Poles & Whips

Pole, whip or traditional telescopic pole?

A fishing pole is a long, sectional pole with a shock-absorbing pole elastic running through the top sections. You do not cast it. Instead, you add or remove sections so the float can be lowered precisely over your feed. Once a fish is hooked, you unship the pole behind you and play the fish on the top kit alone. Commercial poles are built to handle big carp, while short margin poles are made for fishing tight to the bank.

A whip is a light telescopic pole with the line tied straight to the tip and no elastic. It is a fast tool for catching small fish close in. The traditional telescopic pole and the ready-made pole set are classics for the lakeside and the jetty, and children's poles are short and light so young anglers can manage them easily.

Pole fishing works as a system, and the accessories make a big difference. With top, cupping and margin kits you can have several rigs set up and ready to go, and mini extensions let you fine-tune the length. Pole elastics, connectors, bushes, bungs and puller beads are all chosen to match the size of fish you are targeting.

A pole roller supports the long pole as you ship it out and back, and roosts and rests keep the sections in order beside your seatbox. A well-organised swim makes pole fishing faster, keeps your hands free for feeding and cuts down on damaged sections.

If you are new to the method, a short pole with a couple of spare top kits is a good starting point. You can add length, kits and accessories as your skills and your target waters develop.