Possibly not what you want to hear but I recommend a single small halibut pellet (10mm or smaller) banded to a size 10.
Agree the fish oils may not disperse quite so well in cold water but on most rivers so many fish recognise these as food that you are halfway there. Establishing a new bait in on a cold river in winter is honestly not a great idea
Most importantly , carry a flask of very hot water with you and dip the pellet in it for a few seconds before casting. It breaks up the surface of the pellet and frees up the attractors so that it is much more appealing than a smooth oil-bound pellet straight out of the packet. Include a very few mini (3mm) pellets in a PVA bag or a tiny feeder and cast once only. If possible use a long hooklength (mono rather than braid)and hit taps on the rodtop.
When you leave chuck a few pellets in so that the fish are ready for them next time. Finally I would say its important to enjoy your fishing - however effective your baits and tactics, slogging it out on a cold Northern river for barbel can get seriously dispiriting. If conditions are against you go for the chub and grayling then when the conditions turn you will fish much more confidently. Good luck
Agree the fish oils may not disperse quite so well in cold water but on most rivers so many fish recognise these as food that you are halfway there. Establishing a new bait in on a cold river in winter is honestly not a great idea
Most importantly , carry a flask of very hot water with you and dip the pellet in it for a few seconds before casting. It breaks up the surface of the pellet and frees up the attractors so that it is much more appealing than a smooth oil-bound pellet straight out of the packet. Include a very few mini (3mm) pellets in a PVA bag or a tiny feeder and cast once only. If possible use a long hooklength (mono rather than braid)and hit taps on the rodtop.
When you leave chuck a few pellets in so that the fish are ready for them next time. Finally I would say its important to enjoy your fishing - however effective your baits and tactics, slogging it out on a cold Northern river for barbel can get seriously dispiriting. If conditions are against you go for the chub and grayling then when the conditions turn you will fish much more confidently. Good luck
