ANGLING IN BANGLADESH

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  • Carp Fishing Tackles in Bangladesh

    Carp Fishing Tackles in Bangladesh

    In angling world Carp fishing is considered as one of the stratum where anglers can use their merits and innovative ideas. Likewise in different parts of the world carp fishing has gained much popularity in the recent years in Bangladesh. The fervor of Angling among the different sects of people has been flourishing in a decent manner. But problem lies with the newcomers when they enter in this arena. As angling in Bangladesh is mostly carp dependent, the newcomer anglers face different kinds of problems in choosing the right tackle with which they go for angling. Side by side not only the newcomers but also some senior anglers are found not to use the right tackle for the right species. This article is about choosing the right carp fishing tackles (Rod and Reel) for the right species.

    Fishing Rods

    Different Parts of a Fishing Rod
    Different Parts of a Fishing Rod

    I am starting my discussion with the fishing rod and this is the basic element for angling. The primary question that rises among the newcomers is, “what kind of rod I should use?” or “which rod should serve my purpose?” This raises two very basic questions among the newcomers and the novice anglers. Those are given below:

    1. What should be the length of the rod and casting weight?
    2. What should be the action of the rod?

     

    Length of the Rod & Casting Weight:

    As this article is focused on the available tackles found in the local marketplace for carps in freshwater, whether it`s river or lake or even a pond, the angler should go for a rod that lengths up to 9 feet or 10 feet. Again, in regard to rod action, the angler should keep in mind what kind of species he is going after. A common problem has been found among the anglers in Bangladesh when they are asked- “what is line capacity of the rod?” or “what is the casting weight of the rod?” They simply can`t answer the questions. Here I am going to show a calculation which might help the new anglers to choose the right rods.

    • 1 ounce equals to 28 grams
    • Line capacity 15(6.8kg)-30(13.6kg) lbs
    • Rod length for example 2702 or 3002 milimeters

    Now from the above calculations, let’s consider a rod where it`s written on it, “the capacity of the rod is 120 gm casting weight (whether lure or bait or it also may be written 2-4 ounce), this means the rod has the ability of casting 120gm of weight. Now, come to the point of line capacity. If on a rod it`s written- “The line capacity of the rod is 15-30lbs” means that breaking strengththe of the line moving through the guides of the rod should be between 15lbs(6.8kg) and 30lbs(13.6kg). The matter of the length of a rod depends on the personal preference of the angler. But to me, I find 2702 milimeters or 9 feet and 3002 milimeters or 10 feet rods quite pleasuring. In case of river fishing, if the angler has a boat then he can use 7 feet or 8 feet rods. Angling Competitions are very popular among the Bangladeshi anglers. They are found to use large baits (Laddus) in these competitions. So in this regard longer rod is very much necessary to serve their purpose and here I would like to say 9 feet or 10 feet rods serve just fine. Even if an angler wishes to go for angling in the river and if he places himself at the river bank then he should use a longer rod.

    rodaction
    Photo credit: www.onfootangler.com

    Another Important feature which I want to discuss is the action of the rod. ‘Rod Action’ is very important. Because, to fight with a big fish whether in a lake, a pond or a river the angler should have to be concerned about it. I have classified the rods into three categories based on the rod action and availability in Bangladesh. These are:

    • Light action
    • Medium action
    • Medium Heavy action

    Light action rods can length up to 7-8 feet with a casting weight of 45-60 grams lure or bait and line ratings are mentioned as 5-13lbs(here 2.2lb equals to 1kg). Medium action rods lengths vary from 8 to 10 feet with a casting weight of 60-80 grams lor 80-100 grams lure or bait and the line ratings are mentioned as 8-17lbs or 10-20lbs. Finally, the medium heavy rods are to fight with large fish and the casting weights of these rods differ from 2-4 ounces to 3-6 ounces and the popular lengths in this category are 9 to 10 feet with line ratings of roughly 15lbs to 30lbs.

    Because of the portability both the telescopic and two-parts rods are frequently used by the angling community of Bangladesh. Again in case of rod material both carbon graphite and glass fiber rods are popular in Bangladesh. Because of difference in rod construction materials, graphite rods are tend to be more priced than the glass fiber ones. Different brands of rods are available in Bangladesh. Among the rods Daiwa, Telepartner, Silstar, Kingfisher, Tica, Pioneer etc are the notable ones. All of these brands of fishing rod have been proved themselves quite satisfactory while fighting with larger and smaller varieties of fish, especially the carps.

    Fishing Reels

    reelssmAfter rod the second and undeniable segment of tackle is reel. To assist a good rod the role of a good reel is unquestionable. There is a common saying in Bangladesh “The more your add sugar in tea, the more it will be sweeter”. However, the performance of a good reel depends on lucrative prices. But the article is all about the tackles which would serve you and help you to choose your tackle. One thing that I would like to add here is the application of minimum input in regards to tackle prices and expectation of maximum output in regards to service of the tackle and mostly in angling. Now before purchasing a reel what are the key points which we should consider are cited below:

    • Spinning or Baitcasting
    • Free spool or Fixed spool
    • Front Drag or Rear Drag system
    • Drag pressure of the reel
    • Number of Ball Bearings
    • Size of the reel
    • Gear Ratio of the reel
    • Fast action reel or Slow Action reel
    spinvsbaitcast
    Spinning reel and Baitcasting reel
    Photo source: insideline.net

    Spinning Reel and Baitcasting Reel: Spinning reels have been well accepted by the anglers of Bangladesh both in the saltwater and freshwater. On contrary to spinning reels, baitcasting reels haven`t achieved that popularity among the anglers like the other parts of the world. The reason that I can say is the maneuverability. Another reason may be the structural pattern of the baitcasting reels. Well, this is not an established thought and the actual cause may be the anglers of this country were introduced by spinning reels before that of baitcasting reels. Other than these reasons, another important reason is that, a spinning reel can be fixed or repaired easily in context to a baitcasting reel. The notable brands of the reels which have flourished in the tackle shops are Tica, Pioneer, Daiwa, Shimano, and Shakespeare. Another important thing is that, except Tica and Pioneer, other mentioned brands are of higher priced. Nowadays, different brands of spinning reels are being imported by the local importers, which are comparatively cheap and serving the purpose of whether seasonal or amateur anglers.

