What is Method Mix???

Method mix is a mixture of “chum” that is to be packed around your sinker or method feeder. When packed around the sinker, it is usually referred to as a method ball. Because of the ingredients it is made with, it is quite firm in a dry state and easily casted, but when completely wet, it breaks apart soon after hitting the bottom, leaving a circular area of chum with your hooked bait right on the edge. This really attracts carp to the circle of food on the bottom. As they begin eating, they find the hooked bait and soon will be on your line. It is a deadly way to fish and many of the sharpies who catch fish all the time are using method balls on a regular basis. Note that some people also refer to this a packbait. Some fishermen choose to pack it around their bait, rather than the sinker and thus, the name packbait. Below are some recipes that I have tried and that work well. More recipes can be found on the Forum on the Carp Anglers Group website. If you want to improve your catches, commit to using method mixes.

Method Mix #1- This is what I generally use as a method mix: 8 parts oatmeal, 2 parts cornmeal, 2 parts crushed up bread, 1 part particle added such as corn, flavoring (optional). Mix dry ingredients and then gradually add water and knead until you have a mix that will pack well. Be careful not to add to much water. Pack around the sinker and squeeze many times until firm.

Method Mix #2- 1 box (32 oz.) of Minute Rice, 1 (32 oz.) bottle of ketchup, particle handful (corn) of your choice. Heat the ketchup before pouring over the rice. Stir. Let it sit for an hour or even overnight. Add potato flakes or even oatmeal if too watery. Add a little water if too dry. Pack tightly around your sinker.