Predacious Pike
Esox is one of the largest predators in native waters. It is therefore not surprising that many anglers are interested in doing battle with this sharp-toothed beast. Pike remain motionless, lying in wait for prey. Their teeth are angled back towards the gullet, providing for a firm grip on prey Their teeth are angled back to the mouth, providing for a firm grip on prey. High-backed fish have the greatest chance of escape, few others are given the chance. The teeth are not really for chewing but provide firstly for a firm grip and secondly a means for the pike to turn fish in its mouth, allowing it to swallow them. This is one reason why the choice of trace is so important. Many anglers using monofilaments when predatory fishing will find that the trace will be severed on the sharp teeth.
The are several choices when selecting traces:
Steel Trace:
One of the oldest and most popular traces. Multiple steel threads are wound together to produce the trace. This type of trace is very strong and highly resilient. Using crimps and the necessary pliers will help you create a very effective system in a short time. One of the disadvantages of steel traces is their lack of suppleness. Steel traces tend to be rigid and adversely affect the normally life like swimming motion of artificial lures.
Kevlar Trace:
Kevlar is a a very light, very strong synthetic fibre material. Its flexes are braided together to produce a single stable strand. Kevlar is a material that amongst others, is used in the production of bulletproof vests - an indication of its strength. It has 2 further interesting characteristics: It is supple and can be bound to normal monofilament line with ease (no need for crimps). It is incredibly smooth, meaning that is does not effect the behaviour of artificial lures in the water.
Hard Mono:
Hard Mono has not been on the market for long. It possesses similar characteristics to monofilament line, yet is significantly more resilient. Tests have been carried out, proving that this trace is capable of playing pike without receiving any noticeable damage. Another interesting characteristic is that this mono is transparent, meaning that it is virtually invisible to pike.
As you can see, there are a variety of trace materials available - the choice is yours. The trace is not the only item you should take care in selecting. You should ensure that you have the correct swivel to prevent the trace from twisting. Knots should be tied with care. Slightly damping knots when binding can help reduce friction and material wear. Further accessories, such as gloves, arterial clamps, and large net should also be taken along. Check your gear before leaving home to prevent nasty surprises on the water.
We wish you plenty of success, an enjoyable fight, and tight lines.
This month, once again, we have a few interesting product suggestions:
Kogha EXT
Sturdy reels with 10 ball bearings, a rear drag and much more!
http://shop.askari-fishing.co.uk/84849.85.585
Kogha Crownlake Spin
Great carbon rods with strengthening kevlar weave, SIC guides and a Portuguese cork grip. Ideal for pike hunters!
http://shop.askari-fishing.co.uk/93936.85.585
Perca Pike Line
The line has a very low memory, making it easier to set the hook on the strike and control the pike on its powerful surges. With a surface coating.
http://shop.askari-fishing.co.uk/97214.85.585
Perca Predator System Clip
Perfectly suited to use in still and slow flowing waters.
http://shop.askari-fishing.co.uk/92153.85.585
Perca Wire Leader, Qty 12
Ready to use steel wire leaders made of super quality steel wire material.
http://shop.askari-fishing.co.uk/60372.85.585
Kogha 49-Strand Steel Trace
An extremely flexible, strong steel trace for predator fishing.
http://shop.askari-fishing.co.uk/97103.85.585
Climax Hard Mono Predator Trace
This monofilament trace is as tough as steel but is smoother and more flexible.
http://shop.askari-fishing.co.uk/85764.85.585
Kogha Predator Set + Multi-function Pocket Knife as a super set
A set that will bring a smile to many predator anglers - contains all you need to expertly land and kill the fish.
http://shop.askari-fishing.co.uk/96688.85.585
Kogha Supreme Anglers' Cap
A modern, attractive cap. The peak has been extended a little more than usually to provide shade from glancing reflections.
http://shop.askari-fishing.co.uk/92193.85.585