Feeder for fishing: a competent approach to choosing a rod, subtleties and nuances

Feeder is a modern donka that came to us from foggy England. Every year feeder tackle is gaining more and more popularity: new models of rods, reels, rigs appear, more and more people come to this type of fishing. The English donka is popular due to the combination of stationary fishing and the high enthusiasm of the angler, who constantly interacts with the tackle. This feeder differs from the classic snack.

How and when to use a feeder

Feeder tackle is a long rod with a soft whip, a specialized inertialess reel with a large spool, as well as a fishing line or cord. Each fan of bottom fishing has his own list of rigs that share common similarities.

Feeder tackle is recognized by several components:

• specialized feeder;
• a long leash with a small hook;
• loop system of equipment;
• variety of mounting options.

A fishing feeder is a long rod that is convenient for getting fish near the coastal zone, as well as accurately casting the feeder over long distances. The tackle has a long and comfortable handle, the materials for which are cork wood and EVA polymer. Unlike spinning, which often has curly and spaced types of handles, the feeder has a monolithic handle.

In the fishing market, you rarely see telescopic feeder gear, as a rule, they are classified as a budget price category. A quality plug-type rod consists of 3-4 parts. Many manufacturers, complete with a blank, put several tops of different dough and colors. The bright colors of the rod tip make it possible to observe cautious bites even at dusk or on a cloudy day with precipitation.

Feeder as an independent way of fishing appeared in the mid-70s, the purpose of which was originally a chub. In those days, it was believed that the English donk was easily mastered even by people who were far from fishing, so everyone who wanted to participate in the competitions.

There are a large number of rings along the blank of the rod. Modern access rings come in several types: fuji, alkonite, sic, on two or three legs, with ceramic inserts or other material inside. The rim itself is made from dense metals such as titanium.

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Winter feeder has a wide type of rings. This is due to the use of the rod in severe frosty fishing conditions. Wide rings freeze much more slowly, which gives time for biting and playing the fish.

The first rods were made from fiberglass and other composite materials. Today, the basis of the blank is considered to be high-modulus graphite or carbon. The most expensive rods are made of carbon fiber, they have a high degree of flexibility, low weight. However, the presence of such a form requires delicate handling. Carbon fiber does not tolerate shock, so feeder gear is transported in soft tubes. Also, the material has a high electrical conductivity, and manufacturers of fishing products strongly do not recommend catching them in a thunderstorm or under power lines.

On what grounds should a rod be selected?

At the moment, both leading brands of international scale and local companies are engaged in the manufacture of blanks for bottom fishing. The main difference is technology and raw materials. The high cost of branded tackle is justified, because the branded fishing rod is made of high-quality material and balanced. Smooth installation of rings is another advantage of expensive models. Budget products are assembled without any guarantees of quality, so a crookedly set tulip or a through-ring is not uncommon.

The main selection criteria:

• form length;
• test load;
• number of vertices;
• weight and material;
• price category.

For fishing on small rivers, short rods are selected, the height of which does not exceed 2,7 m. A narrow pond does not require long casting, this length is enough to put the feeder exactly under the opposite bank.

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On lakes and ponds, an average length is used: from 3 to 3,8 m. Such rods are most popular among lovers of recreation near a pond. In large water areas, such as reservoirs, the longest blanks are used, allowing you to get fish over a long distance. The high blank is also used in long shallow waters to reach the crest or stall.

According to the test load, they determine for themselves the model of the rod that is best suited for specific fishing conditions. For fishing at great depths and strong currents, more powerful blanks are used that are able to work with a large weight of the feeder.

Also, in a strong current, long models are recommended for selection. A feeder with a height of about 4 m cuts the angle of entry of the fishing line, so the debris floating along the water stream does not cling to the nylon. If you use short models on the rapids, floating remains of plants, snags and other natural and human debris will fill up on the fishing line, moving the feeder from the fishing area.

