What is a "stick"?
A "stick" is an anglicism for a bit of bait "swaddled" in soluble sock. You can put in a stick a little pellets, whole and crushed boilies, flour (stick-mix) worked with oil-based liquids, maggotsâ?¦ In fact, you can put anything in the soluble sock as long as there is no presence of water or aqueous bases that would prematurely melt the sock before casting.
In winter, it is important to choose a good quality soluble sock that melts well and does not remain at the bottom of the water for hours without moving.
Precise and light fishing
Before casting, it is important to sound out. The fishing with the stick is a very precise fishing. The line must be perfectly placed on places frequented by carp. The idea of this fishing is that a marauding fish and/or activity is interested in the light attractive baiting set up by the stick just next to the rig, and capture it without risking to stuff it with a too important baiting. This is why stick fishing is interesting in winter, when carp are not feeding much.
Small baits and discreet mounting
To get the most out of this tactic, the rig is also important. A discreet rig, with a small hook (size 8 to 12) and a small (10 mm) balanced bait is important. A small bait is always more addictive on a light bait. Before casting the line, you can boost the bait and stick with a spray boost or by soaking it in an "oily or non-watery" liquid to prevent the stick from melting.
