ASK THE EXPERTS
When sending your question, please remember to include your name and address
CHRIS KENNEDY
Chris is a specimen hunting specialist based on Sark and answers shore fishing questions.
DAVE LEWIS
Based in Newport, South Wales, our contributing editor Dave answers boat fishing questions.
JOHN HOLDEN
A Sea Angler contrbutor for over four decades specialising in casting and rod building.
HENRY GILBEY
Angler, blogger and photojournalist Henry, based in Cornwall, is our lure expert.
BEN BASSETT
The Plymouth angler and blogger will provide answers on the sport of light rock fishing (LRF), the go-anywhere tactic.
HOW TO ASK US A QUESTION
Email: sa.ed@kelsey.co.uk or online: facebook.com/seaanglermag
By asking a question you are giving us permission to use your name and where you live in all versions and platforms of this magazine.
SHORE ANGLING
Q Would you use wire or mono for a shore tope trace? If mono what’s the minimum breaking strain I should use?
JUSTIN HARRIS, LONDON
CK says: Ultimately, this is going to come down to personal preference. Both monofilament and a good quality 49-strand wire will do the job. Sharks have sensory perceptions that human beings do not. I have seen first-hand and via online videos shark species bumping baits and opting not to take them when a thick uncoated wire is used. In my opinion, it is not because they see the wire and become cautious; it is because they sense something metal or magnetic. I have dropped one trace down for Galapagos sharks with 450lb wire and another with a thick, abrasion resistant monofilament. The sharks nosed the wire trace baits and immediately took the mono-biting trace without hesitation. However, if you use a coated wire trace, they will take the bait without a problem. In conclusion, I would always use a coated wire for tope, or a strong, abrasion-resistant mono.
If choosing steel wire, choose a brand like
