Q&A SHORE ANGLING
Q I have been using prawns as bait to great effect this summer when going out fishing for smoothhounds. This is somewhat of a new bait discovery for me because in the past I’ve mainly just used peeler crab when targeting hounds. Peeler crab is so expensive and has also been a total nightmare to get hold of so far this year. Frozen king prawns are much easier to get hold of and you get more bait for your money. So I was wondering, do you think prawns could be as effective when targeting cod this winter, replacing peeler crab as one of my main bait sources?
GORDON JONES, CARMARTHENSHIRE
JM says: Much the same as smoothhounds, cod love eating prawns and they are one of the main natural food sources which they will be swimming around looking for. I think using prawn as bait in the winter months could be a good alternative to peeler crab, and if bought in bulk would certainly save you a few quid. Another good and cheaper alternative to peeler crab is cart, which is processed meat from edible hen crab. Cart has been successfully used in the north east of England when targeting cod for many years, and it is now becoming more popular in other parts of the United Kingdom as well.
Q I am getting into glued rigs. Has it got to be a special tubing that is used? Also, what are the best glues?
CLIVE BADDICK
When tying or gluing rigs we all have different ways of doing things. Just because my way is different to your way doesn’t mean either is right or wrong. Personally, when gluing rigs I don’t bother with the tubing because I see it as unnecessary and a waste of money. You can simply glue your micro beads directly to your rig body and so trap the swivel that holds your snood lengths. I would recommend just gluing the outer side of your beads, because that way your swivels will not come in contact with any glue. It’s also recommended to leave a gap between the glued beads so your swivels can work properly. There are several rig glues in the marketplace, and both the Tronix