    Free Spool or Fixed Spool: Most of the reels used by the local anglers in Bangladesh are fixed in nature but it has been also found that a few anglers use the free spool reels. The price of the free spool reels are quite higher compared to those of the fixed spooled reels. In regards to the free spooled reels, the pioneer Brand is SHIMANO. Other Brands like Daiwa, Okuma, Kastking etc brands have their free spooled reels. But the matter of fact is, many of these Brands are not available in Bangladesh.

    Drag System and Drag Pressure: The drag system plays the most important part in any reel. The second most important feature that comes right after the Drag System is the Drag Pressure. Yes obviously more or less all anglers know these features, whether it`s a spinning or a baitcasting reel. In a free spool reel there are two drag systems (Primary and secondary and applicable to both saltwater and freshwater fishing). On the other hand both spinning and baitcasting reels have their own style of drag systems. Both front and rear drag spinning reels have been found to be commonly used in Bangladesh. Front drag and rear drag will be discussed in the later point. Now the Drag pressure which is to my opinion has a greater role to play. The drag systems of the reels that we commonly find in our local markets are mostly limited within 6-12lbs depending on the price points. Because of the lower drag pressures sometimes the anglers have to have patience for a longer period of time to fight back larger or even a medium sized fish or even sometimes they lose a fish.

    fdvsrdreels
    Front Drag and Rear Drag Reels
    Photo Source: fly-fishing-tackle.co.uk

    Front Drag or Rear Drag System: The common and a very important question revolves around the mind of a newcomer angler and often they ask- “which drag system (front or rear) should I go for?” My opinion in this instance is simple and that is, “it`s your choice”. But if anyone asks me the same question, my answer will be simple, I would go for a front drag system reel and I have my reasons. These are as follows:

    1. My first reel was a spinning reel and it was equipped with front drag system.
    2. The second reason is the line releasing and the breakage point. In both the cases, the front drag reel places itself in an advantageous position.
    3. Thirdly, during the gear adjustment, front drag remains more close to the maneuvering hand, which gives a front drag reel an advantage over a rear drag reel.

     

    Gear Ratios in a Reel

    Reels can be divided into two categories on the basis of gear ratios. These are:

    1. Fast action reel:
      These reels are mostly used in Bass fishing. Their line retrieving capacity is comparatively higher because their gear ratio is higher. 7:1:1 is higher or faster than 6:1:1 gear ratio reels.
    2. Slow action reel:
      Secondly the reels with slower gears ratios are comparatively much stronger than the fast action reels. For example let’s consider two reels with their gear ratios 4:3:1 and 5:3:1 both represent that they are comparatively slower than above mentioned reels in context to their gear ratios. The reels with slower action will retrieve the lines in a slower manner, but for a novice or newcomers’ perspectives it`s quite hard to differentiate which one is faster.

     

    Ball Bearings and Reel Size

    In tackle shops reels of variety of sizes are found to be purchased by the anglers depending on their needs. Some anglers do prefer large reels and some prefer medium and the rest are seen to use small reels. In Bangladesh 4000 and 5000 series reels are quite popular. For example, these reels can hold on an average of 230 yards of 12lb line with a diameter of .30 mm lines, 14lb of 220 yards of line with a diameter of .32 mm (on a 4000 sized reel). Depending on the spool size these calculations can differ. My point is, before purchasing a reel it will be very wise to read the brochure, which will help the purchaser to understand what he is going to need. A very important point that I would like to mention is that, the bigger is the reel the more line it can hold and side by side it will gain more weight. Big size reels have an advantage for long casting whether in surf fishing in saltwater or from a river bank and these reels have greater drag power. Another feature that I recommend in reels is the amount of bearings. The reels that possess more ball bearings give better performance during maneuvering. Again for float fishing it`s better to use lighter action reels and rods.

    All the discussion as already I have discussed earlier tend to converge at a single point and that is the budget. Budget is the most important and undeniable factor in this regard. Before purchasing the mentioned tackles (Rod and Reel) it will be wise to take a look around the market and setting up the mind. Ask yourself, what I would like to purchase and which tackle will serve my purpose. For an angler the first and foremost thing is to know the tackle he is going to use. To me angling is an art and to make a masterpiece art you have to use the right tools. Simultaneously it`s not about casting at far distances rather about picking up the spot and catching fish. In next article a vivid discussion will be carried upon lines, floaters, terminal tackles, hooks. Hope you have enjoyed the discussion. Tight lines and crying reels…

  • Easy Hookbait for Catla

    Easy Hookbait for Catla

    Catla-catlaIf you are in a tight schedule and you don’t have enough time for going to the bait-shop then you can confidently use this easy hookbait for catla. It works as good as the traditional catla chhatu (ছাতু: particle mix),  maybe even better.

    For Base Mix You Will Need

    1. 1 KG of Field corn (ভুট্টা)
    2. 1/2 KG of Cheak Peas (ছোলা)
    3. 1/2 KG of Fragranced Rice (সুগন্ধী চাউল)

    For Spice Mix You Will Need:

    1. 50 Grams of Pure Ghee (খাঁটি ঘিঁ)
    2. 2 Pieces of Nutmegs (জা‌য়ফল)
    3. 4-5 Pieces of Mace Strands (যৈ‌য়ত্রী)
    4. 10-12 Pieces of Cardamom (এলাচ)
    5. 1/2 Inch of Cinnamon (দারুচিনি)

    You will also need:

    • A Stove (চুলা)
    • A Fry-Pan (কড়াই)
    • A big Bowl (গামলা)
    • A Powder Strainer (ছাকনী)
    • A Spoon for Stirring (চামচ)

    And finally, you’ll also need (the most important of all) ‘Common Sense’. In fact, a lot of it.

    How to Prepare:

    • Alright, if you have collected the above items and if you have a good common sense then we can start.
    • Mildly fry all the Base Mix Items. Fry them carefully so that they don’t burn into black.
    • Thoroughly mix all three items together and grind them into fine powder.
      Separate 1/2 KG of this powder and put it into the bowl.
    • Break the outer shells of the nutmegs and break the inner kernels to tiny pieces.
    • Break the cinnamon into small fragments as well.
    • Now, put the pan on the stove.
    • Put the ghee in the pan and heat it up slowly.
    • Put all the spices altogether in the Ghee and start stirring.
    • Do it in a low heat so that the spices don’t burn.
    • When everything becomes light brown put the separated base mix into the pan and thoroughly stir-mix the powder with the spice-mix.
    • Keep the heat low so that nothing burns.
      When the whole thing is properly mixed and fried, a nice and appealing fragrance would come from it.
    • Stop the stove, put the mix into a big bowl and let the mix cool down.
    • When it is cold enough to comfortably hold with bare hands, slowly rub the mix using your both hands.
    • Do it over and over until the cardamoms, mace and other things get completely smashed.
    • Now with a powder strainer, strain the powder and remove the buckles and other particles.
    • After straining store the mixture into an airtight jar.

