to use Avid end tackle components. I’m no mug, so I’ve already been harnessing this type of setup for ages. The unique way these products are designed means there are serrations inside which actually grip the tubing and clamp
AVID carpers
it in position. No more grabbing the tubing and having it slip out of your end tackle components – that is a problem of the past! Small wonder, then, that all these ingenious end tackle components are making their way into the tackle pouches of some of the best anglers in the business. I for one recommend these products to anglers all the time and it’s great to see safe rigs being used that are easy to set up and use. The whole setup is just so neat. The TUBE GRIPPER CLIP means I can effectively fish a leadclip style arrangement, whilst the INLINE TUBE GRIPPER INSERT means I can effectively fish an in-line lead. What more do you need?
If your venue has banned leaders and leadcore, or you just want to put the safety of the carp first, check out the Avid THREAD & GO TUBING and the associated end tackle components. They’re all innovative ideas that make life on the bank much easier, so harness their effectiveness in your own fishing. You’ll be delighted with how much easier it is to fish with tubing, and when your results go through the roof, you’ll be even happier!
Jon Finch
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LEADS
disappearing
When we sat down and discussed carp leads, there were a number of issues that existing leads simply did not take into account. We thought it was time for change. What was already available was either too shiny, or too bespoke. Traditional coatings have an inherent glare, whilst leads coated with tree bark, gravel and weed were too specific to be of use to every carp angler. We wanted to create a coating that would blend in 100% of the time, with colours based around endless underwater investigations. On the lakebed, we found that even in the clearest venues, the bottom is always very mottled. Even gravel humps and bars have a soft green haze, which is magnified further by sediment and algal matter in the water. We selected two of the colours that were most prevalent in the underwater environment, opting for a disruptive pattern effect, similar to that of army camouflage. In testing and viewing underwater the results were outstanding. No shiny swivels or brass loops, and no glare from the coating – the leads were almost completely indistinguishable from the lakebed itself. The next thing to consider was the durability of the leads. We want to make gear for every angler, from the guy who goes five nights a week, to those who go five times a year. For this reason, the leads are also double coated, so no matter whether your leads are getting cast out every day or are left rattling around in your holdall, they’ll still be perfect for use in the long term. Obviously, we’ve spent just as much time perfecting the shape of each lead. Once again, this was discussed with our team of angling consultants to find a selection of
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Avid Carp 2011
shapes and styles that suited modern carp fishing. For too long anglers have had to stick with a variety of shapes based around moulds that are decades old, but we wanted to design something that captured the needs and requirements of today’s carp fisherman. Something that took things a step forward. With the Bag Lead, Distance Lead, Flat Swivel, In-Line Groove and In-Line Safety Leads we believe we’ve cracked it. They are all camouflaged leads that aren’t just rebadged copies of what’s already available. All in all, there’s a hell of a lot of thought gone into our leads. So don’t put up with second best, check out the Avid Carp range in your nearest tackle shop now!
“ One of the common denominators that always stands out are the leads we use, but these new leads from AVID seem to solve the problem completely. They are the best ones I have ever seen for losing themselves in the background of the lake, especially in clear water.” Rob Hughes Below the surface, CARPology
avidcarp.com
The little things in life
Whilst our leads blend in, we want your hookbait to stand out
See our hookbait presentation aids on page 8
Designed to be cast longer distances
Great for use on sloped lakebeds
drop ‘em
Long Ranger
Get a grip
Back Leads | Lead
Distance Swivel | Lead | AVLDDS
Flat Swivel | Lead | AVLDFS
• Centre Heavy • Unique anti-loss clip design
• Aerodynamic • Anti Roll
• Centre Heavy • Anti Roll
Available in: 0.5oz/14g, 1oz/28g, 1.5oz/43g
Available in: AVLDDS/1.5 1.5oz/43g AVLDDS/2.5 2.5oz/71g AVLDDS/3.5 3.5oz/99g AVLDDS/4.5 4.5oz/128g AVLDDS/5.5 5.5oz/156g NEW AVLDDS/6.5 6.5oz/184g NEW
Available in: AVLDFS/1.5 1.5oz/43g AVLDFS/2.5 2.5oz/71g AVLDFS/3.5 3.5oz/99g AVLDFS/4.5 4.5oz/128g AVLDFS/5.5 5.5oz/184g NEW AVLDFS/6.5 6.5oz/184g NEW
Lead clip and lead - all in one
Ideal for Drop-off in-line setups
In the bag
play it safe
The drop-off
In-line Bag | Lead | AVLDIB
In-Line Safety | Lead | AVLDIS
In-Line Groove | Lead | AVLDIG
• Perfect for PVA bags • Anti Tangle
• Quick Change • Snag Release
• E xternal groove can be use for drop-off setups
Available in: AVLDIB/1.5 1.5oz/43g AVLDIB/2.5 2.5oz/71g AVLDIB/3.5 3.5oz/99g AVLDIB/4.5 4.5oz/128g AVLDIB/5.5 5.5oz/184g NEW AVLDIB/6.5 6.5oz/184g NEW
Available in: AVLDIS/1.5 1.5oz/43g AVLDIS/2.5 2.5oz/71g AVLDIS/3.5 3.5oz/99g AVLDIS/4.5 4.5oz/128g AVLDIS/5.5 5.5oz/184g NEW AVLDIS/6.5 6.5oz/184g NEW
Available in: AVLDIG/1.5 1.5oz/43g AVLDIG/2.5 2.5oz/71g AVLDIG/3.5 3.5oz/99g AVLDIG/4.5 4.5oz/128g AVLDIG/5.5 5.5oz/184g NEW AVLDIG/6.5 6.5oz/184g NEW
g comin
soon
Perfect for solid PVA bag fishing
AVID carpers
27
SAFETY FIRST
Pg Ohin Ryt Dver
e team avid
ige rN u e gle yo lin an ws f ining sho -of sed u ink s op Th lliam t dr ever Wi bes e’s the tup h
se
name Nigel Williams age 35 uk pb 37lb occupation Self-employed profile:
Nige
with Willi ams
Nige is an out-and-out big fish hunter and has succeeded on numerous low stock venues around the UK. He’s a creative angler and a long range casting expert, who’s full of innovative ideas and solutions. He famously bagged a 70lb carp for the cameras on the first Avid ‘In Session’ DVD and is developing a bit of a track record for catching 30s from day ticket waters.