Each tackle must be equipped with different tops. For informational purposes, manufacturers of fishing products mark them with a test load. Thus, you can fish with a heavy rod with a delicate tip and vice versa. This feature allows the angler to adjust the tackle to the conditions of fishing and the activity of prey. The softest products are used for weak biting. Unlike blanks, tips are made from completely different materials, such as fiberglass.

When casting, the tip flexes completely due to the soft and flexible material. The form takes over the entire installation load, so you can safely use a heavy feeder with a soft signaling device.

Since the feeder rod is constantly used by the angler, its weight plays an important role in the comfort of fishing. A heavy rod is difficult to manage throughout the daylight hours, not to mention daily trips. Composite models are recommended only for beginners who begin to master this type of fishing. If the activity was to your liking, you can switch to more expensive carbon fiber products.

Feeder for fishing for beginners has a basic set of functions. As a rule, this is a stiff rod with a high margin of safety, allowing you to make mistakes during the fight or cast. Graphite blank does not forgive overload, so it is used by experienced lovers of hunting peaceful fish.

Rod classification

The division of forms into subcategories comes from their characteristics. The market is represented by long, medium and short rods used for specific angling conditions. Before choosing gear, you need to familiarize yourself with their differences.

According to the feeder test, several classes are determined:

• easy;
• average;
• heavy;
• superheavy.

Rods up to 3 m are called pickers, above this mark – feeders. Picker “sticks” are used to study the short range, feeder – to fish the entire water area, including the far horizon.

The light class includes pickers without a particular length and test load. Feeder models belong to the middle and heavy class.

Pickers of the light class have a length of up to 2,4 m and a test of up to 30 g. Such tackle is used to catch small fish, for example, roach near the coastal zone. A light picker is used on makeshift ponds near private houses, small swamps and lakes.

Medium category pickers are 2,7 m long with a test range of 15-40 g. They are used for fishing on ponds and rivers when exploring bank edges and promising places near the fishing site.

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Heavy pickers found themselves in catching on the current of such species of fish as chub, ide, roach. Their length is 3 m with a maximum test limit of 110 g.

Light feeder “sticks” are characterized by a high casting distance with a rod growth of 3-3,3 m. For fishing, feeders of 30-50 g are used, they are usually caught in stagnant water bodies.

Feeders of the middle class cover more complex sections of water bodies: rivers with a current, pits at a long distance, etc. Their length reaches 3,5 m, they work with sinkers up to 80 g.

Heavy feeders are capable of casting heavy equipment at distances of 80-100 m. The length of the blank reaches 4,2 m, but there are also longer products.

In addition to the main characteristics, there are additional ones, such as:

• width and type of rings;
• handle length;
• form form;
• number of sections.

All these properties of forms help to understand which feeder is better to buy for fishing. It is better to transport tackle unassembled: separate the reel from the rod in special rubberized covers that protect against moisture and accidental damage.

TOP 16 best feeder rods

For any enthusiastic angler, one rod is not enough. Fans of bottom fishing with an English rod have at their disposal at least 2-3 gear. This allows you to cover a larger list of possible fishing conditions: shallow water, long distances, deep waters and strong currents. The rating includes both light class models and heavier counterparts.

Banax Small

A mid-range rod suitable for advanced anglers. A series of feeders from the Banax company is a combination of competent balancing with low weight and an impressive margin of safety. The material for the blank is high-modulus graphite, the handle is made of a combination of cork wood with EVA polymer.

The length of the rod is 3,6 m, which is enough for long distance fishing. The maximum test load limit is 110 g, weight -275 g. Modern Kigan SIC throughput rings are installed along the form. The model has a medium-fast action. The kit comes with three interchangeable tips of different shades and weight loads.

Shimano Beastmaster Dx Feeder

One of the expensive rods on the market is made from high strength carbon fiber. This model is a light and elegant rod that is suitable for fishing in any current. The height of the blank is 4,27 m, weight – 380 g. The rod is capable of working with rigs up to 150 g, fishing in strong currents and great depths.

