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kells
Posts: 5340
kells
   Old Thread  #1143 9 Feb 2025 at 3.36pm  0  Login    Register
Just had a look at the latest Vlog Gav . Even went back and had a look at some of your earlier vids A very honest account of the bait game. Reminded me again to take a look at the baits you have on offer. Sample order incoming.
BenCarper99
Posts: 14
BenCarper99
   Old Thread  #1142 29 Jan 2025 at 1.05pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1131
superb vid from HC
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #1141 8 Oct 2024 at 8.39pm  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1140
Well ideally 20kg but I can often piggyback orders onto other orders if our timing is right
Wayne
Posts: 18680
Wayne
   Old Thread  #1140 8 Oct 2024 at 4.27pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1139
What’s the minimum order for the nutriplex Gav?
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #1139 5 Oct 2024 at 1.51pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1137
Nutriplex is still Pre order only for the simple reason that we have to hold so much of the herb and skipjack and Tricknut during peak season.
I will start making more Nutriplex in November and we are taking some plex with us on our next trip away.
Nutriplex has great winter form and is a very old proven recipe, it has a low fat content and an all round basemix like the other baits so it will work well in cold water.
Are the primers pva friendly? You can dunk a pva mesh bag in them but I don’t pour them into solid bags!
Mega things those primers, I wouldnt fish without them
Stokebloke
Posts: 506
   Old Thread  #1138 5 Oct 2024 at 12.22pm  1  Login    Register
Are the 'Primers' pva friendly?
jhhilton1983
Posts: 1777
jhhilton1983
   Old Thread  #1137 5 Oct 2024 at 10.41am  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1135
When are you starting producing the Nutriplex again? Am i correct in thinking this is the bait you suggest for winter use?
vossy1
Posts: 6415
vossy1
   Old Thread  #1136 5 Oct 2024 at 9.35am  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1135
Quite a cold day yestrday with that wind and the water, much colder than I expected but it gets a good wind all day, even so at over 15' you'd think it wouldn't cool off that fast (note to self, get a new thermometer!) In any case, white Trick Nut pop up producing a fish this time and a lost fish on a bottom bait, still doing the do. Those bottom baits are nice and soft but it still held on a rig screw for 90mins until the take.

EDITED, not a white wafter, a pop up! thanks Braders
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #1135 29 Sept 2024 at 2.43pm  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1134
The media thing will have to be sorted one day buddy. I have had lots of offers to help but like you have just said,I don’t like the idea of pestering people as it makes you seem desperate.
I have always concentrated on the actual products and tried to make things how I want them to be (and Pidge) but there are some clever lads out there who know how take pics and work social media.
Maybe next year I’ll take on someone who can drive that bit for me and take some of the pressure off us.
This year has been an eye opener for us and it’s not all positive, I have been doing far too many hours and two weeks ago I very nearly broke 😂
The company and the lakes take it out of you physically and we have grown so quickly that we need to take the next step and that means more help!!
The blog is a good way to vent and show you guys how we work and how I want it to be!
Haven’t had much chance to film anything for 3 weeks on the bounce now but I will get back on it this week.
God bless the tricknut……..just taken a large shipment of the nuts again and I’ll be back on that mixer by lunchtime 😂😂
vossy1
Posts: 6415
vossy1
   Old Thread  #1134 29 Sept 2024 at 8.07am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1133
To be fair Gav, I suppose it depends what you want from your business. You might find bringing someone onboard to do all the social media type crap which is so en vogue these days might pay for itself, and that doesn't mean you don't have to do it your way.

I use another bait firm and I quite often find myself unsubscribing from the e-mails as I simply get too many. I'm sure the youngsters like to be kept in touch but good god, how many times do you need reminders about stuff ...I can only imagine what their 'feeds' are like, if that's the right word.