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Check out avidcarp.com for all the latest news and updates
Bags to riches
If you’ve a huge fan of solid PVA bags, you’ll love the Avid Carp Bag Loader Kit
Read about this great product and the brilliant Transfer range of PVA from page 34
Carp fishing is changing all the time and if you want to stay one step ahead of other anglers and make every bite count then you’re sure to have used a drop-off lead at some point in your fishing. It’s changed from an underground tactic that very few people knew about to something much more mainstream, but if you use the wrong components it’s easy to create a rig that’s actually very unsafe.
I’m passionate about protecting the future of our sport and rig safety is high on my agenda. It’s why I bounced some ideas around with Jon ‘Shoes’ Jones, who’s in charge of product development at Avid. One of these was, of course, the IN-LINE GROOVE LEAD, which allows you wrap the leader around the lead without it ever getting damaged. Previously, this ‘aroundthe-outside’ system left the leader exposed to getting bashed against the lakebed on the cast, but the IN-LINE GROOVE LEAD removes this possibility and even enables you to fish a drop-off lead with straight main line or fluorocarbon. The second idea we discussed was what is now known and sold as the DROP-OFF STEM. Before this was designed, anglers were using swivels they’d altered with pliers and it generally made it possible to create a fixed lead by accident. Other anglers who were showing the setup in magazines were using standard swivels, so the lead was essentially fixed to the main line making it very unsafe.
With the DROP-OFF STEM, it’s the FIRST item of terminal tackle designed to be used with a drop-off in-line lead. Obviously, in conjunction with the IN-LINE GROOVE LEAD, you have the perfect, bespoke setup for this type of presentation. All you need to do is tie your main line or leader to the same forged ring in the DROP-OFF STEM that you tie your rig too. The DROP-OFF STEM goes inside the inline lead, whilst the leader goes around the lead in the dedicated groove. The INSERT of the lead is then semi-fixed against the leader by a TAIL RUBBER. When a fish pulls against the rig, the DROP-OFF STEM comes out of the lead, allowing it to drop from the line. This leaves you in direct contact with the fish. This setup is best used in weedy or snaggy situations, and will help you put more fish on the bank. Without a lead in the way, it’s a lot easier to get carp to the net. So give it a whirl. For this type of fishing scenario, it’s absolutely ideal.
Nige Williams
HOW Nige USEs the drop off stem...
1 The not-so-humble Drop Off Stem is designed especially for in-line lead setups that are designed to drop the lead when a fish gets hooked.
4 A length of leadcore is spliced onto the ring of the Drop Off Stem and the leadcore is then sat neatly into the groove of the In-Line Groove lead.
AVID carpers
2 The In-Line Groove Lead (see page 26) is a bespoke lead for the popular drop-off in-line lead setup. The groove houses your leader or main line safely.
5 One of the super soft Avid Carp Tailrubbers is threaded onto the leadcore. This is what will hold everything in position neatly.
3 Note how the Drop Off Stem fits neatly inside the lead. The ring on the outside is where you need to attach both your rig and your leader or main line.
6 The Tailrubber fits over the end of the lead’s plastic insert, keeping the leadcore flush. It’s safe, and can be cast out without the lead coming off.
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the transfer market
time to RELOAD transfer PVA Bag Loading Kits. Solid PVA Bagging has never been so easy. 30
Check out avidcarp.com for all the latest news and updates
Feed floaters with ease
Heard or read about the new Avid Carp Surface Spod?
Page 37 is where you need to look for the lowdown on this ingenious product
Solid PVA bag fishing is without doubt one of the most effective ways to catch carp. Underwater observations have already proven that it’s probably THE best way to disguise your end tackle, and with short hooklinks and in-line leads growing in popularity by the day, it’s definitely the ultimate method for pressured carp. So as you’ve come to expect from Avid Carp, we’ve been problem solving again. Not only have we designed a designated Bag Loader to help make solid PVA bag fishing easier, but we’ve also spent 12 months perfecting the Transfer range of solid bags and PVA tape.
Transfer PVA Bags – developed exclusively for Avid. Ultra tough film and welds. Yet maintaining the optimum dissolve rate.
We tested dozens of PVA bags and kept tweaking them until we found a bag that would leave absolutely no residue, regardless of the conditions. In fact, we tested the breakdown of the Transfer PVA in the coldest water you can expect to encounter in the UK, and the warmest. In all instances, the PVA simply vanishes in under five minutes, which is exactly what we were looking for. The bags are also extremely durable, so they won’t burst on impact with the lake surface. This is essential for long-range casting and summer fishing. You’ll notice on the Transfer bags that the bags are seamsealed along the sides, not along the base. We’ve had them double-sealed for ultimate security, and the base has no weak point. We’ve answered the prayers of the best solid PVA bag anglers in the business, which is testament to our relentless field-testing procedures.
We’ve consulted with two of the best solid bag fisherman in the UK in Jon Finch and Mark Bartlett, to ensure everything in our PVA range is absolutely perfect, including the Loader itself. This flexible tube of plastic slots in and out of solid PVA bags easily, enabling you to simply scoop the bait inside. The Loaders come in kits with our superior-quality Transfer PVA bags and tape, which will transform the way you think about PVA.
The Avid Carp PVA range provides you with everything you need to start solid PVA bag fishing. So what are you waiting for? It’s time to start bagging!
Transfer bag Loading kit
Transfer PVA Tape
• 20 Transfer SOLID PVA BAGS • 10m Transfer PVA tape • Avid Bag Loader • Available in two sizes
• PVA Dissolves after only a few minutes. • Leaves no residue. • 20m Length • 10mm Width
The perfect PVA kit: It has all you need to make the very best PVA solid bags: An Avid Bag Loader, 20 Transfer PVA Bags, and 10 metres of Transfer PVA Tape.
The perfect partner for Avid Carp Transfer PVA Bags. Made from the same high quality PVA as the Transfer PVA bags, the tape has been designed to dissolve at the same rate, leaving no residue so as not to spook any wary fish, and helps the angler produce the perfect bait presentation.
