Take Tackle Max Basket
Years ago, when I first promoted the use of a shooting basket for huchen fishing, it was met with skepticism. Now, the use of shooting baskets, especially my preferred Take Tackle shooting basket, is standard practice among dedicated huchen fly fishers. The advantages of this truly versatile tool are simply too numerous. My go-to fly fishing tool, which practically "lives" in my car trunk, has now been joined by a larger version. This new version isn't excessively large, which would make it difficult to handle; instead, its height, width, and shape have been subtly but effectively adapted.
The standard version I've been using can be employed in all situations (not just for streamer fishing!), while the larger Max Basket is particularly beneficial for pike, huchen, and sea trout anglers, as well as saltwater fly fishers on boats. It offers clear advantages, especially in windy conditions, cold weather (which can lead to stiffer lines and running lines), and when using heavier line weights. Since the modifications were designed so that the shooting basket doesn't appear too bulky, it's my top recommendation for the aforementioned use! Of course, I have meanwhile been upgrading the new version with additional spikes (Ahrex Flexipegs Spare Spikes), too.