I was out on Fri, it was surprisingly tough on a 'easy' water, weather conditions did not help & the water was surprisingly cold. 5 anglers and 2 fish, 1 to me on a Trick Nut wafter. Nothing absolute about that but confidence slowly building in Trick Nut
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #1133 9 Sept 2024 at 7.43pm  8  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1132
Isn’t it funny, I got told that we must make some sort of videos and improve our media as it’s the “in thing” but I have been buried in a world of work and paying bills and building the business for over 3 years and the whole media thing has just not happened.
I took the camera with me for a few days and turned it into some sort of blog thingy and my phone went mental!!
The orders piled in (they have been steadily rising to a point where I’m struggling to keep on top of it all) and the handcraft files has definitely made a difference already.
But I think that there is so much bull**** in the bait industry that the honest and open type of films will be popular. I’ll do a bit more and there are lots of things to talk about and show you lads as we move forward. I have some large changes coming I just don’t when it will happen and how it will work but I’ll film what I can.
When people make films every day it tells me that they are clearly not very busy as I genuinely don’t get time to drink a hot cup of tea most days 😂
Maybe Hollywood will come calling for me one day 😂😂😂
kells
Posts: 5340
kells
   Old Thread  #1132 9 Sept 2024 at 1.02pm  1  Login    Register
Just had a chance to watch your first vlog Gav. Must say some proper sensible bait talk being spoken there. Love how you keep your workspace so clean aswell. You look at a lot of bait company's behind the scene footage and they seem to have more product and mess on the floor then anything. Says a lot about the thought and effort you put into your bait Highly impressed will have to send of for some samples and have a look myself.

But definitely showing your age. Don't think many of the kids these days would even no what an 8th of pot and a blue magazine is these days..
Chuffy
Posts: 6644
Chuffy
   Old Thread  #1131 9 Sept 2024 at 1.44am  0  Login    Register
This is a good watch

The Handcraft Files - Part One
Chuffy
Posts: 6644
Chuffy
   Old Thread  #1130 30 Aug 2024 at 1.02pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1129
When I have used a liquid the Calanus watered down with hemp oil is a good shout, I just find it unnecessary to be honest if i want more of a spod mix I just add some hemp/water. I also lightly coat the hookbaits in Minamino in the pots.
Teddybare
Posts: 984
   Old Thread  #1129 30 Aug 2024 at 10.47am  0  Login    Register
Anyone have a preferred liquid to go with the Herb and generic pellets in a spod mix ?
Teddybare
Posts: 984
   Old Thread  #1128 29 Aug 2024 at 11.22pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1127
Ta
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #1127 29 Aug 2024 at 6.51pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1123
6 months on shelf life’s if kept cool etc.
I constantly test shelf life baits in my office and I have tested them up to a year old! I do think that you should use them way before then though.
bmthman
Posts: 858
bmthman
   Old Thread  #1126 29 Aug 2024 at 11.31am  0  Login    Register
Pepperami flavour boilies on the herb base mix would be great for my Barbel fishing.
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #1125 29 Aug 2024 at 9.19am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1123
I had some at the start of this year that was left over and it is still fine after 3 months.
Pro-Blanker
Posts: 63
   Old Thread  #1124 28 Aug 2024 at 8.44pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1122
Been asking gav for years for a deep c/ crab boilie to match the pop up ..
Was also asking for a squid to match and it came along in end
So still hope for a crab if enough keep on lol
Teddybare
Posts: 984
   Old Thread  #1123 28 Aug 2024 at 7.09pm  0  Login    Register
What is the shelflife of the shelflife bait if kept in the correct condition ?
MrNuvawun
Posts: 2042
MrNuvawun
   Old Thread  #1122 28 Aug 2024 at 6.48pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1120
How about a light brown fishmeal with the Deep C attractor package? That would be awesome!
Carp123_0
Posts: 96
   Old Thread  #1121 28 Aug 2024 at 6.44pm  0  Login    Register
What’s everyone’s go to boilie from handcraft in winter that tricknut look decent
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #1120 26 Aug 2024 at 2.31pm  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1119
I can’t ever change herb
I’d get shot 😂
Maybe a dark version one day 😂😂
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #1119 26 Aug 2024 at 1.39pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1116
He could do them as a special hookbait
lilharbs
Posts: 1568
lilharbs
   Old Thread  #1118 26 Aug 2024 at 1.24pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1116
2nd this, Sting is banging 👌
kells
Posts: 5340
kells
   Old Thread  #1117 26 Aug 2024 at 11.39am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1111
Robin red Fishmeals catcher of big carp since the mid to late 80's
For some reason they do seem to pick out the bigger fish. That's why I think Terry Hearn puts so much faith in them. Arnt Sticky bring out a Robin red Fishmeal?
Wayne
Posts: 18680
Wayne
   Old Thread  #1116 25 Aug 2024 at 8.48pm  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1111
Forget the colour Gav, can you please do the herb with 3ml per kilo of sting flavour …….
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #1115 25 Aug 2024 at 8.34am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1111
If I could only use one it would be the Herb,had a lovely 17/18lb mirror early hours this morning.The lake has been fishing very badly this year and 12mm herb with a small dumbell wafter has done the business again .
woody71
Posts: 3007
   Old Thread  #1114 24 Aug 2024 at 10.21pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1113
Its not specifically the carps reaction to the red bait that i am bothered about more so the coots that are my biggest problem on a specific low stock carp water with a sandy bottom, the red fishmeals stand out so clearly even washed out.

