Single-hook clipped-down
AdvancedAlso called Clipped down, Long-distance clipped
The bait is held against the leader with a bait clip so it flies as one and releases in the water. The way to punch a bait into a headwind.
Long, clean casts with a single bait.
A bait clip, release timing, and a punch that does not dump the bait at 20 yards. You need a clean overhead or a learned pendulum, plus a clip that actually opens. Tying is fiddly; the cast is the real step up.
Diagram
When to use
Open sand when the bait must survive a long punch — a headwind, a distant bar, small-eyed rays, winter cod that are not in the first gutter.
Open beaches, small-eyed rays, winter cod, a bait that must survive 120 yards.
Ground and marks
Beach. Ground: sand, shingle.
Open sand when the bait must survive a long punch — a headwind, a distant bar, small-eyed rays, winter cod that are not in the first gutter.
A crowded pier, a first session, or a close bass surf. Clipping so tight the bait never releases dumps the session. A wild pendulum next to walkers is not fishing.
Long-range beaches still fish a moving tide. Distance is not a substitute for being in the gutter that is actually switched on.
Marks: Beach. Ground: sand, shingle.
Bait clipped to the leader, aerodynamic lead. The bait should pop off as the lead hits the water. Tighten, wait. If the bait is still clipped when you wind in, the clip is too tight.
Hooks 1–4/0. Lead: 5–6 oz, aerodynamic.
Braid or a well-filled mono spool, 60 lb shock leader, bait clip on the leader, breakaway or grip lead 5–6 oz, single hook length held in the clip. Beads either side of the clip. Power gum or a bait band as you prefer.
How to tie it
- 01Learn the clip on a quiet beach, not in a match gale.
- 02The bait should pop off as the lead hits the water.