Experienced users have identified this product as the best fishing feeder for a number of parameters: flexibility, strength, power reserve, weight, perfect balance, comfort in the hand. Shimano Hardlite guides are mounted along the blank, three tips with different tests go to the rod. The manufacturer has invested in his product a quick system.

Zemex Rampage River Feeder 13ft 150g Fast

A series of professional rods for true fans of feeder fishing, both at the amateur and sporting levels. The material of the blank is graphite, the handle is made of a combination of cork and EVA polymer. With a length of 3,9 m, the rod has a fast action and three interchangeable tips. According to the blank, durable steel rings with silicon oxide inserts K-Series Korea are installed.

This rod is in the top of the best models due to the high demand among professional sports anglers. It is characterized as “a reliable tool for fishing in all conditions.” The blank works with feeders from 100 to 150 g.

Shimano BeastMaster AX BT S 12-20

Mid-range rod for advanced anglers. Made from high modulus XT60 graphite with an EVA handle. Hardlite rings are mounted according to the blank at an inclination of 45°. The comfortable handle fits nicely in the hand and does not weigh down the brush during fishing. With a total weight of 21 g, it has a height of 2,28 m. This model is used by anglers for fishing at short distances, exploring small rivers and lakes.

The modern design of the reel seat is combined with an attractive appearance of the rod. This form is characterized as “the best device for fishing at short distances.” Not far from the handle is a convenient hook for the hook.

DAIWA NINJA FEEDER

The excellent design of the fishing rod of the Japanese manufacturer is combined with the modern appearance of the model. The length of the blank is 3,6 m. The feeder has a fast action, it is used for fishing on rivers and ponds, in still and running water. The product consists of three blank parts and three interchangeable tips. Steel rings with titanium inserts are mounted on the rod.

The tops are painted in different colors, have different test load. The feeder is used to work with feeders up to 120 g. The model of the middle price category has an ideal balance and fits perfectly in the hand.

Salmo Sniper FEEDER 90 3.60

Inexpensive rod made of a composite of carbon and fiberglass. This product will be a great start for amateur anglers who decide to master feeder fishing. The rod has 3 removable tips with different markings, equipped with a modern type of Sic guides.

With a blank length of 3,6 m, the rod works with feeders up to 90 g. Recommended for fishing in stagnant waters or in weak currents. The medium-fast feeder action is considered universal. In this price category, it is considered a standard, but it has a number of errors: periodic tip protrusion, weight, weak ceramic inserts.

FANATIK MAGNIT FEEDER 3.60 m 120g

The graphite/fiberglass composite rod is factory assembled in China, making it an affordable price for most bottom shore anglers. The plug type rod is equipped with several interchangeable tips. The handle has a cork insert, the rest is made of EVA, a modern reel seat is installed. Blank length – 3,6 m, test load – 120 g.

Sic rings with ceramic inserts are mounted according to the blank to prevent chafing of the fishing line or cord. In this price segment, it is considered one of the best models, blocking the zone of a powerful feeder designed for catching large fish.

Fanatik Pulemet Feeder 300cm 120g

Another Fanatik product aimed at catching peaceful fish species from the bottom. The rod is in the budget class and is suitable for anglers who decide to get acquainted with this method of fishing. The weight of the rod is 245 g, the length is 3 m, the maximum test load is 120 g. The product is recommended for fishing on rivers and ponds, lakes and reservoirs.

The feeder tackle is made of a composite of graphite and fiberglass. There are Sic rings on the blank. EVA polymer was chosen as the material for the handle. At the top of the butt there is a reliable reel seat.

Mikado Ultraviolet Heavy Feeder 420

This low price rod is designed to give the basics to beginner feeder fans. The characteristics of the blank are also suitable for advanced bottom fishing enthusiasts. The material for the blank was a modern type of carbon fiber MX-9, the handle is made in a monolithic style of cork wood, has a heel at the end. The rod is 4,2 m tall and weighs 390 g. High-quality Sic guides with ceramic inserts are installed along the length of the blank.

