Playing carp

Should i use the clutch or backwind when giving line to carp while playing it? Have seen people do both but am told that using the clutch makes your line curl after a while. Is this true? Always use the clutch as this is what im used to, my line does get a bit curly but change it about 3 times a year so shouldnt matter should it?

if you dont use the clutch all the time then you really must get into the habit of using it. Set your clutch at the start of every session especially if you use different spools with different line on it.

The curly line you mention is caused when the Carp (or similar large fish) is taking line from the clutch and you are still trying to wind it in. If the fish is taking line from a properly set clutch then it is doing its job and you shouldnt snap at a knot. The line will be coming off the spool one way and you will be trying to wind it back on in the opposite direction which puts the twist in the line.

instead of changing your line why not just wind it onto a spare spool, then the line that was on the top will now be on the bottom and the line from the bottom will be on the top, effectively giving your line a new lease of life for the second half of the year. (saves money)

Never had a problem with using the clutch. Dont change the line as often and have tried backwinding a couple of times after seeing it on TV but never got the hang of it and kept the carp under control. Dont think it makes a difference using either method its just what feels natural to you and either way if the carps pulling let it have a bit of line.
[i:3mp7ccag]instead of changing your line why not just wind it onto a spare spool, then the line that was on the top will now be on the bottom and the line from the bottom will be on the top, effectively giving your line a new lease of life for the second half of the year. (saves money)[/i:3mp7ccag]
Full of great ideas mate going to use it myself when my line gets old on my new reels.

The line will be coming off the spool one way and you will be trying to wind it back on in the opposite direction which puts the twist in the line.[/quote

This is where i could be going wrong. Sub-conciously i think i maybe doing this sometimes which is why my line slightly curls. Thanks lads will set the clutch lighter and make sure i dont wind in while the carp is trying to take line.
Is it down to choice then over which way you play the carp?

[i:1dgxqjxy]Is it down to choice then over which way you play the carp?[/i:1dgxqjxy]

I'd say yep.

clutch mate. extra effort backwinding imo.