Coarse method · difficulty 2/5

Method Feeder for Roach

A frame feeder moulded with groundbait, with a short hooklength buried in the mix. Applied to roach, that means 2–5 lb main line and a match or pole rod, light action rod as your baseline.

Last reviewed 26 September 2026 · Editorial policy

The setup

Rod, reel, line and hooks

Rod
Match or pole rod, light action, 11–13 ft
Reel
2500 match reel, or pole
Main line
2–5 lb
Hooks
Size 14–22 fine-wire hooks
Method — Rod
10'–12' feeder rod with a quiver tip
Method — Line
6–10 lb main line, 4–8 inch hooklength
Method — Hook
Size 12–16 with a bait band

Where the species baseline and the method spec differ, the method spec is the more specific advice — the species row tells you the strength you need, the method row tells you the behaviour you need.

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Mechanics

Why this works on this fish

How the rig works

The feeder delivers bait and hookbait to exactly the same spot every cast. As the mix breaks down, the hookbait sits in the middle of the feed, and the feeder's weight self-hooks the fish against a tight line.

Roach behaviour

Small natural food, maggots, casters, bread and hemp. Delicate, fast bites.

Canals, rivers, lakes and drains; shoals in mid-water over silt and gravel.

Conditions

When to fish it

Mild overcast days; steady loose-feeding keeps the shoal in the swim.

Watch out
Short hooklengths are what make it self-hooking. Long ones lose the effect.
On the water

Roach tips

  • Feed little and often to hold the shoal without filling them up.
  • Fine hooklengths and small hooks produce far more bites.
  • Shot your float so only the tip shows — roach bites are tiny.
Local rules apply
Seasons, licences, hook and bait restrictions differ by water. Confirm what is permitted for roach on your venue before fishing this method.
Alternatives

Other methods for roach

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FAQ

Common questions

What line do I need for method feeder for roach?

Use 2–5 lb main line, adjusting for cover and water clarity.

What hook size for method feeder for roach?

Size 14–22 fine-wire hooks.

What rod and reel suit method feeder for roach?

A match or pole rod, light action rod around 11–13 ft with 2500 match reel, or pole.

Is method feeder hard to learn?

Difficulty is 2/5 (easy). Short hooklengths are what make it self-hooking. Long ones lose the effect.

When does method feeder work best for roach?

Mild overcast days; steady loose-feeding keeps the shoal in the swim.