What do you want from a float controller when the target is
surface feeding carp?
This is what I look for:
- Enough weight to enable me to cast a light bait such as a
single Chum Mixer.
- Easily visible when fishing at range.
- Unobtrusive so that it doesn't spook wary carp.
There are one or two controllers on the market that come quite close to offering that specification, but none that really make it.
One of the best is the small Drennan controller, made from clear plastic, with a built-in weight at the bottom. Its greatest drawback is that the plastic was shiny and when the sun glinted off that shiny finish it was often enough to send a wary carp running for cover. A good rub with a chunk of wire wool or some gritty soil at the waterside helped no end.
But Drennan brand ESP have addressed the problem and come up with a set of controllers that are the closest thing to perfection I've yet seen.
The ESP Carp Controllers feature a blow-moulded body with a matt, spark finished surface, thus eliminating the risk of glint or reflection.
They also have a muted green colouration and a fluted body which helps greatly when mending the line in that movement of the controller is kept to a minimum. This 'grip' also helps in the bolt effect when a carp takes the bait.
The body is aerodynamically shaped to aid long range casting when required, and the bright fluorescent orange cap makes it easily visible at range.
This bright orange can be covered easily with another, more discreet, colour, if it's thought necessary.
ESP Carp Controllers are available in three sizes and weights: 5g, 10g and 15g.
Prices are £2.95 for the 5g, £3.15/10g and £3.25/15g.
justin wooddeson
