Coarse pellets have become a staple bait in modern angling, with many anglers refusing to hit the bank without them. They’re packed with attraction, highly digestible, and naturally designed to stimulate fish into feeding more. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to use—perfect for feeding via a catapult or cupping in with a pole.

However, because pellets are so widely used, fish in popular venues have encountered them countless times. This can sometimes lead to a drop in effectiveness, as fish become wary of the same old bait. So, how can you make your pellets stand out and trigger more bites?

Making Your Pellets Stand Out

1. Add Colour with Bait Dyes

One of the simplest ways to give your pellets an edge is by dyeing them. A colour change presents something different for fish to investigate, and in murky water, brighter colours can make it easier for them to locate your bait.

There are many bait dyes and flavouring liquids available, including:

• Ringers Liquids
• Peg No.1 Transforma Liquid
• Korda Goo

These products not only change the colour of your pellets but also add scent and flavour, helping to draw fish into your peg and spark curiosity.

2. Experiment with Colours

The best colour to use can vary dramatically from venue to venue. What works brilliantly in one lake may be ineffective just a few miles away. That’s why it’s always a good idea to carry multiple colours and experiment throughout your session. Over time, you’ll learn which shades work best for your favorite fisheries.

How to Dye Your Pellets

Dyeing pellets is incredibly simple and requires minimal effort. Doing it the night before your session saves time on the bank, ensuring you’re ready to go as soon as you arrive.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Grab a clear plastic bag (with no holes).
2. Pour in your desired amount of pellets—don’t fill the bag more than 25% full to allow room for mixing.
3. Add a small amount of your chosen liquid dye—start with a little and add more if needed.
4. Seal the bag, trapping in some air. This allows the bag to inflate slightly.
5. Shake the bag vigorously until all the pellets are evenly coated. If some remain dry, add a little more liquid and shake again.
6. Allow them to air-dry in a bait bowl for about an hour. This helps reduce the amount of dye that transfers onto your hands while fishing. However, some anglers prefer to keep the pellets slightly damp, as this allows the dye to release more quickly into the water.

Top Tip:

Dye pellets of different sizes for hookbaits! This gives you the flexibility to switch between a larger or smaller hookbait during your session, helping you adapt to the fish’s feeding habits on the day.

Fishing with Dyed Pellets

Once your pellets are ready, you can fish them exactly as you would with standard pellets. They work well with a variety of methods, including:

• Pole fishing – Ideal for creating a steady feeding zone.
• Method feeder fishing – Great for carp, F1s, and bream.
• Pellet waggler fishing – Perfect for catching fish up in the water.
• Bait band setups – 4mm, 6mm, and 8mm dyed pellets work brilliantly when banded onto a hook.

By experimenting with colours and presentation, you’ll soon discover the perfect combination to give you an edge on your local waters.

Final Thought:

Don’t be afraid to try something different—sometimes, a simple tweak in colour can make all the difference between an average session and a match-winning performance!

Tight lines and happy fishing! 🎣