There’s a choice of two sizes, large and small, these kits have it all. Available in: AVTBLK/S PVA Bag Loading Kit Small AVTBLK/L PVA Bag Loading Kit Large
AVTSPT
comin
soong
Spare Transfer PVA Tape
Transfer bags • Range of sizes • Fast dissolving PVA
Made from the very best PVA film to withstand the strongest of casts. Range of sizes: 60x120mm, 60x170mm, 80x120mm and 80x170mm Available in: AVTSPB/05 Solid PVA Bag Size 5 AVTSPB/06 Solid PVA Bag Size 6 AVTSPB/07 Solid PVA Bag Size 7 AVTSPB/08 Solid PVA Bag Size 8
AVID carpers
31
GET BAGGING
team avid
name Mark Bartlett age 28 uk pb 39lb 8oz occupation Fishery owner profile:
Mark is probably the best up and coming star in the carp game, having caught big carp from just about every difficult day ticket venue you can think of and every country you can think of. He can cast for miles, and has a frightening natural ability to catch lots and lots of carp. Bart is a renowned solid PVA bag and Zig expert and only goes fishing if he knows he can smash ‘em up! Perfect, then, to ask about getting more bites!
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Time to
bag
up
’s with team avid mark bartlett
Carp botherer Mark Bartlett shows you how to make solid PVA bag fishing easier than ever before... Check out avidcarp.com for all the latest news and updates
Viva la revolution
If, like Mark, you like to put a lot of bait in, check out the new Avid Carp spods
The innovative Air Range and Surface Spod can be seen on pages 36-39
“The result is the toughest, most soluble pva i’ve ever used. and believe me, i’ve used the lot.“ It’s hardly a secret that I use solid PVA bags for most of my fishing. I absolutely love ‘em! I think the benefits of this presentation far outweigh any of the negatives, and as Avid have pretty much solved every problem associated with the tactic, there’s never been a better time to make the most of this setup.
The TRANSFER PVA itself is just epic. No word of a lie, we looked at dozens of different types of PVA film before we found the right one, and then we had to tweak the breakdown rate so it wasn’t going to leave a mess around the hookbait. The result is the toughest, most soluble PVA I’ve ever used. And believe me, I’ve used the lot.
It began when we sat down and discussed lead shapes for the first time. The BAG LEAD was something I wanted for my range fishing with bags. Because the lead is the same shape as the bag, it spreads the weight more evenly in the finished solid bag, so it casts a lot better. It’s also got a low profile and sits neatly on the lakebed, so it doesn’t spook fish like a big square lead.
The bags are so strong, but they’re strong where it counts. The seams are all double welded, so the bag will never burst whilst it’s being loaded up. The number of times other bags have split open and spilt a load of pellets in my bivvy is ridiculous, but with the TRANSFER bags you can really compact them without worrying about this problem.
I usually use a leader of some variety to use when solid bagging. I always tie up short, 12 inch leadcore leaders so I can have dozens of solid bags with rigs inside pre-tied. It suits my speed fishing.
They don’t stick together either, which used to be a real bugbear of mine. A TRANSFER bag can be opened without a baiting needle, unlike other brands. That’s just another reason why they’re the best.
Solid PVA bags enable you to present an ultra-short hooklink with a small package of bait wherever you’re casting. They’re great for all kinds of fishing, and a superior alternative to standard mesh PVA presentations.
AVID carpers
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GET BAGGING HOW Mark loads transfer bags...
1 The Transfer Solid PVA Bag Loading Kit comes complete with everything you need. A Bag Loader, 20 Transfer PVA bags and some matching PVA tape.
4 This retention slot at the top of the Bag Loader holds my leader in place so the lead doesn’t keep falling to the bottom of the solid bag. It makes a difference!
7 Only fill the bag between halfway and two thirds full. You will need some excess PVA at the top of the bag so you can tie it shut and secure it.
10 Trim the bag so there’s just a few millimetres of excess. This acts as a good buffer for the knot, so the lead cannot burst from the bag on the cast.
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2 Before loading your solid bag, make sure your rig and lead are totally dry. It’s a good idea to remove any dampness by dipping the whole lot into groundbait.
5 I nick my hook through the bottom of the solid bag to keep the hookbait exactly where I want it. The lead needs to sit around halfway down the bag.
8 Using your Transfer PVA tape, wrap around the bag to tie the bag contents tightly inside. Once you’ve done a couple of wraps, secure with Granny Knots.
11 Pinch the corners of the PVA bag and lick and stick them to the side of the bag. This tapers the bag, making it tighter and therefore more aerodynamic.
3 Squeeze the Bag Loader shut to slide it inside the Transfer solid PVA bag. This will hold the bag open for you, to make loading the bag much easier.
6 The Bag Loader makes adding bait contents so easy. You can either pour in your bait mix, or simply scoop it in like this. Small pellets are my preference.
9 Carefully trim off any excess PVA using a good pair of scissors. This will make the finished bag really streamlined and speed up the PVA breakdown time.
12 The finished setup has caught me and the lads absolutely thousands of carp all over the world. Give solid PVA bagging a try. There’s no excuse not to anymore! Check out avidcarp.com for all the latest news and updates
Fish in style
If you would like to be an Avid Carper, you’ll want some of our stylish new clothing
Check out the full range of hoodies and hats on page 62 of this catalogue
“I like to present just a small package of feed “ My favourite sizes are the smaller varieties, because I like to present just a small package of feed around the hookbait. Because of this, the job of loading a small bag has had to be something I’ve perfected over time. These days, I don’t even need to worry about it, because ‘Shoes’ and fellow solid bag whizz Jon Finch came up with the BAG LOADING KIT. The Bag Loaders themselves are a curved, flexible piece of tube that you squeeze into the bag. It then springs open, holding the bag open. You can then start loading the bag. No fiddling trying to keep the top open with two fingers and taking half hour to load it up with micro pellets, you can literally even just scoop the bait in if you like. You just grip the bag and Bag Loader and scoop away! Better yet, there’s a line holder on the Loaders so you can keep your lead out of the way. I tend to load the hookbait in first, followed by some pellets, then the lead. This coils the hooklength, so it’s sat there like a coiled spring on the bottom when the bag breaks down. Once I’m all loaded up, it’s just a case of tying off the bag with TRANSFER PVA TAPE, which is made to the same high standards as the solid bags. Like I mentioned earlier, because of the little leaders I can have dozens of solid bag setups tied up, filled up and ready to cast out. It’s just a case of tying a new one on the main line when I want to re-cast. And because the BAG LOADING KIT makes life so much easier, I’m never sat there without a rod in the water missing bite opportunities.
