You can think of it in two ways: Extra bolt rig effect with the clip and more stationary bait. More movement without the clip and better for higher feeding fish. I think on different days, you may find different results, so it’s just another ‘trick’ in your armoury. Try using different lengths of hook link and different buoyancy of hook baits also. Floating plastic corn presented inches above the feeder works well in som situations and some days - why? Not really sure. I think sometimes, while it’s nice to have an idea of what the logic ‘should be’, it’s better to just try different things, even if at first logic screams ‘this ain’t right’!