Synthetics

Superb fly fishing with a synthetic bait.

If you use synthetic bait laced with scent that attracts fish is an incredibly effective method for catching trout. Synthetic baits work especially well catching recently stocked hatchery trout which used to feeding on pellet-shaped foods... for more fantastic tips like this, read on!

Get synced into synthetic baits, with these brilliant best practice tips.

1. Get to grips with all the various bait types

Synthetic baits are produced in various shapes, colours, sizes and scents, normally imitating food that trout might eat like earthworms, fish eggs, corn or fish food pellets. And it's also available in a dough you can manipulate, which is really effective for trout. Floating baits are the best type because they float off the bottom and are readily visible to a hungry trout.

2. Practice rigging your bait

A simple bottom rig is best for fishing synthetic baits in ponds. However it can also be used in streams, just take care that the bait doesn't get caught as the current drags along the river bed.

3. Select the right rod & reel.

Be sure to choose a light to medium action spin-casting or spinning rod. And remember, push-button style s with spin-casting outfits are really well suited for fly fisher beginners.

4. How to fish with synthetic baits

Using a bottom rig is as easy as casting it out and waiting for a fish to take the bait. Trout prefer outlets or other areas of moving water, but can roam through ponds early in the season.

5. And above all else... be patient!

Once you've made your cast, let your bait sit. Be patient! If you don't get a bite within 10 minutes, reel your line back in, check the bait and make another cast. If your line tightens up, you probably have a fish on. When using a circle hook, make sure you reel quickly until the hook sets in the fish's mouth. When using a standard hook, ensure you tighten the line and set the hook with a quick sweep of your rod.

Your 'top 5' fantastically effective synthetic baits!

There are many different kinds of effective artificial bait you can choose from, and many fishers prefer them because they are less messy. Lures also minimise the possibility of the fish getting "gut hooked" (when they swallow the hook deeply or completely). Although lures tend to be more expensive than live bait, and are more likely to get caught in underwater obstacles, for some types of fish they're still the best choice. Here's our synthetic bait 'top 5' for your fishing pleasure.