Home|
Advice|
Tips

Try the wag and mag to catch more fish

Lee Newson explains why reaching for rod and line will offish a pole in the winter...

by Tony Grigorjevs |

Published on13th February 2026 at 4.32pm

Pole fishing is extremely popular these days, but there was a time when the waggler ruled supreme.

An approach that combined finesse with the ability to fish well away from the bank, it was seen as the perfect winter tactic for most species. But as time passed, its dominance waned, and these days many anglers don’t even consider it a viable approach. However, the top matchmen will tell you that’s a mistake!

The waggler is every bit as effective as it used to be and, in some scenarios, could well catch you more. So, if the carp in your local commercial are proving hard to catch, grab some maggots and unlock your swim’s potential!

THE BEST FLOAT FISHING RODS ARE PERFECT FOR FISHING WAG AND MAG.

Sneak the rig in

There’s no place for the chunky pellet wagglers that are used when it is warm, and a more sensitive pattern is required. A loaded Maver Signature Pro 1 float is ideal. Use the lightest version you can in the conditions, placing rubber stops either side to secure it. A quick-change adaptor will help you swap floats if conditions change.

A GOOD ROD NEEDS A GREAT REEL IN THIS GUIDE FIND THE BEST FISHING REELS.

Search the swim

Location is absolutely vital in winter, as loads of carp could be packed into just a handful of swims. Ask the fishery staff which pegs are producing the goods, as the carp are likely to remain there for weeks on end. If that’s not possible, keep casting to different areas to try locate the shoal, and when you do, it’s time to fill your boots!

THE BEST PELLET WAGGLER RODS WILL ALSO SUIT THIS TECHNIQUE.

Fine down your tackle

Finesse is important when the going gets tough. If you don’t use appropriate tackle, there could be fish sat there and you still won’t get a bite. Use 5lb mainline and a 0.13mm hooklength to a medium-wire size 18 hook. Rod choice is also important, and a blank that is soft-actioned at the top end will prevent you from bumping off any fish.

UNDERSTAND THE IMPORTANCE OF BALANCED TACKLE IN THIS EXPERT ARTICLE.

Minimise the disturbance

There’s no need to feed much, or anything at all sometimes, with a single maggot falling through the water often being enough to get a bite if the rig is in the right place. Set it to dead depth and leave it in place for up to 10 minutes at a time, occasionally twitching the float to stimulate a response from any carp that might be sat dormant nearby.

DISCOVER HOW TO FEED ACCURATELY WITH A CATAPULT IN THIS HANDY GUIDE.

Just so you know, we may receive a commission or other compensation from the links on this website - read why you should trust us