Easy-to-learn dough ball techniques that are very useful

When using dough balls for fishing, the bait we prepare needs to have a certain level of stickiness. A common method is to add some binder powder to the bait, and when hooking the bait, we control the size of the bait ball based on the size of the target fish.

Typically, we use dough balls for fishing in three situations. The first is when fishing in deeper waters. In this case, if we use paste bait, it is likely that the bait will be dissolved before it reaches the fish layer. The second situation is when there are many small fish. In this case, using dough balls can extend the time small fish take to snatch the bait, giving bigger fish a better chance to take the bait. The third situation is when targeting larger fish. Generally speaking, larger fish require patience, meaning the bait must have enough hook retention after entering the water and should not dissolve too quickly. This is when dough balls are most appropriate.

Now, let’s talk about how to prepare the bait. If the bait is not properly prepared, no matter how we roll it, the results won’t be ideal. Generally, the prepared bait should be soft, elastic, evenly hydrated, and non-sticky. It should be easy to roll into balls when it’s ready. Typically, there are two methods for preparing dough balls: one is drier and looser, and the other is stickier and softer. The drier type is mainly used for attracting fish, also known as “baiting the spot,” while the softer, stickier one is used for actual fishing. The drier bait requires adding more auxiliary ingredients like bran, velvet powder, or snowflake powder, and less water. For the stickier bait, we add fewer auxiliary ingredients and use more water.

Next, let’s talk about how to roll the bait. To roll a proper bait ball, there are some tricks to learn. Typically, we take a suitable amount of bait, roll it into a ball, and then use the nail of our thumb to split it in half. The piece left on the thumb nail is held there, and the other piece is pinched between the index and middle fingers. The longer hook line is placed on either end of the bait piece, and the bait is rolled into a ball.

Finally, let’s discuss the shape of the bait ball. For casual fishing, if the fish are biting well, the shape of the bait ball is not a major concern; almost any shape will do. However, if the fish are not biting well or if we are targeting elusive fish, the shape of the bait ball becomes more important. The best shape is generally a tear-drop shape, with a smaller top and a larger bottom. This shape not only helps the bait sink better but also perfectly covers the hook, preventing the fish from detecting the hook after swallowing the bait and spitting it out.