A Complete Guide to fishing with maize

Freshwater fishing has commonly involved maize as one of its prime baits to catch fish, particularly among those targeting carp. The fact that it is versatile, affordable and works well makes it popular with both amateurs and professionals. If you are using flaked maize, whole maize or the increasingly popular maple maize for instance, knowing how to prepare and use maize can go a long way towards improving your angling success. Different types of maize used in fishing, how they are prepared and ways through which their attraction to fish can be enhanced will be looked at in this guideline.

Types of Maize for Fishing

There are several forms that maize comes in each with its own peculiarities as well as benefits. Here is a detailed breakdown of the primary types of maize that are used when fishing:

Flaked Maize

Flaked maize refers to flattened and dried corns which have been made into flakes. It is often included as part of groundbait or pellet mixes due to its slow breakdown with water such that attractants are released over time. Flaked maize creates an area for feeding fish effectively thus making it ideal for long periods of angling. Its preparation and mixing with other bait isn’t too difficult either.

Whole maize is the most common form of maize used in fishing. It looks bright yellow and hard, which is attractive to fish particularly carps. The whole maize can be used by itself or mixed with other baits and its size makes it good for targeting bigger fishes in the water bodies. When properly prepared, whole maize can be a long-lasting bait that will last through a number of casts.

Maple Maize

Maple maize as its name suggests is made from corn flavored with maple syrup or some other sweetener. This enables it to attract more fish, especially those that have a sweet tooth like bream and carp. The natural taste of maize combined with maple’s sweetness has always been irresistible bait to many species of fish including carp and bream. By themselves or in combination with other baits, you could use maple maizes as an interesting mix while going fishing.

Preparing Maize for Fishing

To make the most out of your bait from corns, one must do proper preparation work on them. This is how you can prepare each type of corn for angling:

• Flaked Maize: Flaked maize is quite easy to prepare. Just wet it a little bit with water several hours before when you go for fishing. It also works well when mixed with other groundbaits or pellet mixes. The flaked maize should not be too dry, because it has to break down slowly in the water.
• Whole Maize: Whole maize needs more preparation in order to make it edible and safe for fish. First, soak the maize in water for at least one day. After soaking, boil the maize for 30-60 minutes until it is tender but still firm. This boiling helps release natural sugars in the maize that are more attractive to fish. Once boiled, the maize can be used immediately or stored in an air tight container and reserved for later use.
• Maple Maize: Preparing maple maize follows a similar process as whole maize. Add maple syrup or any such sweetener into the water you use to soak your corns for 24 hours. After soaking, boil the maize for 30-60 minutes until it gets to your preferred consistency. The added sweetness of maple syrup enhances its appeal making it an irresistible bait for many species.
  

• Sticky Maize: Sticky maize is a type of maize that has been treated with a sticky additive, making it ideal for binding with other baits or groundbait mixes. To prepare sticky maize, follow the same soaking and boiling process as whole maize. After boiling, drain the maize and allow it to cool slightly before adding the sticky additive. Mix the maize thoroughly to ensure an even coating. Sticky maize is particularly effective when used in feeder fishing, as it helps create a dense, cohesive bait that stays together in the water while still releasing attractants.

Techniques for Using Maize in Fishing

To maximise the effectiveness of maize as a fishing bait, consider these techniques:

Free lining

One of the easiest and most highly efficient uses of maize is free lining. Here, you attach one piece of maize to the hook and cast out without using any weight. The maize drifts naturally with the current, creating a very realistic presentation that fish just cannot resist.

Feeders fishing

If you are fishing in deeper waters, maize can be effective when used with a feeder. Fill the feeder with some maize mixed with ground bait before casting it to your chosen spot. This way, as the feeder empties slowly, the maize disperses and forms an area of feeding that attracts other fish.

PVA Bags

Maize can also be used in PVA bags for more focus-oriented angling. All you need to do is fill a PVA bag with maize plus other attractants before casting into your favourite place. Once the PVA melts away, grains concentrated in one particular area are released.

Avoid Overfeeding

Although corn is a great bait, too much can be detrimental. Too much corn in the water may saturate fish, making them less likely to nibble at your baited hook or lure. Instead, they prefer excessive amounts of food. Start small and adjust according to how fish seem to respond or react, whether they start biting or not.

Why Maize is a Favourite Among Anglers

Maize has earned its place as a favourite among anglers for several reasons:

• Affordability: Maize is relatively inexpensive compared to other baits, making it a cost-effective option for anglers who fish frequently.
• Versatility: Maize can be used in a variety of ways, from free lining to feeder fishing, making it suitable for different fishing conditions and target species.
• Attractiveness: The natural colour, texture, and flavour of maize make it highly attractive to a wide range of fish species, particularly carp.
• Durability: When prepared correctly, maize is a durable bait that can withstand multiple casts without breaking apart.

Maize is a versatile and highly effective bait that has stood the test of time in the fishing community. Whether using flaked maize, whole maize, or maple maize, understanding how to prepare and use maize properly can significantly enhance your fishing success. Experiment with different types and techniques to find what works best for you, and enjoy the satisfaction of a well-attracted catch. Happy fishing!