I use a Hook Box and keep the sharpest ones from the packet untouched and the rest I sharpen. That way I have a mixed approach to suit the presentation needed.

In reply to Post #1
I'd agree that they are quite small (I picked up the large thinking it was the medium), but the design would/could eliminate the need for a bivvy table. The internal storage space is still very good, but deep, so stuff will get buried in the bottom, unless you use the pouches for everything.

They are built well, and should last a very long time given the feet should protect the bottom.

In reply to Post #56
The ESP ones are great, just make sure you get the right size and they've never let me down and have been on my bank sticks for over 10 years. They do three sizes for full Cork, Abbreviated and shrink wrapped handles.

I bought the LifeSystems one early last year and its been brilliant since, I'd done my research and as Gerry says the cartridges are cheaper and last a decent amount of time.

Best value for money option IMHO.

S Plus Max overwrap if that's the one you're after. It's very clean as hardly ever used it, and recently replaced the Bivvy. DM me if want to know more.

Carp Particles UK do them as 1kg frozen slabs.

There are a lot of factors to consider when setting this up as a charity, so firstly I would say speak to an accountant, and you will need an accountant anyway, because Charities have specific reporting requirements.

Before you can open a account you will probably need to register with the Charity Commission, with Minutes of the Meeting and constitution documents. For this you will need to consider the Charity Structure i.e. a Limited Charity, which you may want to mitigate liabilities (given that it is a public venue).

There are quite a few bank providers such as Metro Bank that are smaller but have good online functionality and some branches, depending where in the country you are.

Good Luck

Rob Hughes did some really interesting underwater tests on lead and line lay. Based on this, and that it was slack or even semi slack its no surprise there was no indication, especially because the lead lifted vertically a few inches.

I do agree that its unlikely that it 'sussed' the hookbait, but be it a sales tactic or not, its hard to avoid the direct route the carp took to the pink hookbait, in comparison to the other times it fed on the free offerings, when it was grazing. But we all know a bright one can and does work at times, perhaps just because they are curious creatures and the mouth is the only way of 'testing' something.

I use the Crank or wide gape, if using the 15lb IQ I generally feel the need to use the chod style hook, but I have tried it and not had issues with either.

I'd prefer to use a Chod style if using a stiffer/thicker hook link material though.

I've had them with inbuilt solar and they are generally not very good because the recharge rate is seemingly very slow, even on a sunny day.

I highly rate the Anker powerbanks and usually have a couple of the 20,000mah or bigger. These are pretty cheap, hold their charge well and will top up an android smartphone 3/4 times over (apple phones slightly less).