    How to Use:

    • Now, take about 1/2 kg of raw Base-Mix in your bait making bowl.
    • Take about 5/6 handful (মুঠো) of the above mixture into it.
    • Mix them thoroughly with your both hands.
    • Add about 3 teaspoons of local liquor, 50 grams of coconut oil and 50 grams of honey into it and mix them very well.
    • Add about 100 grams of ant larvae in it. Just softly mix the ant larvae with your fingers.
    • Don’t smash or break them. Your bait is ready to rock.
  • Battle With a Monster Catla

    Battle With a Monster Catla

    This is a dream fish to every angler. In fact Catla is the most desired fish to catch in this subcontinent. But catching a monster catla is not an everyday matter to be happened. My quest to land a monster catla has ended up with landing this. A true beauty of 32.6 lbs specimen. Hope you’d enjoy the video.

  • Widely Used Spices And Herbs In Bangladeshi Baits

    Widely Used Spices And Herbs In Bangladeshi Baits

    Spices and herbs are integral to the sport fishing in Bangladesh, India and Pakistan. The regions of Himalayan valleys and Ganges-Brahmaputra delta are well known for its wide varieties of flora and fauna. Fish and fishing have paved the lifestyle of the people of these regions. Fishing with rods and reels has always been a favorite pastime activity among the people since long. We have lots of evidence to believe that game fishing and ayurvedic knowledge developed almost at parallel pace.

    It is no wonder that Game Fishing in Indian Subcontinent is a blend of traditional knowledge and modern equipment. We still depend almost entirely on our traditional knowledge for making baits and rigs. It is really a matter of great enthusiasm and hard labor to prepare baits and ground-baits in this part of the world. And the range of ayurvedic herbal stuffs is so vast that it is really tough to choose the perfect ones from them. In this article I would like to briefly elaborate some commonly used herbs and spices and their most active chemical properties. The objective of this article is to help the interested anglers to choose wisely from the long list of spices and herbs extensively used here. I am sure that our Western friends, who mostly depend on bait companies would find this article useful.

    One of the main reasons behind this article is to show our fellow anglers that some of these ingredients contain highly toxic chemicals that are not only harmful for the aquatic animals only but also for those who consume the fish caught using them. Besides, many of the spices and herbs contain almost identical phytochemical properties. That means, use of only one or two of such items is enough rather than using all of them. On the other hand, most of these herbs are actually used for their aromatic properties and they have no or very little nutritional values. And baits extensively loaded with aromatic ingredients rather than nutritional factors have quite a low success rate.

    I must acknowledge that I am highly grateful to Mr. Ali H. Husaini of All India Game Fishing Association for his continuous concerns regarding unethical angling practices we randomly notice here. His ‘Catching an Indian Carp” series is a real milestone for understanding the various olfactory and dietary patterns of major Indian carps. The intention of this article is to help new anglers to choose their bait-ingredients wisely and intelligently and to provide them with an overall idea about how baits and ground-baits of this part of the world work. I acknowledge everyone who helped me to prepare this writing with information and sources. I would highly appreciate if anyone informs me about any misinformation or mistake regarding this piece or just providing with any missing information or suggestion to make this article richer. Thanks and happy fishing.

     A Comprehensive List of Spices and Herbs Used in Game Fishing and Their Phytochemical Properties

     

    Kaempferia galanga
    Kaempferia galanga

    1. Kaempferia galanga
    Common English Name: Resurrection lilly, Sand ginger
    Bengali: একাঙ্গী [Ekangi]

    Kaempferia galanga is the most widely used plant in our local game fishing. It is an essential herb for making almost any type of ground-bait for carp fishing. Rhizomes of this plant are dried and grounded into powder and mixed with other ingredients to prepare ground-baits. It has a very distinct aromatic property. It contains cineol, borneol, 3-carene, camphene, kaempferol, kaempferide, cinnamaldehyde, p-methoxycinnamic acid, ethyl cinnamate, and ethyl p-methoxycinnamate. The plant has a great use in traditional ayurvedic treatments and and some regional cuisines. It has almost identical chemical contents as cinnamon which in addition with borneol, camphene and kaempferol gives its unique fragrance. However it is full of euphoric chemical compounds which cause serious effect in the central nervous systems of the animals.

    It has been found in scientific research that this plant has the highest potential to attract rohu (Labeo rohita) and the second highest potential to attract catla (Catla catla). However, no effect of this plant has been found on mrigala.

     

    Nutmeg & Mace
    Nutmeg & Mace

    2. Myristica fragrans
    Common English: Nutmeg and Mace
    Bengali: জায়ফল ও জৈত্রিক (যৈয়ত্রী) [Jayfal & Jaytrik]

    Both Nutmeg and Mace come from the same plant. Mace is the reddish membrane that covers the actual nutmeg seed inside the fruit of the plant scientifically known as Myristica fragrans. Both the spices have a long historical use in cuisines and medicines. Grounded nutmeg seed is a rich source of camphene. About 60%-80% of all of its chemical properties is camphene which is widly used in the manufacture of fragrances and flavoring ingredient of foods. Camphene is a monoterpene and it has a high explosive property. A low amount of d-pinene, limonene, d-borneol, l-terpineol, geraniol, safrol, and myristicin composition has also been found in nutmeg. Myristicin is a highly potent euphoric chemical. Myristicin is a neurotoxin. Excessive use of nutmeg or mace can cause convulsions, palpitations, nausea, eventual dehydration, and generalized body pain. It is also reputed to be a strong deliriant. For these reasons, nutmeg has been banned in Saudi Arabia.

    Nutmeg and mace have been used traditionally in carp baits for centuries in Bangladesh and the neighboring countries as an aromatic ingridient. But there is no scientific proof of its carp attracting property. However, the grounded nutmeg has a very low amount of saturated fat, vitamin-A, vitamin-B2, carbohydrate, calcium and magnesium. But their portion is so low that it has almost no effect as a feeding stimulant.

