Ive never been a fan of gimmicky rigs and more often than not will just plump for a simple uncoated braid to a nice wide gape hook with a bit of silicone to hold the hair in place.

But every now and again a rig comes along which just seems to make sense, offering something different from the norm.  This can be definitely said of the “Shot on the hook” rig.  Ive used this a lot since being shown it several years ago, it is one that works for sure.

This rig is best used inside a solid pva bag with either pellet or groundbait as a filler.  The rig works by making the point of the hook heavy, meaning that it will hopefully drop onto the carps bottom lip making a secure hook hold.  I further this by adding a weight to the hooklink.  On such a short hooklink it would not normally be necessary to add weight but I feel in this instance it aids in dropping or pulling that hook down.  In a bag there is no need for a big bait, these 10mm “Action” pop ups are ideal.  The way to attach the shot is to double over a length of dental floss, pinch the shot on, a no4 or BB for bigger baits, then trim off the excess and finish off by blobing the floss with a lighter.  You will find that the shot will have a little play and will be moved around the bend of the hook once a fish is on.

I always have one rod set up with this method.  This weekend it was the “shot on the hook” that got me my only take resulting in this torpedo like 22lb common from Chilham Mill.