Yet another carp bagged on my solid PVA bag setup. I usually choose small hookbaits with Sight Stops for this style of fishing, as the fleck of colour gets you quicker bites and more of them!
AVID carpers
So whether you’re new to solid bagging or you’ve always been a fan of the tactic, you’re sure to take things to the next level in your fishing with these Avid Carp products. I have, and so should you. Good luck!
Mark Bartlett
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VIVA LA REVOLUTION
Engineered to offer the easiest to use spods ever designed, the Air Range spods are a quantum leap forward in spod design. Large fins increase flight stability, whilst the shape guarantees long and straight casts
36
Check out avidcarp.com for all the latest news and updates
Keep cool and carry on
Spod mixes are better when your bait is fresh
Use an Avid Carp Cool Store for maximum temperature protection, see page 54
The Avid Carp AirRange spods are the result of over 18 months development work. Like with all Avid Carp tackle, we had a concept. Our unique means of attaching the spod to the main line means anglers can scoop up bait without the problems of mono tails getting stuck in the spod mix – a problem that has plagued anglers since the inception of the spod. This flexible arm also makes retrieval of the spod more angler-friendly, creating very little disturbance on the surface and a much easier line pick-up. The arm simply hinges upwards, taking the top half of the spod with it preventing unwanted drag through the water. Since our idea was first spawned, we have refined the aerodynamics, hole structure and materials to create the ultimate range of spods for carp fishing. You’ll note the extended fins on the side of the spod, which almost gives it a space shuttle style appearance. These totally stabilize the spod for its initial ascent through the air, preventing all in-flight wobble. They’re available in two versions – one with holes for general spodding work, and a solid version for use with maggots, liquids and sloppy spod mixes. Half the anglers we see out on the bank nowadays are taping up their spods, so it made sense for us to provide a bespoke spod for this purpose.
The really interesting spod, of course, is the Avid Surface Spod, which is designed so anglers can deposit floating baits at ranges never obtained before. No more trying to use a normal spod full of mixers and wobbling it to create unnecessary disturbance on the surface, we’ve created a purpose-built spod with some total revolutionary features. The inner roll-a-ball is buoyant, whilst the nose is slightly weighted. This means that upon impact with water, the nose will point downwards, allowing the ball to float up the arms of the spod, releasing all the mixers. You get no spillage on the cast and it lands with a nice quiet splash, so surface fishing can now be achieved at totally new distances. Some of the big hits achieved by our anglers using this spod in conjunction with Zigs fished over-depth is nothing short of remarkable, and it’s a tactic we’re sure will be put into good use at many, many venues this summer. We’ve spent endless hours testing these spods, putting our theories to the test. We know that thousands of carp anglers are going to do the same. We think it might be in your interests to follow suit!
REVOLUTION Surface feeder Surface Spod | Code: AVS/SS • Mult-range • Designed for floating baits • No strings, tangle-free design • Weighted nose for straighter, truer casts • Mega buoyant inner ball slides within the inner chamber to promote release of floating baits
The Surface Spod casts just like a normal spod. The weight is in the nose, however, so it lands the opposite way up in the water to a traditional spod.
AVID carpers
comin
soong
The buoyant ball, which rolls freely inside the spod, will then rise to the top, releasing your floating baits easily. The Surface Spod then empties itself, there’s no need to pull the line, giving you perfect surface bait presentation at any range you like.
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VIVA LA REVOLUTION
coming
soon
Slop dropper
top of the spods
Solid/Medium | Avid Carp | AVARS/SM
Particle/Medium | Avid Carp | AVARS/PM
• Hinge arm system • Easy loading • Large fins • Mega buoyant nose cone • Super strong construction • Aerodynamic shape
• Hinge arm system • Easy loading • Large fins • Mega buoyant nose cone • Super strong construction • Aerodynamic shape
Ideal for liquid mixes, small particles, maggots and sloppy groundbait, the Air Range solid spod flies out brilliantly and deposits fluid baits with ease. Especially effective when spodding over Zigs with a soupy mix.
The ideal multi-use spod, this is the Air Range offering we’re most proud of. Designed to suit all baits, this particular spod is sure to find its way on the end of most carp anglers’ spod rods .
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Check out avidcarp.com for all the latest news and updates
Barrow brilliance
Prefer a Barrow Bag to a standard carryall?
You’ve got to see our Transit Barrow Bag then! See page 53
Shoes with a winte
r carp caught durin
g the testing stages of the Air Ra nge Spods.
stealth bomber
mini scud
Solid/Small | Avid Carp | AVARS/SS
Particle/Small | Avid Carp | AVARS/PS
• Hinge arm system • Easy loading • Large fins • Mega buoyant nose cone • Super strong construction • Aerodynamic shape
• Hinge arm system • Easy loading • Large fins • Mega buoyant nose cone • Super strong construction • Aerodynamic shape
Ideal for liquid mixes, small particles, maggots and sloppy groundbait, this mini solid spod flies out brilliantly and deposits fluid baits with ease. Especially effective when spodding over Zigs with a soupy mix.
This stealthy spod is ideal for smaller lakes or when trying to keep disturbance to a minimum. Members of the Avid crew have also been using this spod for the popular Spodicopter method. Well worth a look.
AVID carpers
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SPOD THINKING team avid
name Jon Jones age 41 uk pb 36lb occupation Avid Gaffer profile:
Shoes is one of the carp industry’s most revered product designers. With numerous innovations to his name, he’s the reason why Avid Carp tackle is as clever and as forward-thinking as it can be. He’s got decades of carp fishing
3d
experience and is recognized as one of carp fishing’s most inventive minds.
carpinG Product design genius and creative angler Jon Jones looks at how you can catch more carp this year by putting more bait in the right place
40
Check out avidcarp.com for all the latest news and updates
A place to call home
Shoes created and designed the Avid Carp HQ bivvy as the ultimate shelter
Check out the feature-packed HQ along with all our other brilliantly designed bivvies from page 46
As many of you will know, I was involved with the organisation of the British Carp Angling Championships for over a decade. During this period, I got to see the methods and tactics used by some of carp fishing’s elite and it taught me a lot about the best ways to catch lots and lots of carp.