I got some of the skipjack off you last week to see if it will be harder for them to locate, i have thought of trying a nut based bait as that will probably blend even better plus the the head of very big bream may not be as drawn to a nut bait?

The lake i am fishing is a very difficult lake with a few stockies and the very old originals which is what i am fishing for with some success but they will not not pick up a bright hookbait pink, yellow, white, orange etc all my fish are falling to natural subtle coloured hoobaits

keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #1113 24 Aug 2024 at 8.49pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1112
When we first produced the finished article that is now the herb, we all kind of said the same thing and we watched a lot of carp on two lakes in particular feed on the herb from late winter into early spring.
The carp never showed signs of spooking off the bait, in fact it was the reverse! They homed in on the baited area and when our guys got together to share the early results they all said how good the first ever response was to the bait.
I actually think that 99 percent of what we throw into a lake is hi viz.
Most boilies are pale
Pellets go pale
Corn is bright yellow
Particles are bright
Therefore another bright boilie makes no difference to the carp. If they like eating something then they will stay and feed regardless of colour.
The birds however are a different matter.
Skipjack is reverse engineered from herb but with different additives, liquids and of course tuna fish but the colour was tweaked to avoid bloody coots!!
woody71
Posts: 3007
   Old Thread  #1112 24 Aug 2024 at 6.28pm  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1111
I think a brown version of the herb would have done very well, The red herb obviously catches a lot of fish and is very successful but i personally think the red stands out to much over most of the bottoms i fish, i always seem to do better on brown baits
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #1111 24 Aug 2024 at 5.53pm  3  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1110
I think the 3 main baits we sell will find a place in many of you guys angling at some point. I have worked my way through dozens and dozens of recipes over the years and most of them have something in common.
If you are going to try them then start with the herb! That one is just so effective. Today I have opened my social media (sorry to mention Facebook 😂 and the messages and catch reports on it are like nothing I have seen before. Shelf life herb is very good too.
It’s got a huge following and we could just make that one bait and survive now.
When I made it I was tempted to make it brown/ natural colour but l love the haiths robin red and I have seen how good those proper red fishmeals can be.
I do wonder what the brown version would have taken off like!
vossy1
Posts: 6415
vossy1
   Old Thread  #1110 24 Aug 2024 at 8.39am  2  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1109
I use both, S7 & Tricknut, going to be hard for me to stop using S7!

@Gav

Hope you had a good break

I keep meaning to come on here and share some mega carp but I guess you can see them on our social media if you want to. I don’t look here as much as I used to

Honestly, sort your s**t out.
Even for you there's no way I'm ever going on social media voluntarily , especially to look at pictures of other people ( who I don't aspire to be like, and am not envious of) fishy pictures (that on the whole I wouldn't want to fish for and would probably never get the opportunity to anyway )
I was forced to twice, once by a syndi that only communicated by FB (if you call a lot of the scribblings communication, could be another language for all I know), and once by a club because I was fishing and unbeknown to me there was a work party slated and they only told people by FB

Ramblings over, go and slag me off on social medial folks fill your boots ...and that was all said in jest to a point, FB can kiss my a***.
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #1109 23 Aug 2024 at 10.05pm  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1108
Yes,switched from dna to handcraft and won't be going back
Teddybare
Posts: 984
   Old Thread  #1108 23 Aug 2024 at 5.05pm  0  Login    Register
Herb shelflife, as good as the frozen version? On a par with DNA for instance?
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #1107 19 Aug 2024 at 9.55pm  3  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1106
Evening everyone.
We are just about to embark on a 10 day shutdown.
It has been a very busy two months and we all need a break so the whole factory is closing down for a short while. If you were thinking about placing an order it will have to wait for early September and I have no doubt that the first week back is going to be nothing short of more chaos 😂
But we will do our best and get lots more bait ready as soon as we can.
I keep meaning to come on here and share some mega carp but I guess you can see them on our social media if you want to.
I don’t look here as much as I used to but I will keep replying to your messages when I see them.
Tight lines for now 😉
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #1106 21 Jul 2024 at 7.37pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1105
Very well spotted or sniffed
Your nose will get tuna
Squid
And the spice comes from a bird food that not many will have put in a large scale bait 😉
One of my favourite ingredients!!
Interestingly those little 12mm pop ups are working for a huge amount of anglers out there.
They are made with the basemix in them which for me is a huge edge!
0nslow
Posts: 534
0nslow
   Old Thread  #1105 21 Jul 2024 at 3.57pm  2  Login    Register
Properly used the skipjack for the first time today.