     

    Cardamom3. Elettaria cardamomum
    Common English: Cardamom
    Bengali: এলাচ/এলাচি [Elach/Elachi]

    Cardamom is considered as one of the most extensively used spices in the world. Almost in every coulture of the world, it is a must spice to make any kind of exotic food. We have no clue about when cardamom was introduced as a carp bait ingredient. But it can be easily said that the culture was developed nowhere but in this sub-continent for the first time. It is a well proven bait additive in carp angling. Almost 55% of cardamom seeds is carbohydrate. It contains a high concentration of great vitamins like Pirodoxin, Thiamine, Riboflavin, Niacin, Vitamin-A and Vitamin-C. 19% of the mass of the seeds is protein.

    It is a great source of invaluable minerals and electrolytes. Per 100g of cardamom seeds contain 1119mg of potassium. It is rich in minerals like calcium, copper, zinc, iron, magnesium, manganese and phosphorous. Manganese aids in the formation of great digestive enzymes.

    Its essential volatile oils are pinene, sabinene, myrcene, phellandrene, limonene, 1, 8-cineole, terpinene, p-cymene, terpinolene, linalool, linalyl acetate, terpinen-4-oil, a-terpineol, a-terpineol acetate, citronellol, nerol, geraniol, methyl eugenol, and trans-nerolidol. It is a true natural food attractant, feeding stimulant, taste enhancer with lots of benefiting properties.

    All these make cardamom one of the greatest natural carp bait ingredient of all time. Our catla has been found to be highly attracted to cardamom.

     

    Fenugreek
    Fenugreek

    4. Trigonella foenum-graecum
    Common English: Fenugreek
    Bengali: মেথি [Methi]

    Perhaps fenugreek has the oldest bond with mankind. Its usage has been dated back in around 5000 BC in Egypt, Mediterranean and Mesopotamia.

    Fenugreek is advised and used as a carp bait additive all over the world. Major bait companies like CcMoore, Rod Hutchinson are using fenugreek seeds in many of their tournament rated products. However, some suggest that its pungent odor may resemble something that is naturally available as carp diets. Fenugreek seeds have a respectable amount of protein, carbohydrate, vitamins andminerals. About 23%-25% of its body mass is protein, 60% carbohydrate and 2% saturated fat. The whole of seed is composed with great dietary fiber. It is one of the greatest sources of potassium, iron, calcium, magnesium and Vitamin-B6. And series carp anglers know what that means.

     

    Sweet Flag
    Sweet Flag

    5. Acorus calamus
    Common English: Sweet Flag
    Bengali: বচ, বজ, গুড়বচ [Vacha, Baj, Vaja, Gudvacha]

    Sweet Flag has an old history of being used in traditional ayurvedic treatments and perfume production. A limited use in wine industry has also been found. The grunded rhizomes of Acorus calamus are used to make traditional groundbaits in Bangladesh, India and Pakistan. Its essential volatile oil is high in beta-asarone which gives it the distinctive fragrance. Beta-Asarone is a neurotoxin and a base ingredient in perfume production. No notable nutritional ingredient has been found to be in Acorus calamus. Besides, this herb has no scientific evidence of having fish attracting properties.

     

    Cinnamon
    Cinnamon

    6. Cinnamomum zeylanicum
    Common English: Cinnamon
    Bengali: দারুচিনি [Daruchini]

    Cinnamon is one of the most used spices in game fishing around the world. Anglers use the powder and the essential oil of cinnamon in their baits. The main chemical behind the pungent odor and hot and sweet taste of this spice is Cinnamaldehyde. An average of 90% of the essential oil extracted from cinnamon barks is Cinnamaldehyde. However, the use of cinnamon on game fishing is very old and avid carp anglers deliberately advice to use it in baits and ground-baits as a attractant or a flavoring agent. In Indian subcontinent, it is a must ingredient in Catla catla and Labeo rohita fishing baits. But, it is also said that excessive use of cinnamon in baits is fatal because of some of its toxic properties.

     

    Asafoetida
    Asafoetida

    7. Ferula assa-foetida
    Common English: Asafoetida
    Bengali: হিং [Hing]

    Asafoetida is a widely recognised bait ingredient around the world. It is a highly recommended item both in carp and catfish angling. Asafoetida is available in the market in the form of cakes or cubes made from the roots and rhizomes of the asafoetida plant. It is a combination of three basic ingredients available in the plant itself: resin, gum and essential oil. The phytochemical properties of this spice is quite complex. Asafoetida essential oil is a widely used by European anglers. In this region, popular lal bakor and sada bakor contain a significant amount of this spice.

    Asafoetida is used mainly because of its pungent and unique smell. But it has great digestive properties which pre-digest the other items mixed with it (eg: cooked rice, garlic, cheese, oil cake etc.). Thus it breaks down the ingredients into amino acids and enzymes which make the baits readily digested and irresistible to fish. Asafoetida is rich in sulfur which is the reason that it has anti-fungal characteristics. It is a widely used pickling agent and natural preservative. That means it helps the baits or groundbaits to stay good for long and enhances the accessibility to the fishes. However, as asafoetida has very strong and brutal phytochemical properties, it is always advisable to use it moderately.

     

    Juniper Berries
    Juniper Berries

    8. Juniperus Communis L
    Common English: Juniper Berry
    Bengali : আভাল, আওবেল, চুই, আবুবেল [Abhal, Aobel, Chui, Abubel]

    The essential oil of the juniper berries is considered as one of the magic ingredients by the most European anglers while targeting big carps. Many famous bait companies claim that some of their high end baits contain the essential oil of juniper berries. However, we use it as a ground-bait ingredient in this part of the world. The essential oil of juniper berries is not used in hookbaits. But according to avid European carp anglers, it is a highly effective bait attractant to be used with hookbaits. It has a distinctive smell and a bitter taste. Juniper berries are used in wine making industries as a flavoring agent. It’s volatile essential oil contains pinene, myrcene, sabinene, limonene and β-pinene. Some antioxidant properties have been traced in juniper berries. Juniper berries have fish repelling properties as well. And it is always advisable to use it in a very little quantity.

