RETRO CHICKPEAS

ONE of the easiest particle baits to prepare, and one that is the ideal alternative to boilies, is the humble chickpea.

The preparation is the same as I use for most particle baits, except tiger nuts, which need to be boiled for longer. All these particles need to be soaked overnight, as they are dehydrated, but this enables them to be easily flavoured and coloured as the additives are drawn right into the bait. This recipe is certainly very retro, but it combines three absolute classic carp-attractors into one awesome bait. Half-fill a large pan with water and add two tablespoonfuls of liquid molasses, which acts as a sweetner. The final carp-attractor that I add is two tablespoonfuls of Marmite, a savoury spread that is a great addition to any bait. After 24 hours bring the pan of bait to the boil and simmer for 10 minutes before turning off the heat and allowing the bait to cool. Three tablespoonfuls of maple syrup are added next – this is a great, very sweet additive that all carp love. Add the chickpeas to the pan – not too many, as they will swell up considerably. You need twice the volume of liquid to the dry peas. Drain off the excess liquid and you will be left with perfectly flavoured, firm chickpeas that will catch you a lot of carp.