SMALL MATERIAL GUIDE

Leaders / Traces

You have a choice of materials for your trace. Our preference is monofilament, 80 to 100lb for trolling and 60 to 70lb for shore fishing, 1.50–2.00m length. Mono lacks finesse and is difficult to knot, but is strong, better camouflaged and is reliable. It also has the ability to stretch and bounce over rocks. We do not recommend wire.

Swivels & Links

We recommend Berkley, Rosco or Sampo in 100lb+ for heavy work, and 70lb plus for lighter shore fishing.
Even the best snap links are sometimes ripped open by a big Nile Perch. Although an opening snap link is rare, it has happened enough times for us to recommend that snap links should not be used. Our method is to attach a monofilament leader directly to the lure using a Rapala type knot, which works very well. Please ask our guides for this knot.

Hooks and Split Rings

Most lures are supplied with split rings and hooks that are inadequate for medium to big Nile Perch. The only reliable trebles available are Owner, Gamakatsu, Mustad 5XX and the VMCs. Bring sizes from 1/0 to 3/0.
Rapala and Wolverine split rings are trustworthy in the bigger sizes. Bring spares, as even the best hooks and rings can get damaged. Nile Perches have very strong jaws.

Most split rings have only two turns; the third turn on the Wolverine split rings make all the difference but it’s not absolutely necessary.

Other helpful equipment

For changing the hooks and split rings it is very useful to take with you special pliers with a split ring tool. Rapala has a variety of good pliers. You should always keep the pliers with you for liberating the fish from the hooks. Don’t try to unhook with your hands, you might hook up yourself while the fish is still shaking around! Further you might also take a Boga Grip or small Gaff for shore fishing.