     

    fishberry
    Fish Berry

    9. Anamrita Cocculus
    English: Indian berry, Fishberry,
    Levant nut, Cow killer
    Bengali: কাকলা [Kakla]

    It’s English name ‘Fishberry’ describes quite clearly what it is. The berry shaped fruits of the plant are rich in picrotoxin is a neural toxin. The literary meaning of picrotoxin is ‘a bitter poison’. In some South Asian regions this berries are used in paste and lice control for their toxic behavior. This picrotoxin make the fish stun and for this reason the extracts of Anamrita Cocculus berries is used by many tribal people to catch fish in small streams. Many anglers have advised to used it in hookbaits and ground-baits for catching big Catla catla. It has a unique smell which stimulates human senses. The smell could be appealing as well to many aquatic animals. The powdered seeds are extensively used in traditional ground-baits and hooks-baits as attractant for catching Catla.

     

    Psoralea
    Psoralea

    10. Psoralea corylifolia
    English: Psoralea
    Bengali: বাবুচি, বাগুচি, ভুস্কি, কুষ্ঠনাশিনি [Babuchi, baguchi, Bhuski, Kushthanashini]

    Psoralea is one of the most sought in ayurvedic herbal medicines in this region. It has more than 150 chemical compounds in it’s seeds, rhizomes, leaven and roots and many of them are conventionally used in treating psoriasis, leukoderma, leprosy and cancer. We don’t know how it’s seeds were introduced as fish attractant in Bangladesh and India. But some old Chinese texts have been discovered where the psoralea seeds are being advised as bait ingredient to attract fish. A variety of flavonoids, coumerins and meroterpenes have been isolated to the seeds. Some of these chemicals have given the essential oil of the seeds a distinctive fragrance. Some scientific researches indicate that it has a great effect to attract rohu and mrigal.

    Nagarmotha11. Cyperus scariosus
    English: Umbrella’s edge, Nut grass
    Bengali: নাগরমোথা [Nagarmotha]

    The roots of this tree is used for aromatherapy. The aromatic property of the roots is believed to attract fish. The roots have a little amount of essential oil which causes different stomachic disorders.

     

    Jatamanshi12. Nardostachys jatamansi
    English: Spikenard
    Bengali: জটামাংসী [Jatamansi]

    This plant is a great source of natural perfume. The rhizomes of Jatamansi have been used for thousands of years in making perfumes as well as in many herbal treatments. Jatamansi has been mentioned in many old religious texts including the Old and New Testaments. The essential oil of this plant is one of the thickest available in the nature. It is a well recognized sedative with neuro-chemical behaviours. The powder of the mildly roasted rhizomes is used the groundbaits of carp fishing in this part of the world. The common chemical components found in this plant are nardosinone, aristolen-9beta-ol, nardosinonediol, beta-sitosterol, oleanolic acid, acaciin, octacosanol, ursolie acid and kanshone A etc.

     

    Talmakhani13. Asteracantha longifolia
    English: Marsh barbel, Hygrophila
    Bengali: তালমাখানী, তালমাখানা, কোকিলাক্ষা [Talmahani, Talmakhana, Kokilaksha]

    It is a plant known for its many therapeutic usage. Every part of this plant has been said to have some ayurvedic usage. However, the most common use of Asteracantha longifolia is found in the treatment of impotency. Some scientific researches indicate that this plant has properties that can aid to glucose metabolism in blood. This is the reason it is used in herbal treatments for diabetes.

    We have not much clue why and how the seeds of Asteracantha longifolia have been introduced in game fishing in Indian Subcontinent. But, some suggest that fishes, particularly Indian carps are attracted because of it sedative characteristics. Some claim that fishes are lured to it because it is a sexual stimulant. Whatever the reasons are, it is seen to be used by many great anglers in this region.

    Fennel Seeds
    Fennel Seeds

    14. Foeniculum vulgare
    English: Fennel
    Bengali: মিষ্টি মৌরি

    This is called one of the healthiest foods of the world. Fennel have hundreds both culinary and medical usage. It is one of the spices used in traditional ‘Panch Foron (পাঁচ ফোড়ন)’. It is sweet in taste and it has an invigorating aromatic fragrance. It is a rich source of many of the important vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that are essential for living, growing and reproduction of many aquatic animals. These wonderful seeds contain a good amount of proteins as well which make fennel seeds an ideal and all-season bait ingredient.

    However, lots of renowned anglers around the world have denoted fennel seeds as one of their main secrets. Tim Richardson, one of the most knowledgeable carp anglers of the present time has affirmed in many of his articles that it is an obvious ingredient in most of his baits. In our waters both rohu and catla have been seen to be hypersensitive to fennel. Fennel has been seen to work quite well where all other ingredients fail. Crushed, powdered or essential oil, any form is okay with fennel. However, essential oil extract has the maximum impact in the shortest time.

     

    Anise Seeds
    Anise Seeds

    15. Illicium anisatum
    English: Anise
    Bengali: মৌরি

    Many of us have huge contradictions about anise (Illicium anisatum) and fennel (Foeniculum vulgare). Though both of them are known as “Mouri (মৌরি)” in Bengali, they are different species. We have not found the appropriate Bengali of anise or fennel. But in Sanskrit these two spices have different names. Anise is known as Shatapushpa (শতপুষ্পা), on the other hand fennel is known as Madhurika (মধুরিকা) and Skandhabandhana (স্কন্ধবন্ধনা). Despite of the great similarities between anise and fennel, they are different in color, taste and species.

    Just like fennel, anise seeds are also extensively used around the world to attract fish with baits. It has properties that are highly alluring to fish. For example, around 8-10% of aniseed is highly rich fatty acids and 15-18% of its body mass is protein. It is full of calcium, potassium, riboflavin, Niacin, pyrodoxine and other invaluable vitamins and minerals. Catla, rohu, mrigal and sometimes wallago attu have been noticed attracted to baits composed with a good concentration of aniseed.

     

    Star Anise
    Star Anise

    16. Illicium vernum
    English: Star Anise
    Bengali: ভাদিয়ান [Vadian]

    Unlike anise and fennel, star anise is a well recognized bait component. Interestingly, star anise is not effective in terms of carp fishing only, but many catfish anglers use this spice with equal respect as well. Practicality, we have caught some great sized wallago attu using star anise powder with other bait ingredients.

    Star anise is also a great source of energy, fatty acids, iron, magnesium, potassium, calcium, dietary fiber, vitamins and minerals. It has very distinctive fragrance that is highly attracted to fish. This great spice can be bought as whole or as essential oil. A few drops of star anise essential oil into bait would change its effect dramatically. It is a well recommended ingredient and it really works.

