It is impossible to buy suitable tackle in India so everything must be taken with you. Rods, reels, lines and hooks - everything. We do have sets of spare tackle in camp which can be used in emergency but it is best to take your own. Obviously personal preference is a factor, but the following will give you an idea.

Rods: Your main rod can be an off-the-sheld uptide of about 10 foot casting 6 - 10oz. Fibreglass is tougher than carbon and is also cheaper. At about £30 you can afford to take a spare! A heavy duty carp rod for spinning and also a lighter rod for catching livebait will complete the set.

Reels: The main criteria for reels is that they take a lot of line. You don't have to cast far, but fish make long runs and you don't want to run out! They should be of the highest quality as they have to take a lot of pressure. Multipliers such as Abu Ambassadors are very popular, 7000 and 9000 models. Large fixed spools such as Shimano Aerlex can be used as well.

Line: 40lb plus monofil for your main reel and perhaps braid for spinning. A long fight with a fish can result in line being damaged and it will need to be changed when this happens.

Hooks: 6/0 for the main rod. Owner and Partridge are popular, but anything as long as it is extra strong. The same for hooks on lures. Change them for extra strong even if they are not already fitted.

• A full list of tackle, clothing and other needs is
  always provided for people coming on the trip.