Experiment with liquids

Although the hookbait is important, the actual payload is vital. My biggest edge is something that I never see carp anglers using – Dynamite Baits’ Green Swim Stim range. These baits are deadly on all waters. I think it is the combination of colour, flavour and attractors in the Swim Stim range that drive the carp crazy. Into a bucket I mix a combination of 1mm and 2mm Green Swim Stim pellets, some 2mm Red Krill pellets and a few 3mm and 4mm Marine Halibut pellets. The larger the pellets, the fewer I add, as too many larger items will affect the breakdown rate and cause the payload to explode in the air during the cast as it won’t bind to the feeder as well. The pellets need to be moistened, just like the match boys do it, so that they turn sticky and will adhere to the feeder. As well as lake water, I love to use lots of liquid attractants. I add the liquids to the soaking water, not directly on to the pellets, as this gives a better flavour distribution. I prefer sweet flavours in cool water conditions, so I use a generous glug of Dynamite’s new Sweet Tiger Liquid Carp Food. This adds an impressive cloud in the water as well as producing a mass of flavour, taste and attraction. Next is a squirt of Evolution Citrus Oil. The oil will rise to the surface, pulling fish down as well as producing a slick on the surface. The final liquid is XL Pineapple as all carp love pineapple. This isn’t PVA-friendly, but works brilliantly with the Method. For me, it is confidence in a bottle. All that said, though, use as many or as few as you want and see what works for you on your local water.

Steve lines up his casts with a permanent far-bank marker for accuracy

Measuring sticks and clipping up his reels ensure Steve casts the same distance every time