Mastering the Preston ICS and ICM System for Method & Bomb Fishing

Whether you’re on a commercial fishery targeting hard-fighting F1s or hefty carp, the Preston Innovations Interchange System (ICS) and Internal Interchange Method (ICM) offer next-level versatility and precision. These systems streamline feeder changes, provide presentation consistency, and enhance rig performance—especially when paired with the right hook lengths, baits, and tactics.

🔁 What is the ICS and ICM System?

  • ICS (Interchange System): Allows anglers to change feeders or leads without cutting the mainline. Feeder stems, method feeders, in-line bombs, and more simply clip in and out of the central stem—ideal for adjusting tactics mid-session.
  • ICM (Internal Interchange Method): A more compact version of the ICS, perfect for short-range or delicate presentations, especially for F1s and winter fishing. The ICM system is internal and discreet—less disruption, more bites.

🎯 Inline vs Elasticated Versions

  • Inline Feeders (used with ICS or ICM): Offer direct contact with the fish—ideal for delicate F1s where you want to see quick bites. These work great when the fish are feeding confidently and clean bites are expected.
  • Elasticated Feeders: Often preferred for carp fishing, especially on snaggy or pressured venues. The built-in elastic acts as a buffer during the fight, reducing hook pulls and allowing lighter hooklengths.

Tip: Use the Preston Dura Banjo or Method Feeder in inline mode for short F1 sessions, and switch to elasticated versions when carp are on the cards.

🧵 Best Hooklengths and Hook Sizes

Hooklengths and hooks can make or break your feeder rig. Here’s a tried-and-tested setup:

F1 Fishing:

  • Hooklength: 3 to 4 inches fluorocarbon or light mono (0.11–0.13mm)
  • Hook Size: Size 16 or 18
  • Hook Pattern: Wide gape with a fine wire (e.g., PR36 or GPM-B)

Carp Fishing:

  • Hooklength: 4 to 6 inches (0.15–0.19mm fluorocarbon or strong mono)
  • Hook Size: Size 12 to 14
  • Hook Pattern: Strong, wide-gape pattern like Preston’s KKM-B or QM1 for aggressive hook holds

🍬 Loading the Feeder: Micros vs Groundbait

Micro Pellets

  • Ideal For: F1s and carp in warmer months
  • Prep Tip: Soak 2mm pellets for 1–2 minutes, then drain and let them rest for 20 minutes to soften
  • Benefit: Offers minimal breakdown, keeping fish grubbing around the feeder longer. Pellets also match the hatch on commercial venues.

Groundbait

  • Ideal For: Winter or when you need attraction without feeding heavily
  • Top Mixes: Sweet fishmeal blends like Sonubaits F1 or Green Swim Stim
  • Benefit: Creates a cloud of attraction—pulls fish in without overfeeding. Perfect in tough conditions or when fish are cagey.

Combo Tip: Use a 50/50 blend of softened micros and groundbait in a method feeder for both attraction and feed value.

🎯 Hookbaits – Wafters, Bandums & More

Hookbaits are critical for feeder fishing, especially when you’re relying on quick bites. Here’s what’s working:

  • Bandums / Wafters (6mm–8mm):
    • Best For: Carp and F1s alike
    • Flavours: Scopex, pineapple, krill, or fishmeal-based options
    • Setup: Band them on a bait band or spike using a bayonet or quickstop
  • Mini Boilies / Dumbells:
    • Great in summer for selective feeding
    • Pairs well with the elasticated method feeder for bigger carp

Hookbait Tip: Use a wafter that’s just buoyant enough to counteract the hook weight—this ensures your bait sits naturally above the feeder and is taken first.

🔄 The Versatility of the ICS System

What truly sets the Preston ICS apart is how adaptable it is:

  • Switch between method, banjo, bomb, and hybrid feeders without re-rigging.
  • Adjust weight and presentation in seconds—perfect when fish move up in the water or start sulking.
  • Add quick-change stems for even faster rig transitions.

🧠 Final Thoughts

The Preston ICS and ICM feeder systems are a game-changer for modern feeder anglers. Whether you’re fishing short for F1s or casting long for carp, the ability to adapt, stay stealthy, and keep bites coming is second to none.

With the right hooklengths, bait combos, and a well-loaded feeder, you’re setting yourself up for match-winning bags.

Tight lines and happy feeder fishing! 🎣