The Opinion

We ask top anglers for their opinions on various subjects from the world of match fishing. This month, fishmeal mixes…

Steve Ringer Says Personally I think that you can overcomplicate groundbaits, and particularly fishmeal mixes. In reality, I believe the biggest factor is having confidence in what you are using.

I only really use one or two fishmeal mixes, and unsurprisingly they come from the Ringers’ stable. However, if I had to just pick one, it would be the original Natural Bag-Up Carp Mix. I have used this for years and years and my confidence in the mix is supreme – very important.

It is what I’d label a ‘medium’ strength fishmeal, which means I can use it all year round. I also know that the ingredients are high quality, which all adds to giving me ultimate faith in what I am using.

My only rule of thumb tends to be that when the temperatures drop, try to add another ingredient just to lessen the impact of the fishmeal. Van Den Eynde G5 (as seen in my feature on pages 48 to 52) is a great addition.

Lee Kerry Says

Fishmeal is always an interesting topic. I like to look at it as a bit of an additive. Fishmeal in its purest form is very potent, so getting the right blend in your mix is crucial.

I have found when you use so-called stronger fishmeal groundbaits that the fishmeal definitely triggers a feeding response, but it can be very easy to overdo it.

For that reason the blends in different mixes are designed to help you catch more fish. Mixes such as Sonubaits F1 have a nice blend that isn’t too strong and makes it difficult to overdo it.

Fishmeal groundbait is particularly good for fish such as bream, carp and Hs and I would take it to use anywhere in the world, but understanding its strengths and weaknesses are key to success. Remember, less is more! 

Andy Neal Says

Fishmeal GBs have revolutionised fishing over the last 20 years. We all use them because fish love them.