Some useful tips about boilie care and preparation to make sure you get the best from your baits.
Bait Types
Freezer
These baits contain no preservative and will last a maximum of a week. Typically freezer baits will require more preparation than other types. Often air dried to produce harder baits or to semi-preserve them for a longer session. They can also be fully rehydrated as they can often loose liquid through the drying and boiling process.
Shelf-life
A high quality preservative is added as part of the mixing process, which ensures the baits will be preserved for a longer period of time. Shelf-life baits should be used within 6-12 months.
Boilie Storage
Shelf-life baits are extremely durable, but should still be cared for to ensure you get the best from them. Keep them in a cool dark place and keep them in resealable packaging or air tight containers.
As preservatives are not used and as the name suggests freezer baits should be frozen as soon after purchase as possible, this will prevent the ingredients activating and will maintain the baits condition. To prevent any freezer burn try to keep the bags away from the sides of the freezer. A useful tip is to line the freezer with cardboard to stop the bags coming into contact with the inside walls.
Boilie Preparation
Keeping shelf-life baits in good condition on the bank is simple. Keep them in a cool dry place away from direct sunlight. A shaded bucket or lined cool bag are ideal. Freezer baits however must be air dried in order to maintain some longevity and ensure a top quality bait.
How to air dry your boilies….
- Leave the baits to thaw in the original packaging. The ice that has formed in the bags will contain valuable additives and nutrients that the bait will re-absorb.
- Once thawed place the baits in an air-dry bag or something suitable. Do not overfill the air-dry bag!
- Hang the baits up high to minimise any rodent or animal interference.
- Ensure that the baits are moved around regularly to maximise airflow.
The more you air dry the baits the harder they will become. They will also continue to shrink as moisture leaves the bait. A highly effective method of keeping them in a good condition is to rehydrate them. This is purely the process of reintroducing liquids that have been lost through the air drying process.
- Place the baits in a suitable container/bucket.
- Add your desired liquids. This can be additives, dips or if you want softer baits even lake water.
- Leave the baits to absorb the liquid and top up as required.
These simple but effective methods will ensure your bait remains in the best condition possible and hopefully put a few more fish on the bank!