Mastering the Helicopter Rig for Tench Fishing

Tench fishing can be a rewarding yet challenging experience, but one rig that has climbed to the top of popularity among anglers is the helicopter rig. Its design, which may appear crude at first glance—especially with a short hook length positioned closely to the feeder—proves to be remarkably effective.

Why Choose the Helicopter Rig? This rig has become a staple among Tench anglers, largely thanks to the incredible success enjoyed by Dai Gribble, a member of Tenchfishers. He showcased the rig’s potential, particularly when using the well-regarded “worm kebab,” which has gained traction among enthusiasts. While the worm kebab is perhaps the most recognized bait combination, the helicopter rig can equally excel with casters, maggots, bollies, etc.

Choosing the Right Feeder The Korum Combi Feeder is my favorite due to its versatility. It can function as both a closed feeder and an open-end feeder, depending on your fishing style. For tench fishing, a feeder weighing between 45-60 grams is often ideal. However, pay attention to your rod’s capacity; overloading can affect your casting accuracy. It’s often wiser to cast more frequently with a lighter setup than to risk mishaps with heavier weights.

The Hook Length For the hook length, many anglers opt for around 8lb mono with a quick stop for the worm kebab setup. Ideally, this hook length should measure about 6-8 inches, with enough distance between the feeder and the hook to prevent tangling. Variations do exist; for example, you could shorten the hook length when using maggots or switch to a stripped back coated braid or fluorocarbon. While these alternatives have their merits, mono or copolymer remains the go-to choice for reliability and simplicity.

Optimal Baiting Techniques When it comes to baiting, you have the flexibility to fish your bait on the bottom or pop it up, depending on your approach. When using the rotary or helicopter components, avoid rubber float stops or grippa-type stops. While they may seem convenient, experience teaches that they can grip the line too tightly, preventing the hook link from releasing in the event of a breakage. Instead, consider attaching the feeder using a clip, which allows for easy and quick changes.

Initial Casting Strategy To kick off a feeder session, casting frequently, in the beginning, is essential for spreading bait in your chosen area unless you have a baitboat. Consider starting with a larger feeder, then transitioning to a smaller one once the fish begin to bite. Some anglers prefer using a Spomb for baiting, especially when fishing with softer baits like chopped worm and caster. However, keep in mind that in deeper waters and windy conditions, this method can sometimes spread your bait farther than intended. A heavier feeder can help mitigate this issue. Interestingly, tench are not easily spooked by disturbances in the water. They often investigate raked swims, making the initial disturbance a potential attractant rather than a deterrent.

Final Thoughts The helicopter rig is undoubtedly a favored choice among tench anglers for its effectiveness and versatility. With the right components—such as the Korum Combi Feeder, appropriate hook lengths, and smart baiting strategies—you can elevate your fishing game. As always, practice patience and adaptability, and soon you’ll likely find yourself reeling in more tench than you ever thought possible.  if you would like to book a trip with us get in touch.

Happy fishing!