     

    Licorice Roots
    Licorice Roots

    17. Glycyrrhiza glabra
    English: Liquorice
    Bengali: যষ্টিমধু [Yashtimadhu]

    Not many anglers have the experience of using Liquorice into their baits. But, this overlooked herb is indeed a great bait ingredient. Many giant bait – manufacturing companies have gone through extensive experiments with liquorice and have found it a highly effective carp attractant and stimulant. This is what ‘Nutrabaits’, one of the major European bait making companies says about liquorice –

    “This is one of those flavours you will either love or hate, but if you are looking for a proven carp attractor that is totally different and original and might just provide you with a vital edge, this could be for you.”

    However, it is a great natural sweetener. It has great bioactive substances. Glycyrrhizin, glabridin, liquiritigenin and liquiritin are found in the highest concentration in liquorice. Glycyrrhizin is responsible for its sweet taste with is formed by glucose, sucrose and natural sugars. Liquiritigenin and glabridin are in fact phytoestrogens which or female hormone. Female fish and other animals require estrogen to keep healthy reproductive systems. And aquatic animals get it from different plants. And wherever there are female fishes, there tends to be several male fishes as well. Liquiritin is a great antioxidant and it’s a natural yellow colour. Catla has been found highly attracted to yellow coloured baits.

  • The Basics of Carp Additives and Stimulants

    The Basics of Carp Additives and Stimulants

    Korda Bait Glug or Goo
    Korda Bait Glug
    Courtesy: Korda

    The bait related discussions are always appealing to a dedicated angler. And perhaps, carp baits are the most diverse and most spoken topic in terms of game fishing. However, we use different types of stimulating ingredients in our regular baits and ground-baits to catch different carps. We use many kinds of additives and stimulants to enhance the potentials of our baits. These additives or stimulants are different in smells, colors, textures and forms. Some are liquids while some are plain powders. Some are odorless and some have very strong and pungent odors. There are based on alcohols, proteins, acids, enzymes, particle and what not.

    Most of the carp additives and stimulants are used in combination with the main hook-baits or as an auxiliary ingredient in ground-baits. Almost all the additives that we use in fishing have two basic properties; attracting and stimulating. Their main purposes are either attracting fish toward the baits or stimulating the fish to take baits into their mouths. Haria(fermented rice), lal bakor/sada bakor (fermented rice mixed with asafoetida, garlic, mustard seeds and many other herbs and ingredients) ghee(milk butter), many essential oils, fermented coconut or cheese and many other ingredients are used in this subcontinent in carp fishing.

    Annatto Seed Oil
    Annatto Seed Oil

    But, what are these additives actually? What are the fundamental chemistry behind them? What makes them irresistible or highly effective? Why some of them work better with some specific species while some don’t at all? I think these questions are very common in every dedicated angler. And in my honest opinion, these very basic questions should be discussed with the highest emphasis and more frequently than those of simple bait recipes. This kind of discussions are vital to help other fellow anglers, particularly for the beginners to understand different feeding patterns which we find in carp fishing. A good understanding in these basics would significantly help others to design their baits more effectively, intelligently and economically.

    Bangshi River Catla
    Catla caught from the Bangshi river

    It is a well known fact among the carp anglers around the world that carps have a strong attraction toward predigested baits. Predigested baits are high in nutrients and enzymes that make them irresistible for fish. Nutrients can be regarded as an well balanced composition of vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, fatty acids and most importantly proteins in the form of different amino acids. Enzymes are nothing but living organisms that help digestion of foods consumed by fish. And we have the knowledge of culturing enzymes and with the help of these organisms readily digest foods for fish before their consumption. These types of foods are known as predigested foods. Carps of all kinds simply love these kinds of foods.

    Carp digestive system requires a standalone article to be elaborated. But briefly, carps don’t have any stomach as we do to digest our foods. They have a glandular which is sometimes called as stomach. But its functions are quite different to a typical stomach. However, carps have extremely sophisticated organs to differ between edible and non-edible items. They are really masters in detecting different tastes and smells. But most importantly, they can even detect how much nutrition is contained in a particular food. And this nutritional value is the most important factor that drives them to go after any food. They will (in most cases) not go after any food if they find that particular food would provide them with the less amount of energy in comparison with the energy spent to get and digest it.

    Here comes the idea of predigested baits to attract them, even in most inverse situations like cold winter. Their foods are digested inside their intestines and the process of digestion is done by various helping bacteria that we refer to as enzymes. These enzymes break down the consumed foods into proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins etc which are highly important for fish.

    Things that we ferment in order to use as baits are unquestionably superior in nutritional value than those of raw items. Fermented rice, coconut, cheese (and other things that require to go through a fermentation process) have readily available carbohydrates, enzymes, starches and most importantly essential amino acids which provide carps with all the necessary ingredients for living. And carps have super sensitive receptors all over their bodies to detect these life supporting items. Some of us have a wrong idea that carps are only stimulated or attracted by the aromatic properties of their baits or ground-baits. And most of their baits are loaded with different types of exotic aromatic herbs, spices or chemicals but with a very low nutritional value. In situations like this, fish might come into the point but hardly they would take the baits into their mouths. Sometimes, the exaggeration of herbal or spicy properties of their baits make the fish suspicious and they eventually mark the baited area as dangerous.

    What I want to say is that, there are more important factors other than the fragrance which make the fish to take baits. For instance, I can say about the essential amino acids. Fish can detect even a few molecules of amino acids from a respectable distance. As stated above, enzymes are living organisms and very important for fishes for various reasons. They convert their foods into proteins (amino acids), carbohydrates etc and help them to sustain. However, any food source that is rich in amino acids and enzymes are highly desirable to them. And fishes follow the tail-tail signs of enzymes carried away by the water. These living organisms give the fishes with the signal that there is a deposit of food supply with high nutritional value.

    The scope of this writing is to share some fundamental principles of fish dietary requirements. There are tons of materials all over the internet with detailed information on species-specific feeding patterns of fishes. There are more important and interesting factors out there to learn and understand about fishes and fishing than wasting time energy and money searching for some sorts of magic ingredient or secret recipes that have the supernatural power to draw all the fishes of any given water. Because, there is none. But believe me, fishing is pretty much like basic algebra. All that you need to learn are the basic equations in order to go further.

