A-Z of fishing - Traces / Baits  Go Back
Author: Hein Henning    Date Published: 09 December 2019

Traces / Baits 

This is the business end of freshwater fishing. So we need to look at this aspects closely to ensure best results.

TRACES

There are many traces to be used when bank angling. I will focus on the 3 more popular traces and look at uses and advantages...

Bottom trace - This trace is normally used for distance fishing, but it is also preferred for Barber and Muddy fishing. The main line should be 45cm long with a P4 weight at the one end (24lb). Use gummy stops to support you 2 barrel swivels witch supports your hook line. Fix 12cm hook lines (7-10lb) to your swivels. The reason for the length of the hook line is to allow the fish to pick up your bait and turn his head before the hook sets. This ensures a better hook-up.

Gliding Rietvlei trace - Use a 24lb main line (25cm). Use a mushroom weight with a bead at the bottom to protect your knot. Your barrel swivel is fixed to the bottom and the other one will glide above the weight supported by 2 beads. The hook line is the same as with the bottom trace. This is without a equal and the most preferred trace for bank fishing.

Babyshoe Trace - This trace is the same as the Rietvlei with the difference that both hooks will be at the bottom of the trace. The trace is mainly used if there are many snags in the water.

The importance of traces cannot be emphasized enough. The most important thing to remember is to spend more time in building your trace. Also to use the right knots. I prefer the KNOT LESS knot at the hooks and a simple figure of 8 or Palomar knot at the swivels. These knots ensure that you retain more line strength. Remember that your trace must endure the battle.

BAITS

There are so many brands and variety that BAITS are the reason they many anglers win or fail. Lets look at the differences and how to use your flavours.

• ESSENCE - This is a basic flavour that is not diluted and carries no base or colorant.
• DIP - This is a single flavour that carries a base and colorant.
• MUTI / DUPA - This is a combination of flavours that carries a base and colorant.
• BALLDIP - This is the same as a Muti / Dupa, but is mixed with a powder to enhance the flavour or protein value.
• SPRAY - This is a Dip / Muti / Dupa this a thinner base to allow spray mist when applied.
• SPECIAL - This is a Muti / Dupa but the base with witch it is mixed enhances the characteristics of the mixture.

HOW TO USE YOUR FLAVOURS

NB! Remember to use your flavours on your feed. It is only in rare conditions that you will apply this to hook bait. The reason is that the sole purpose of flavours is to attract the fish and is not eaten by the fish as it will be diluted / gone or all that is left is a trail of sent.

In warm conditions or then the water is oxygenated by wind, use less amount of liquids as the fish are more active and do not need much encouragement to take your bait. The opposite is true when the water is still and it is cold. Use as much liquids as you can to attract the fish as they are more docile.

• CARRIER - This is flavours with high volumes of protein. This the reason why fish feeds and thus you compliment it. Use flavours like Caramel / Molasses /Butter / Sweet corn.
• CALLER - This is stronger flavour like Garlic / Spice / Almond and more that travels far to attract the fish to your bait.
• FEEDER - This the more fruity flavours witch triggers the fish to feed.

NB!!!! We lose our identity as anglers by applying marketing efforts to our fishing. Make decisions for the fish and not the smells of flavours that you like or are advertised or advocated by others.