Medium-fast action is combined with a fairly high load capacity. The maximum test load is 120 g. It is better to transport this model by car, since the assembled rod has an impressive length.

Kaida Breathing 3.0/60-150

Composite rod made from a combination of carbon fiber and fiberglass. It has a length of 3 m in working condition and 1,1 m in transport form. The test range of the rod is within 60-150 g. According to the form, Sic rings with inserts from chafing of the fishing line are mounted. The handle is made of rubber cork.

A powerful and durable rod has a decent power reserve, suffers small blows on the blank, so it forgives many mistakes to its owner. One of the most budget rods will be a great start to the path in the feeder. The kit comes with three tops.

Cadence CR10 12ft Feeder

A mid-range model that will captivate the experienced angler with elegance and plenty of power. The length of the blank is 3,66 m, the weight of the product is 183 g. The feeder is made of high-modulus graphite and has a convenient reel seat that securely fixes the inertia-free product. The butt is made from a combination of cork and EVA polymer material.

For the blank, Fuji guides made of thin, corrosion-resistant steel were used. The rod test is in the range of 28-113g, which allows you to cover a wide range of fishing spots. Comes with interchangeable tops.

FLAGMAN Grantham Feeder 3,6m test max 140g

Powerful extra-class rod designed for fishing in large waters, strong currents and great depths. The feeder combines reliability and comfortable operation. The butt is made of cork with the addition of EVA material, fits perfectly in the hand, without weighing down the brush. The weight of the product is 216 g, the length is 3,6 m, the test load is up to 140 g. The set also includes three tops of different carrying capacity.

According to the form, modern strong rings are installed that do not prevent the fishing line from slipping. The manufacturer characterizes the structure of the model as progressive. When casting, the bending point is in the area of ​​fast action, when fighting, the blank turns into a parabolic.

Feeder Concept Distance 100 3.90

Modern design, quality material and advanced features make the rod one of the leading in its class. Despite the growth of 3,9 m, the feeder has a low weight – only 300 g. Three tips of different markings allow you to adjust the tackle to the bite and fishing conditions. An atypical solution for blanks of this direction is the spaced handle made of EVA material.

The maximum test load is 100 g. The rod is equipped with durable metal rings with a special coating and an internal insert. Also, the model has a high-quality reel seat.

CARP PRO Blackpool Method Feeder

This rod has been designed for catching big fish, including carp, with heavy rigs. The blank is 3,9 m tall and weighs 320 g. The maximum test load is 140 g. The rod is made of graphite, the handle is made of EVA polymer and has a monolithic shape.

Slow action provides support when pumping trophy prey. Powerful rings are installed along the form, which do not fray the cord or fishing line, distributing the load evenly over the form.

MIKADO GOLDEN LION FEEDER 360

Inexpensive, but high-quality rod in the most popular size and test. The plug rod consists of three main parts and an interchangeable tip. The kit comes with three tips in different colors, indicating the test. The maximum load capacity of the tool is 100 g.

The form has a reliable holder for the reel, as well as a comfortable rubberized handle. Medium-fast action varies long casts with big fish pumped out. Powerful rings easily endure low temperatures, and evenly distribute the load.

MIKADO SENSEI LIGHT FEEDER 390

A plug feeder with a height of 3,9 m and a test of up to 110 g is able to cover many conditions for catching white fish: deep holes, current, long distances. The blank is made of carbon fiber, the handle is made of cork wood, has an extension at the bottom of the butt. Convenient spool holder securely fixes the product. Along the blank there are access rings that evenly distribute the load when fighting large fish.

The medium-fast action model combines the range of the feeder and the possibility of forced fighting in tight spaces. The product of the middle price category is in demand among advanced feeders.

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