Some of the more modern techniques would have blown our minds 20 years ago, but the fact is some of these more gung-ho methods win matches and are often the best way to get loads of bites. One of these methods, which simply cannot go unmentioned, is the tactic of spodding to keep carp in your swim. This tactic works all year around and when done with the right kit, you can really make it count. I’ve spent the last 18 months developing and perfecting the AIR RANGE spods, and I believe we’ve found the perfect mix of aerodynamics and usability. The unique hinge mechanism means you don’t have the problem of spod tails getting in the way during loading and flicking bait everywhere, whilst the shape and ultra-buoyant nose cone ensure a smooth flight and effortless retrieve. They come in two sizes, and are available with or without holes. This means you can now spod with accuracy, at range, without any of the usual associated fuss. They retrieve better than any other spod I’ve ever used, and are one of my favourite Avid products. Solid bodied spods were an obvious step for us, given the popularity of spodding soupier mixtures. People are taping up their
spods all the time, so why not do a solid spod that’s bespoke for the task? Especially if you’re an angler spodding over Zig rigs. Now Zigs are obviously very productive in their own right, fished in isolation. In fact, during the testing of our ZIG LITES, we found that a two-tone hookbait fished a few feet under the surface could result in some absolutely mind-blowing captures. If you can’t get your head around using Zigs in isolation, then spodding a soupy mixture to the area you’re fishing your Zigs can be a great way to drive carp wild. On heavier stocked lakes, creating a column of food in the water is a brilliant way to get shoals of carp competing aggressively for food items. With a couple of ZIG LITES bobbing around in this soup of food, bites are always quick to come by and boy do they keep on coming! In ZIG LITES the hookbait choice is made for you. Nothing else on the market is as buoyant or as effective, so get them on the end of your line and get an instant edge over other anglers. Your hook just needs to be a small, strong pattern and the hooklink itself only needs to be a decent 10lb breaking strain monofilament.
HOW Shoes ties Zig rigs...
1 I’ve designed a number of bespoke products for Zig Rig fishing, from the mega buoyant Zig Lites to the unique Zig Clips. They’re my first choice for Zigs.
4 ...I much prefer to use the special cleat on the top of the Zig Clip, which is designed so you can whip PVA tape around instead of using a Tailrubber.
AVID carpers
2 The Zig Clips are attached just like any other lead clip. It can be used with or without a Tailrubber. If I do use one, I use the longer type to prevent tangles.
5 Zig Lites are great hookbaits and you can use a barrel shape or a two-tone version. I think one of the little Maggot Stops just adds more visual attraction.
3 The Zig Clip is held in place with a retaining peg. As you can see, here I’m using a Tailrubber to hold the Swivel Distance lead in place, but in weed...
6 Job done. The PVA on the Zig Clip will hold the lead in place for casting but when you get a take, it will have melted, so the lead will eject immediately.
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SPOD THINKING TIP Each time you catch a fish from a baited area, make sure to top up the spot with your spod. Keeping the bait going in will keep the carp coming back for more, so after each fish, put around half a dozen spods of bait back out there to refresh the spot. This will help you catch numbers of fish, increasing your chances of catching one of the big girls!
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Check out avidcarp.com for all the latest news and updates
Keep your bait fresh
If you’re taking plenty of spod mix and bait ingredients, you’ll want to keep it all in top nick
Check out the superb Cool Store luggage on page 54 for your one stop solution to keeping your bait as fresh as possible
At the lead end is where things get interesting, because myself and the Avid team found that there was no leadclip on the market that was any good for Zig rigs. Ideally, you want the lead to eject on the take whilst Zig fishing because otherwise you suffer lots of hookpulls. It’s why I listened carefully to master Ziggers like Jon Finch, Ian Russell and Mark Bartlett to design the ZIG CLIP, which is the first lead clip with a special retaining tag for PVA tape. Traditionally, you’d have to butcher a leadclip to help eject the lead, which meant
you’d need to use PVA tape to secure the lead for the cast. With the ZIG CLIP, you can do this without having to tie any knots in the PVA itself. Simply whip some TRANSFER PVA TAPE around the barrel of the ZIG CLIP, pinch the tag end under the retaining cleat and snap it off. The lead is now secure for the cast, but can come straight off when you get a bite. You don’t even need a tailrubber! Of course, if you don’t want to lose the lead you can still use a tailrubber on the ZIG CLIP and it will be completely safe, so it’s
“start spodding and watch those bite alarms go into meltdown.“
a totally multi-purpose end tackle item in that respect. So with our ZIG LITES in the lake and our AIR RANGE spod at the ready, all that remains is to spod a nice sloppy mixture of bait. Groundbait, particles and pellets mixed with loads of water so it’s like runny porridge is what you need. All that remains is to start spodding and watch those bite alarms go into meltdown. Give it a try, I’m sure it will produce loads of carp for you this season.
Jon ‘Shoes’ Jones
The Solid versions of the Avid Carp AIR RANGE spods are perfect when using sloppy, soupy mixtures. This type of mix is ideal for spodding over Zigs, as it hangs mid-water. Try it!
AVID carpers
43
HOUSE RULES
44
Check out avidcarp.com for all the latest news and updates
Stay organised
Check out the Avid Transit luggage and how it fits around the bivvy
Flick to page 52 to find out more about this innovative luggage principle
get your house in
order
Being organised and efficient on the bank requires two things. Discipline, of course, and the right tackle. The team here at Avid are all very active, mobile anglers, but we also love our creature comforts, too. Which is why designing bivvies, luggage and bedchairs that could all work together in harmony was so important to us. There was no point having tackle that was awkward to use, but just looked the part. We wanted to take things beyond aesthetics, and looked at trying to achieve engineering excellence. Indeed, we have found favour with many anglers already who have recognised this theme; who have seen the tackle and realised that it's raised the bar.
condensation off, a rear vent that's accessible from the inside (unlike many other bivvies boasting such a feature) and the side tension bars are created to offer a resting place for marker and spod rods. We also changed the rib layout to differentiate the bivvy from others like it, which was designed to promote more space. And that space, of course, is useful.