  • Bait Sling : Perfect Solution for Deep Water Groundbaiting

    Bait Sling : Perfect Solution for Deep Water Groundbaiting

    http://www.anglinginbangladesh.com/
    Bait Sling

    Most long range anglers have faced the problem of placing groundbaits to their desired spots. Particularly, when the groundbaits are composed with particles and it must be sent to a good distance. Conventional groundbaiting methods permit us to put the groundbaits not more than 30 to 50 meters at best. But it is really a problem in situations like a large water-body where bigger fishes roam in deeper water or in a competition where success depends highly on distance and accurate groundbaiting.

    Some may bring out different ideas like multiple-hooks (Jhunka Kata), treble hooks, catapults, PVA bags and many more. But none of the methods works for a distance of more than 60 meters. In most situations, groundbait balls break into pieces while throwing. Groundbaiting with boats can be a solution. But what in a situation where there is no boat around? Catapults also have their limitations. If we intend to use a catapult to throw our groundbait balls of standard size, say 60mm in dia, it would be huge in size and its portability and cost would be a big issue.

    I have been looking for a workable and universal solution to this problem for quite long. In my consideration, the solution must be effective both in application and cost, portable and most importantly it must put my groundbait balls to a distance of more than 100 meter if required, and of course without breaking it up into pieces. Some may suggest to keep the groundbait balls small. But everyone knows that a standard ball of groundbait would be of a size of a tennis ball and would weigh about 150 to 200 grams.

    Some may bring up the concept of groundbaiting using treble hooks. But, it is very time consuming. Imagine of throwing 25/30 balls of groundbaits. Making balls, putting into hooks, throwing to the desired distance and retrieving the line. It consumes about three minutes for each successful throwing. About one hour for 20 balls of groundbaits. Besides, we must snag the hooks out of the groundbait-balls. This way, it is impossible to get the work done without breaking the consistency of the ball.

    http://www.anglinginbangladesh.com/
    Photo Courtesy: www.carprusdirect.com

    Finally, I have come across “Bait Sling” which amazingly solves all my problems. Bait Sling requires almost no cost at all, it can be made easily at home and it is highly effective. One can throw his groundbait balls more than 120 meters or more without breaking it. People have successfully sent their groundbaits to a distance of 160 meters in this method. It is simple and time saving. It is a wonderful solution for beach fishing, when it is required to chum a distance of more than 100 meters. One can adapt the method with a very little practice and take his angling experience to a new level. Here is a link of an idea how to make the Bait Sling out of a coke bottle in about 5 minutes:

    http://www.sealine.co.za/view_topic.php?id=25119&forum_id=72

    The following YouTube video demonstrates wonderfully how it works.

    [youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tauH312fwAs[/youtube]

     

  • Some Actions of Fighting a Great Catla

    Some Actions of Fighting a Great Catla

  • Annatto, the Secret Ingredient of Catching Giant Catla

    Annatto, the Secret Ingredient of Catching Giant Catla

    Bixa orellana
    Bixa orellana

    Bixa orellana L, also known as annatto, roucou or achiote, is derived from the seeds of the achiote trees of tropical and subtropical regions around the world.

    These seeds have been used by many dedicated and extreme anglers since distant past while targeting Catla catla. Bixin and Norbixin, two of the major chemical compounds found in Bixa Orellana are few of the best chemical compounds for attracting Catla catla. It is the actual secret behind the landing of some record sized Catlas both in Bangladesh and India.

    Additionally, some carotenoids available in annatto are highly efficient as colouring or clouding ingredients as well as for making a swift impact in the water. Some edible oils are highly soluble and they spread very fast in water.

    Bixa orellana grows widely in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. Mexico, Colombia and Brazil are the highest producing countries of annatto. They grow around some of the Himalayan regions, Cambodia and Phillipines in Asia.

    For any true and dedicated catla hunter, Bixa orellana is a must have ingredient in the groundbait. TEAM A.I.B. has gone through an extensive research on Bixa orellana and found some great success in hunting catlas in different water conditions.

  • Fly Fishing in Bangladesh Explained

    Fly Fishing in Bangladesh Explained

    www.anglinginbangladesh.com
    Typical Fly Fishing
    photo courtesy: https://therepublicofless.files.wordpress.com

    Since the posting of my last article on Prospects and possibilities of Fly Fishing in Bangladesh, I am getting mixed response from the fellow angler friends. Some of my friends have already disbursed the concept from the perspectives of Bangladesh and some are calling this a madness.

    Many of them have found it very exciting and have encouraged me with their notes and comments to give it a try. I thank everyone who read the previous article about possibilities of fly fishing in Bangladesh; in broader sense, the whole of the Indian Subcontinent.

    www.anglinginbangladesh.com/Well, it is true that no one or a very few have ever practiced fly fishing in Bangladesh before. To some friends fly fishing in Bangladesh is in their wildest nightmares. In this subcontinent (except some of the Himalayan regions), we basically think of rohu, catla, mrigal and some species of cats for game fishing. We do not have those trouts or salmons in our streams, even we have not many areas with fast flowing rocky streams. From all perspectives and generally speaking, Bangladesh is not a place for fly fishing. But wait, a madman does what a madman does think of or vice versa.

    We know, a good portion of fish dietary comes from many aquatic insects. From simple flies to grasshoppers, from underwater nymphs to caterpillars; the range is huge. So, what is the problem if we target them with the insects they live on.

    Targeting carp with flies could be disheartening. And carp fishing, particularly our carps may not take artificial flies at all. And I don’t know if targeting carps could even be considered as fly fishing in any way. Because, in general, fly fishing is about casting over and over in a certain area, lots of movements in and out of water, sometimes on boats blah blah blah and all the opposite things that we practice for carps. So, I want to exclude carps and saltwater species from my list in this article.

    Possible Fly Fishing Method in Bangladesh.
    Possible Fly Fishing Method in Bangladesh.

    Let’s take a look at the other common freshwater species. Particularly those with a reputation of being relatively aggressive and territorial. On top of the chart comes the wallago attu, snakeheads, and murrells. All of them are well known for their ferocious behaviour and they always give a hell of a fight if threatened, attacked or hooked. They would give an angler the thrill of fighting a monster because they can grow in unimaginable sizes. They are the predators of all the freshwater fishes. But, what does fly fishing have to do with these predators? The answer is that they attack almost everything that moves, falls, jumps and even flies around them. Be it a minnow a frog or a small fly.

    There is a small nomadic tribal community called ‘Bede’ in my village where I was born and raised. People of this community live with their families on boats. Their births, growing ups, marriages and deaths- everything is circulated to the boats they live in. Their males are engaged in hunting and fishing. From my experience, I can tell that these people are masters in making bird traps and spears for fishing. To me, these people are the real masters of spearfishing as well.

