Netting Baits by David Keep

Crayfish are not uncommon on French carp waters - in fact their presence often increases the chances of the carp growing very large because they eat them.  They can however, be a nightmare for the angler, completely eating your hook bait in a matter of hours.  They seem particularly attracted to fishmeal baits so using a "non-fishy" base mix and flavour does help.  Alternatively you could try Tiger Nuts - they seem to escape uneaten.  However, if fishmeal is your choice then here's an approach you could try - securing fine netting around your hook bait i.e. "Netting" your baits.  The Crayfish can't get through to your boilie and it doesn't harm the carp because they never get to digest your hook bait.  It doesn't seem to put them off either - I've caught numerous carp using netted boilies.

You'll need some fine mesh netting.  I bought mine from The Tackle Box, Kent, around 3 years ago.  I got loads of the stuff for a few quid and it's still going strong!  I think similar netting is sold to keep birds off garden crops.  Basically it's the stuff that's used to make children's fishing nets.

Follow the steps below for netting baits.

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