Okay, there’s only so much you can say about PVA cord (or string, if you prefer) but like anything in fishing I am very fussy in what I use, right down to the tiniest detail. I’m no stranger to fishing PVA stringers of three to five baits over a spread of boilies but I’m particular about what PVA I use to do so. It’s a similar story when it comes to tying off solid PVA bags. Tape stretches and some strings are not robust enough.
The successor to the Tournament 5000, which achieved cult status and continues to appeal to many anglers, the Entoh brought a new wave of technology to the top-end-reel market when first launched. Now, the latest incarnation, the 5000QDA, takes what is an already brilliant performer to a new level altogether. It’s not just about the sultry new matt-black body either, although this is in keeping with modern trends as reels move towards this stealthy look and away from the ‘bling’ of silvers and gunmetal greys. It’s packed full of Daiwa’s leading features, including AirBail, Twistbuster, Infinite Anti-Reverse; boasts a HardBodyz construction for longevity and generally has a feeling of quality build and reliability.
• Long sticks specifically designed for wrapping your lines to mark distance • Updated to a longer length for easier use• Supplied in a bag for easy storage and with a 12ft cord for consistent measuringRRP: £18. 99Website: www. cygnettackle. co.
• Soft fleece hoody and trousers for wearing in the bivvy as an under layer• Features elasticated cuffs to trap warm air on cold days• Offer exclusive to Climax Tackle RRP: £30Website: www. climaxtackle. com. .
Having used Greys’ Isoflex’s exclusively for six months I have definitely put them through their paces. I have fished a wide range of venues, some where long casts are necessary, and they have performed brilliantly. The fast-taper blank allows fantastic tip recovery, ensuring repeated smooth casts that hit the money every time. I swapped from progressive (through) action rods and have seen no significant fish loses due to the stiffer tip when playing fish.
I have been using the TF Gear Dave Lane Mag Runner alarms for a little over three months and it’s so far so good. The set comprises three alarms and a receiver unit and what fantastic value for money it is. I like simplicity when it comes to alarms because simplicity works and there’s not a lot that can go wrong. Each alarm has an on/off switch; bright, luminous roller wheel and a switch to link up with the receiver.
With winter well and truly upon us, a warm sleeping bag is paramount. This five-season version from Vision is brilliant. The fully waterproof and breathable Windtex fabric houses a four-season, single, fleece-lined, thermal quilt to keep you toasty in even the worst of conditions. The detachable pillow offers added comfort, while the fabric hoods at the base and head ends fit over your bedchair to fix it in place.
At first glance, the steep price tag may look unappealing but grab a bottle of this stuff and give it a go. On opening the bottle a salty fish aroma hits you that resembles the smell of ground fish. Put a good helping of the liquid onto a hook bait and the thickness sticks brilliantly, even on impact with the water. With it being PVA-friendly I wouldn’t be averse to putting a squirt or two in a bag to increase the pulling power or adding it to a stick mix.