Eel Tips.
When using small dead baits the eel is similar to the pike in that it will take it head first as this makes it easier for the eel to swallow the fins.
But the problem with eels are that they can detect vibrations and can be scared off very easily. Therefore at the first sign of a bite with the bale arm off very slowly put the bale arm over but becareful because those vibrations could travel down the line.
Once you have done this then you need a nice smooth action on the strike not a jerk or too fast but nice and smooth and if this is successful you will feel the pressure on the other end of the line and let the fight begin
The Strike
1
When considering bait selection then one of the best baits around still is the lobworm use two or three of these and you will find success
2
When using dead bait try not to get carried away with the size of your dead bait, use a fish around five inches but make sure its fresh, the fresher the better
The Darkness.
Not the popular rock beat combo with speaker bursting songs but the night darkness. Eels love the dark and will become active during the dead of night. Also those heavy humid summer nights are also good when looking for eel action.
However also where there are deep deep waters such as gravel pits or resevoirs the deep water is dark therefore fishing for eels in the daylight is also productive.
But fishing eel at nights has to provide some good screaming reel action and a tremendous feeling when the beast finally shows itself out of the dark waters
3
Eels love to hide therefore when fishing eel waters look for features especially sunken features eels love these but move from feature to feature as the big eels pick the best so move about for best results
4
Eels are notoriously slippery therefore you need to take some gloves to help in the unhooking process and also help to prevent damage to the fish
5
In terms of the trace you choose, choose well as eels like pike have been known to chew through thick trace. However there are specialist trace available for the likes of pike and catfish that are recommended. Or use single strand filament but many of them that can be easily twisted and knotted.