OK, so you have made a few batches of doughball to try out and you might be wondering what�s the best way to fish doughball. Well pay attention, this is where it gets complicated. Tie on the hook (size 10 to size 1 can be used) of your choice to your main line, mold the doughball around and adequately cover the entire hook, and then cast out. That�s it.

I prefer to freeline with just doughball on the hook with no other weight whenever the situation permits, such as at paylakes. If there is a strong current where you are fishing or you want to cast out further, then the minimum weight required can be used in the form of a slip sinker (egg or bell style) held in place a foot or so above the hook with a small split shot or an in-line swivel. With a normal fishing rod (6 to 7 ft. in length), when you get a strike or a run you have to quickly swing the rod backwards to set the hook. If you are out a good distance (40 or more yards), it may also help to step or run backwards a few steps when you swing to help take the slack out of the line quicker. If you are using one of them long British rods, you can still swing to set the hook, just not as hard as with a normal rod. Of course, there will be times when the carp will run and hook itself, but a swift twitch of the fishing rod is still recommended to securely set the hook.

If you prefer, float fishing is also another method where doughball can be effective. There are those who may want to use doughball as hookbait with a hair rig. This can be done by molding the dough ball around the maize or boilie, etc. that is on the hair. Or the doughball can be molded around an object such as a plastic bead, button, or whatever, secured to the hair. You can�t go wrong with keeping it simple though, just mold the bait on the hook and cast out.

The main thing is to experiment with doughball recipes and come up with a doughball that is the right consistency and texture for the conditions, methods, and carp you are fishing for. It is a good idea to keep a small amount of flour or oats with your other tackle in case your doughball is not quite right (too wet, won�t stick together) and needs some doctoring up while fishing.

Those that are newcomers to carp fishing may have been introduced to it or became interested because of all the elaborate, hi-tech European equipment and may have never used doughball or was aware it existed. If so, you do not know what you are missing. I�ve given you plenty of recipes to try out. Give doughball a go. It�s simple and it works. For the experienced doughball carp anglers and all others, hopefully I�ve provided you with something different to try.

From the NACA

Steve L., Pennsylvania Paylaker

---

Return to the Baits Page

Hosted by www.Geocities.ws