Take the HQ bivvy. Here is not just a shelter, but a system. It has an internal skin that keeps
Restbite bedchairs are designed to offer maximum comfort. The memory foam mattress and flat
AVID carpers
For instance, you could use that extra room to get a luxurious, larger sized bedchair like the Restbite X inside your bivvy. Alternatively, you could use the extra room to get yourself organised with Transit luggage, which all fits under the bedchair and stacks up when not in use.
bed-style layout means you will never get a better night's sleep on the bank. Or be packed away so quickly, as the bed's ratchet has been moved so the bed can be packed away using some reinforced clips. It's all designed to make your life on the bank easier and more enjoyable.
Our luggage represents a quantum leap forward, because now you can free up so much more room in your bivvy. That in itself will make life on the bank more pleasant. Rather than struggling to get into your holdall and having to keep moving and twisting around, the Transit system simply slides under your feet and out of sight. You'll never fish as efficiently. So get your house in order. And enjoy the house that Avid built.
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AVID HEADQUARTERS
features
galore We truly believe the HQ bivvy is the most feature-packed shelter on the market today. Its permanent twin-skin technology make it a unique and innovative product, that’s quickly become one of the most desirable items on the market. It’s bivvy design on a new level. The HQ bivvy has been designed around the anglers needs. Built from the highest grade materials this new unique concept utilizes extra space with its separated frame system which provides a more stable bivvy along with a greater floor space providing room for the biggest of bedchairs such as the Restbite X.
46
Avid Carp 2011
The HQ comes with a clip-in inner wrap. This inner is fully breathable and removable eliminating all condensation.
groundsheets. Indeed, the HQ packs down reasonably small for a bivvy with such a healthy footprint.
The inner wrap is not attached to the groundsheet so it can be left in place when packed away so to not increase the bag size and mess caused by sewn-in
In short, it’s the bivvy that all other bivvies are now compared to. Check out all of those features and make up your own mind. We know you’ll see the light.
avidcarp.com
Bivvy care counts
Every HQ and HQ Euro bivvy comes with its own bivvy care guide
You can find out more about this at www.avidcarp.com
No More Mozzies Anti-mosquito windows come as standard on the HQ front panel
Drumskin Tension The extra side tension bars create a taut outer shell for the HQ
Shelter Transformation The HQ front panel can be completely zipped out when required
Premium Versatility The HQ front door can be adapted to suit the needs of the angler
Durable Outer Fabric The HQ features permanent twin-skin technology Reinforced Tension Bars Anodised black tension bars come as standard
Rapid Ventilation
Taped Seems
AVID carpers
Storm Proof
Another Avid First Zips to all vents are available to anglers inside the bivvy
Shelter
Insect Net
x2
2.6m
Double Skin
Height + Width
1.4m
1.3m x 30cm x 30cm Bag Size
2.4m
Rear Ventilation System A zipped panel is used to increase air circulation inside the HQ
Rod Retention System Our new side tension bars feature three rod straps for spare rods, marker rods and spod rods
2.6m
Foot Print
13kg Weight
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A GLOBAL HIT
With the outer-wrap, you get the industry’s first ever Triple Skin bivvy. The HQ Euro sets new standards for usability, functionality, and offers more coverage than any other bivvy out there.
The side doors on the HQ Euro feature full mosquito mesh, as does the removable front section. This is part of the bivvy’s porch area, which is a multi-functional space.
The inner tent provides the first layer of protection and creates a condensation free area, whilst the tent itself provides protection from the elements. The third skin boosts this coverage again.
Here is the HQ Euro ‘shell’, the tent itself. An inner wrap clips inside this to create a dedicated living space. Perfect for those longer sessions overseas when you want luxury.
the
magic number Size matters, and the HQ Euro shows up other long stay bivvies as mere pretenders to the thrown. THIS is the biggest, best and most feature packed bivvy on the market. With three front doors, three skins, rod retention bars and looks to kill, it leaves other bivvies in the shade. The HQ Euro is without doubt the ultimate in bivvy design and comfort. With its COLOSSAL size and shape, the Euro provides everything the modern carp angler
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requires. For the long stay European angler or the holiday angler, the HQ Euro will be your first choice. Triple Skin Technology is essential here. The HQ Euro is made from 210 denier, olive green nylon fabric. It also comes complete with a nylon overwrap and a clip-in inner sleeping compartment, giving this bivvy not one, not two, but three skins. This ensures you, the angler, are protected from all types of weather in the sort of comfort
that’s currently unrivalled. The HQ Euro’s re-inforced black ribs makes the Euro stand out on the bank, whilst the internal space provides total luxury. Meanwhile, the Inner Sleeping Compartment & Porch is designed so all the dirty items are kept separate from your dry items. The sleep compartment is ideally sized for two Restbite X bedchairs with room to spare. There’s nothing worse than a dirty inner groundsheet!
Check out avidcarp.com for all the latest news and updates
Angling heavyweights
Anglers visiting overseas waters will be pleased to know we now sell larger leads
See page 26 for details on the 5.5oz and 6.5oz leads from Avid Carp
The HQ Euro gives you the a unique Inner Compartment, Overwrap, Heavy Duty Groundsheet, Pegs, Tension Bars and Carry Bags. It’s the total package.
Three skins and arguably the most thought-out living space ever considered in a long session bivvy, the HQ Euro sets new standards in design. With the same stylish looks as the HQ bivvy, it’s the ultimate shelter for the long stay carper.
Never before have you seen a bivvy with side doors. These doors are also vents, which allow great airflow throughout the bivvy. Each door can also be used as exit and entrance points especially if the wind direction changes and you are forced to zip up the front. In addition to the new side doors, the porch area allows for tackle preparation or cooking to be done whilst being protected from the elements. Basically, we have
Two Bags
AVID carpers
In countries that do not allow sewn in groundsheets or for those who want even
Storm Proof
Triple Skin
4.6m
x3
1.1m x 30cm x 37cm Rapid Ventilation
created two bivvies you can use as one. The front can be completely removed allowing a greater view and by zipping up the side doors you creates a great looking summer porch area that will provide shade from the sun. The rear vent can also be adjusted from the inside, eliminating the need to venture outside the bivvy in bad weather.