    From the middle of September to the end of March, they set around with their dinghies at night for spearfishing. In Bangladesh, the technique is called light fishing because of its nature.

    The procedure is very simple. It requires a minimum of two people. One for slowly and gently rowing the boat without making any noise or disturbance in the water. The other man keeps standing on the other end of the boat holding a spear. The man with the spear gives directions to the other man with gestures for rowing the boat slower or faster or moving right or left. A strong lantern is hung on the tip of the boat and a shade or cover is placed behind the lantern to reflect the maximum amount of light to the front water for the better visibility as well as to prevent the fish from seeing the man standing behind the light source. Just imagine a boat with a headlight.

    Angling in BangladeshBesides, village people sometimes come out at night to fish with spears. It is a very common scene in Bangladeshi villages to see that many people are walking alongside the edges of the rivers or canals with torches in one hand holding a spear with the other looking very carefully and silently for the treasures to hurt. Targets are wallago attus, snakeheads, murrells, barbels, climbing perches, chitals etc.

    And the sizes of their catches have always made me jealous and envious. But the concept of fishing with spears makes me feel sick. It is very disgusting to see a beautiful fish wounded to death by the brutality of spears. It is very inhuman. Sometimes fish escape with severe wounds which makes it significantly uncivilized. But what if we combine the light-fishing methods with fly-fishing? What if we go after those monsters of the darkness with a fly, combined with a minimum of 20 lbs braided line and a set of strong fly rods or reels?

    You might have already known that big predators come near the surface and in shallow water in search of food at night. Besides, they are attracted to the light sources for the fallen insects. A strong and concentrated light also gives great visibility into water. I am not good at all at drawing or sketching, so please don’t laugh. I have tried to demonstrate the concept of fly fishing in Bangladesh with the attached drawings (if you say they are drawings). I am really curious to know what you are thinking now. Isn’t it madness? Madness for a real thrilling adventure and a rush of adrenal?

  • Groundbait Recipes for Carp Fishing

    Groundbait Recipes for Carp Fishing

    Ground BaitWe are frequently asked by the beginners about groundbait recipes for carp fishing in Bangladesh, especially for species like rohu, catla and mrigal. Most of the good anglers basically keep a variety of alternatives for their groundbait preparation to fit in different conditions which is actually one of the biggest secrets of their higher success rates compared to general anglers or the beginners.

    We love angling and we deeply want other fellow anglers, especially the beginners to equally enjoy the game of angling alongside the experts. But it is difficult to carry on with a passion if there is a very low success rate. A frequent catching gives confidence to novices which is significantly important to go on with the passion for angling.

    To help you we are going to provide you with different groundbaits and hookbaits recipes. The following groundbait is the base of the most groundbaits being used around this subcontinent for local carps. It works for almost all of the carp species of our country.

    There are hundreds of ingredients anyone may use for their baits or groundbaits. But my personal preference is to keep it simple and straightforward. Because if you use very complex recipes at the beginning, it is very much possible that you are going to miss some great catches. Because fishes are blessed with the strongest senses in the whole animal kingdom. And groundbaits are in fact mixtures of different herbs and other components. The herbs provide the necessary chemical compounds and edible oils to trigger the senses of the fish to come around your spot. That is why it is very important to highly maintain the accuracy of the measurements of the ingredients. A small change in the measurements of the ingredients may alter the purpose of the baits or groundbaits. Therefore more ingredients require more careful measurements. For the beginners the possibility of making mistakes is very high. So, it is always a good practice to start with a simple approach. The possibilities for improvements are limitless. More you research and experiment with different ingredients, the more you will understand the secrets of successful angling.  You are welcome to share with us if you have developed your own version of groundbait or hookbait recipes. Well, enough with the lecture. Let’s have a look at the basic ingredients of our groundbait.

    Ingredients:

    1. 1 kg of oil cake (খৈল)(roasted )
    2. 1 kg of the left over of pure ghee ( ঘি এর ছাকা)
    3. 1.5 kg of left over of sweetmeats (মিস্টির গাদ)
    4. 250 gram lesser galangale (একাঙ্গি) powder (roasted)
    5. 10 gram cardamom (এলাচ) powder (roasted)
    6. 100 gram anise (মৌরি) powder (roasted )
    7. Half kg soybean oil
    8. 5 grams of mace powder (যৈয়ত্রী)
    9. 2 pieces of nutmegs (জায়ফল) powder

    Preparation:

    First make fine powder with the oil cake and then fry them on a pan. Don’t burn them frying. Just fry until it becomes light brown. Do the same to the leftover of ghee. Mix these two items very well rubbing with both hands in a big bowl. This is our base mix. Now mix all the spices in a different bowl similarly by rubbing them with your hands. Take a handful of spice mixture and spread them over the base mix and using both of your hands mix spaces very well. Follow this procedure until all the spices are mixed well with the base mix. We will call this mixture as dry mix. Now, divided your dry mix in two parts and put them in two separate bowls. Slowly stir mix half of the dry mix well with the sweetmeat left over (মিস্টির গাদ ).

    Carefully check the consistency of the mixture. The final product will be as hard as a tennis ball. Mix some dry mix if it is too loose or mix some sweetmeat left over if it is too hard. When you are finished with it, warm the soybean oil on a pan in slow temperature. You may add some pure ghee with it as well. After warming the oil spread it over the mixture using a spoon. Make sure that oil reaches all the mixture equally. Now keep them under a fan until it becomes cold. Your groundbait is ready. Keeping groundbaits fresh and active is a tricky and laborious job. After cooling of the groundbait store them in a dry and clean container.

    Moisture is the number one enemy to all kinds of groundbaits. You must preserve your groundbaits well and feed them with the sunlight regularly for at least 15 days after its preparation. Alter the sides of the groundbaits using a clean stick or something after each 2/3 days. This will vaporize most of the moisture of the groundbait. Carefully wipe out the moisture of the lid and wall of the container with a dry cloth regularly. When you go for fishing, take 50% of the groundbait and 50% of dry mud in a bowl. Mix them well and make tennis sized balls with the mixture and throw them in your desired spot before setting lines. Hope, you would find this recipe very useful and don’t forget to drop us a few lines to let us know if you find this recipe useful.

    Tight lines and crying reels.