In coarse fishing, bait and groundbait often make more difference than any other piece of tackle. In this category you will find groundbait for feeder, method, match and float fishing, pellets and hookbaits, particles, doughs and natural baits, plus liquids and additives. The range is organised by type of bait, so your groundbait and hookbaits are easy to find in one place.
A good session starts with drawing fish into your swim and keeping them there. Groundbait is the foundation of that job. Feeder and method mixes are dampened so that they stay in the feeder during the cast and only break down once they reach the bottom. Match and float groundbaits are usually finer and create a cloud in the water that pulls fish in under the float.
Pellets play a big part in method fishing and on commercial-style waters. Small feed and micro pellets work well mixed into the groundbait, while wafters, hook pellets and mini boilies are made for the hook. A wafter sinks slowly and settles lightly on the bottom, which makes it easier for a wary fish to pick up.
Natural baits are the classic choice. Worms and maggots will tempt almost every cyprinid species as well as perch, while corn, doughs and pastes are good options for bigger fish such as bream, tench and carp. Particles and seeds, hemp for example, keep fish grubbing around in the swim for a long time and hold them on the spot.
Liquids and additives let you fine-tune the smell, taste and texture of both groundbait and hookbaits. A flavour can give a standard mix its own character, and powder additives change the colour, binding or breakdown speed of the groundbait to suit the water and the conditions on the day.
It pays to carry a few different hookbaits. When the fish turn fussy, switching from worm to corn or from a pellet to a wafter can change the whole day. Match the size of the bait to the fish you are after and keep the loose feed going little and often.