Insect Net
2.8m
Foot Print
more space, the Overwrap provides an added accessory to help eliminate any condensation. The Overwrap is also made from 210 denier, olive green nylon fabric. It comes complete with side doors, rear vent and vented front. The wrap will add extra strength and an extra layer, thus completing the unique Triple Skin Technology construction. A clip in groundsheet completes the package.
+ Shelter
25kg Separate Compartments
Taped Seems
Weight
1.7m 2.8m Height + Width
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RE:TENSION
50
Check out avidcarp.com for all the latest news and updates
Bivvy Staycare organised counts
Check Everyout HQthe andAvid HQ Transit Euro bivvy luggage comes and with howitsitown fits around bivvy care the guide bivvy
Flick to page 52 You to find canout find more out about more about this innovative this at www.avidcarp.com luggage principle
RE:sist
no longer When we designed the awesome HQ bivvy, the Padded Rod Support Bars that added tension were a real talking point. We quickly realised that anglers has recognised the benefits of having somewhere to place their spod and marker rods, and also liked the idea of the increased stability the bars offered.
Now we know that a good idea rarely stays exclusive for very long, so keen to hammer home the point that these are yet another Avid Carp innovation, we’ve created some universal Padded Rod Support Bars to fit other pramhood style bivvies. So long as the pole diameters are 20mm or less, the RE:TENSION system can be incorporated into your bivvy setup, updating and improving your bivvy. No more problems with leaning rods against your bivvy, trees or in bushes. Just lean your rods against the RE:TENSION bar then secure with the velcro tabs.
Rod Retention Two Rod | Avid Carp | AVRPRSB • Two per pack • Drawstring carry bag • Fits poles of 20mm or less
The perfect addition to any standard bivvy, these tensioning bars are a great way to improve your existing shelter’s features. Based on the superb Padded Rod Support Bars on the HQ, the RE:TENSION system increases the stability of your bivvy, whilst providing a roost for your spod and marker rods. It's the product that transforms any bivvy into a more steadfast and improved shelter.
AVID carpers
These simple to use, adjustable bars simply clip between the two front ribs of your bivvy poles. This provides a secure rod support, extra stability and added tension. Two support bars are supplied per pack in a drawstring nylon carry bag. They’re light and very adaptable, too. The closed length is 58cm and the maximum practical useable length is around 100cm. So rather than suffering a wobbly bivvy and looking for a tree to chuck your spod and marker rod into, take the Avid approach and do things in a more sensible, modern way. RE:TENSION bars will give you some of the numerous benefits of the HQ bivvy, until you see the light, of course, and get yourself a HQ anyway.
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LATERAL THINKING
flat out
The Avid Carp Restbite beds are without doubt a new concept in bedchair design. Every single aspect has been carefully considered during development to produce something totally unique from all our competitors. You know you want one! Both the Restbite and Restbite X have Memory Foam Mattresses fitted as standard to provide the ultimate in comfort and quality. As far as we are aware, we are the first tackle company to harness Memory Foam Technology. You'll notice that we've changed the format slightly too. The idea was to create a totally flat surface to sleep on, like your bed at home. With the ratchet system on a standard bedchair, you always get a lift at the head end, which can lead to neck and back problems.
52
provided a 6ft 5ins and 6ft 11ins length frame, suitable for all but the very largest carp anglers, without needing excess canvas and excess weight. The Restbite X is the larger of the two chairs, providing extra width, height and length. So whether you want the ultimate in indulgence, or you just need the extra space, it’s the bedchair for you.
The Restbite and Restbite X have a new ratchet system, moved further up the bedchair, which has enabled us to create a totally flat, uniform surface.
The standard Restbite meanwhile is more a traditional size and has already found favour with mobile anglers who like how easy and quickly you can pack Avid Carp bedchairs away ready for moving swims. No other chair of this size is this comfortable, which is reason enough to buy one!
Older bedchairs had to be made with overhanging canvas because you couldn’t get them to lie laterally, which gave the appearance of more space to sleep on. With the Restbite bedchairs, we’ve
They are without doubt a quantum leap forward and the beds are sure to find favour with you, today's carp angler. We know you demand the very best from your kit, so forget the rest – get on a Restbite!
Check out avidcarp.com for all the latest news and updates
Make the transition
Like how the Transit luggage fits underneath the Restbite bedchairs?
See the full range of luggage on page 58-59
Two of the best
Restbite X | Avid Carp | Code: AVBCH/RBX Restbite | Avid Carp | Code: AVBCH/RB • Memory Foam Technology • Unique head rest layout • Lateral sleep system design • Rapid folding mechanism • Easy open security clips • Supreme levels of comfort • Folds completely flat • Better than your bed at home
rest easy
Memory Foam Technology ensures even weight distribution for more comfort.
sit up or lie down
We’ve moved the ratchet further up the bedchair so you can still tilt the head.
The Restbite beds are built using top quality materials to offer more comfort out on the bank. The innovative design is like no other bedchair on the market today.
mEmory
FOAM tEchnology
transit compatible
The Transit Luggage range all fits neatly around and under the Restbite chairs. It’s a total system, to help you get your house in order.
Sitting pretty? Super Low Chair | Avid Carp | Code: AV/trsl • Lightweight, compact guest chair. • Complements the rest of the Avid luggage range. • Complete with it’s own carry-bag. • Weighs just 2.8kg.
The Avid Transit SuperLow chair provides the ultimate guest chair for serious carp anglers. We’ve designed the SuperLow to be as lightweight and compact as possible, to avoid taking up precious space on the barrow and out on the bank.
AVID carpers
53
UNDER THE BED
down under When it comes to carp luggage development, there has been little to shout about for a good 20-30 years. Things have very much remained the same, bar the odd cross-over item from the specialist market. Here at Avid, we’ve not only listened to our consultants – but to you, the angling public – in a bid to take things forward.
