In reply to Post #16
Sounds similar to the problem I have faced. A heavy rake on a rope you end up just pulling the boat towards the rake and angles don't seem to make a difference in my experience. It could be that a lighter rake might actually help come to think of it.

In reply to Post #7
The one thing I've not worked out is how to rake a spot from a boat and I'm sure I'm missing a trick. I've seen rakes on extendable poles but ones I've used you can't get enough purchase on the deck. If anyone's come up with a solution to that I'd be all ears

Rakes are a huge edge for clearing spots and improving the line lay going into a zone.

I am always surprised with how quickly carp (not just tench) can zone in on an area where naturals have been disrupted with a rake. The tenner a Gardner castable rake costs is well worth the money.

I bought Carpology last month on a whim and felt the same about the quality. It is simply not worth the money. Missing words, typos, stray characters and formatting

Thinking Anglers one is good, as is the Nash - would use both with confidence. The latter is a little wider and so easier to splice in my experience

Half price on a load of the original Tackle Box Darent Valley rods. Solid rods for the money at full price let alone 50%

In reply to Post #384
The common from El’s lake was actually 42, though I know it has gone higher previously at other times of the year. Still buzzing over those three carp! Cheers Mark.

Nice one mate. That is what it’s all about. I’ve been the young lad in that situation - 25 years on, I still send pictures to my dad’s best mate when I catch a nice one.

Ricci Connolly on the Korda podcast this week summarises well the value tackle shops bring beyond just product on a shelf - they're a hub of local knowledge, advice and community. I totally get people wanting to save costs and there are lots of examples of product with an unnecessary carp tax applied but that's where community (and this forum included) helps other anglers save - not through monetised links.

Last ordered from Barton’s Leads and found the price and quality to be decent - will be ordering again from them.