54
Check out avidcarp.com for all the latest news and updates
Style to a tee
We will be selling t-shirts and hoodies this summer See what’s in store on pages 56-57
Whilst other companies provide bigger and stronger items of luggage more akin to a Safari trip than a fishing session, we’ve looked at the realities of today’s carp fishing. How does the gear stack up at home in the shed and garage? How does it fit into the car? How do you transport it via a barrow and where do you put it inside the bivvy?
Take the Transit 3 as a prime example of our thought process. This double compartment bag provides masses of protection for your gear, but can also be folded open to fit under your bedchair. Want to keep the Transit 3 either end of your bedchair? Simply unclip it into two separate bags and place them around your bivvy accordingly.
With all these questions, our consultants had found problems. Problems they’d put up with for years. The Avid Transit and Cool Store ranges are customized to avoid these problems, as bespoke items of carp fishing luggage – not just bags with a new badge.
The Transit 2 simply folds out and will no doubt become a number one favourite for anglers who like to travel light and carry the minimum amount of gear around. It too boasts a hardcase bottom and top, with the stylish Union Jack i-Design finish.
The Transit system fits perfectly in and around bedchairs to make bivvy life more organized. It all stacks together nicely at home, in the motor, and on the barrow. What’s more, it’s adaptable. With fold out, hard cases and removable sections, it’s the most comprehensive luggage range available. Not to mention one of the most cosmetically pleasing!
Looking for a nice little hookbait or stove bag? The Transit 1 is about as good as it gets, whilst the Coolstore range provides everything required for fresh bait, food and drink. We’ve thought of everything, including a top quality Barrow Bag, and you can be sure to expect more intelligent luggage solutions in the future. Watch this space!
All Stacked up Barrow Bag | Code: AV/TRBB • Multiple internal pockets • Moulded base for added protection • Clear hard-wearing wipe clean pocket in lid • Strong durable zips • Reinforced carry handles • 5 external pockets
Designed at the ideal size for loading onto your carp barrow and housing all your tackle. It also fits neatly in your bivvy without taking up too much space.
AVID carpers
55
KEEP YOUR COOL
CoolStore 3
CoolStore 2
1 23
CoolStore 1
Cool Store 1 | AV/CS1
Cool Store 2 | AV/CS2
Cool Store 3 | AV/CS3
• Compact • Great for storing food or bait
• Generous capacity • Great for storing food or bait
• Large capacity • Great for storing food or bait
It will store upwards of 5kg of boilies, but will also find favour with anglers wanting to take bottles of wine to the bankside! 390mm (H) x 110mm (D) x 250mm (W)
With a capacity for around 12kg of boilies, but can also be used for food storage. It’s sure to find favour amongst many anglers 390mm (H) x 250mm (D) x 250mm (W)
Coolstore 3 will actually house both the Coolstore 1 and 2 inside. There’s room for over 20kg of bait and a side pocket for cutlery or plates.440mm (H) x 270mm (D) x 380mm (W)
56
Check out avidcarp.com for all the latest news and updates
Time to be a tackle tart
If you want the latest terminal tackle that embraces modern carping tactics
We’ve got the answers and solutions from page 16
Transit 3 Transit 2 Transit 1
3 21
AVID carpers
Transit 3 | AV/TR3
Transit 2 | AV/TR2
Transit 1 | AV/TR1
• Large capacity • Moulded base for added protection • Clear hard-wearing pocket in lid • Flip design
• Generous capacity • Moulded base for added protection • Flip design to fit under all bedchairs easily
• Compact • Moulded base for added protection • Clear hard-wearing wipe clean pocket in lid • Flip design
The Transit 3 bag is the premium bag in the Transit System, providing two flip-open style compartments that can also be separated to make more room in the bivvy.
The Transit 2 bag makes the most of the space in your bivvy, offering two flip-open style compartments that will house everything you need. Fits neatly under your bedchair if required.
The Transit 1 bag is the smallest in the Transit range, offering two flip-open style compartments that are perfect for food, bait or your brew kit. The perfect luggage addition.
390mm (H) x 380mm (D) x 570mm (W)
300mm (H) x 330mm (D) x 500mm (W)
420mm (H) x 200mm (D) x 360mm (W)
57
AVID WEAR
“The blue hoodies really liven up an otherwise ordinary trophy shot.”
catch shot chic We’ve been wearing blue hoodies to boost the visual appeal of our catch shots since day one. Do the same with this college-style hoodie, or try the olive one for a more understated look out on the bank. Available in: AVHOODIE2/M Avhoodie2/L Avhoodie2/Xl Avhoodie2/Xxl AVHOODIE3/M Avhoodie3/L Avhoodie3/Xl Avhoodie3/Xxl
58
Green Medium Green Large Green XLarge Green XXLarge Blue Medium Blue Large Blue XLarge Blue XXLarge
g comin
soon
Check out avidcarp.com for all the latest news and updates
Follow Team Avid
Become a fan of Avid Carp on Facebook
Log in at www.facebook.com/avidcarp
team Player
retro style
This polo top features the exclusive Team Avid UK emblem, so you’ll feel like part of the team.
Boasting college-style letting and a worn effect Avid logo, this t-shirt is a stylish offering for spring/summer.
Available in: AVPSHIRT1/M AVPSHIRT1/L AVPSHIRT1/XL AVPSHIRT1/XXL
Available in: AVTSHIRT1/M AVTSHIRT1/L AVTSHIRT1/XL AVTSHIRT1/XXL
Medium Large XLarge XXLarge
g comin
soon
Medium Large XLarge XXLarge
g comin
soon
blending in This old-school hoody is sure to find popularity with anglers who want to blend into bankside foliage more effectively, whilst also looking cool out on the bank. Available in: AVHOODIE1/M AVHOODIE1/L AVHOODIE1/XL AVHOODIE1/XXL
AVID carpers
Medium Large XLarge XXLarge
g comin
soon
59
the shape of things to come
Join us on AVID CARP Unit 1, Highbridge Court, Stafford Park 1, Telford, Shropshire, TF3 3BD Tel: 01952 290520 Fax: 01952 291974 Email:info@avidcarp.com REGISTERED IN ENGLAND AND WALES. No: 03318338
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