One rod on a popup one on a bottom bait.

Fished 2 quite different swims and had 7 runs in 8 hours, 5 landed all on the matching popup. No muck or glugs just around freebies.

The stuff proper stinks after being out of the freezer for a bit I swear there's a low level of an oriental spice in there, but none of that matters really because on this water today, it's really done the job. I'm one happy new handcraft customer 👍

Just hoping for one more run before home time 🙂
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #1104 20 Jul 2024 at 9.42pm  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1103
Well done lads and glad the service was spot on!
We have sent out a lot of bait and hookbaits this week and I hope it all arrived safely!
Even managed a few carp myself today….. little herb Wafters, royal supremes and a mix of herb and skipjack 12mm produced two corkers!
Loads of carp coming out again this week 😉
MiniWelsh
Posts: 2189
MiniWelsh
   Old Thread  #1103 19 Jul 2024 at 6.27pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1102
More to the point then will catch fish. Just had a great session on my syndicate that is fishing hard, Deep C and Almond wafters with small pva mesh bags of pellets did the job for me when most people on the lake were struggling
blackfield
Posts: 2515
blackfield
   Old Thread  #1102 19 Jul 2024 at 6.17pm  0  Login    Register
Ordered 3 tubs of hookbaits a couple of days ago. Delivered next day. All 3 smell right, look right and all I need to do is put em in the right place. Great service and quality gear.
Pro-Blanker
Posts: 63
   Old Thread  #1101 9 Jul 2024 at 2.50pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1099
Cheers gav just made my life harder lol . Just placed a small order for the herb to try next weekend , i already tried and tested for you in the earlie stages tho last year the squid , so i give the herb ago next weekend then make my mind up and place a big order for france next month.
Thanks mate
Wayne
Posts: 18680
Wayne
   Old Thread  #1100 8 Jul 2024 at 9.12am  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1099
Get on the super squids …….
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #1099 7 Jul 2024 at 4.54pm  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1098
Afternoon all!!
Apologies I have been mowing grass round the lakes all day today and sorting out a minor flood in our unit after a storm!
Skipjack or herb?
So so difficult to answer this. I love them both and my customers do too! Skipjack is very different to any other squid/tuna bait that I have ever seen (never seen one with actual tuna in commercially) and it’s already produced some mega fish.
Herb needs no introduction and I guess that if you judge it on results alone then Herb has 3 years of proof behind it whereas skipjack is the new boy with big shoes to fill!
My lads who use and promote it fairly are all blabbering on about the skipjack and how they never thought they would use anything other than herb until I gave them the squid!
Both very good
Both made with really nice different things in compared to a lot of baits out there.
Tricky choice to make isn’t it! Let’s ask this again in a years time 😂
MiniWelsh
Posts: 2189
MiniWelsh
   Old Thread  #1098 7 Jul 2024 at 10.46am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1097
I would suggest using messenger as I have had many a conversation with them out of hours via that method of contact
newcarper78
Posts: 880
newcarper78
   Old Thread  #1097 7 Jul 2024 at 9.25am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1096
You might be better off copying that message and putting it in an email to the Handcraft team. You'll get a reply very quickly there during office hours. Gav doesn't check here consistently as he's usually swamped in tuna fish and other assorted bits and pieces lol.

info@handcraftbaits.co.uk

Good luck on your trip.
Pro-Blanker
Posts: 63
   Old Thread  #1096 6 Jul 2024 at 9.29pm  0  Login    Register
Hows the skip jack comparing to the herb at min catch wise.
Im off to france in a month and fishing a 10 acre lake that only started fishing 2 years back and was untouched for 20 years . Stock been added 2 so there in there and used 2 boiles now but there lot naturals food in there crayfish etc .
Im thinking big c and the squid pop ups but need a a feed bait .
So out of the skip and herb.
Gav lend a hand ?
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #1095 6 Jul 2024 at 7.21pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1094
When will skipjack be available in 12mm
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #1094 4 Jul 2024 at 11.06pm  2  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1093
I do like the smell of the finished bait but my god it stinks when I’m blending the hydros, flavours, tuna fish and garlic…..makes me gag 😂
I’m also not keen on tuna sarnies anymore 😩
0nslow
Posts: 534
0nslow
   Old Thread  #1093 4 Jul 2024 at 11.50am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1090
Skipjack smells more carpy tho 😂😂
wac1977
Posts: 33
   Old Thread  #1092 3 Jul 2024 at 5.19pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1090
Better get my order in
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #1091 3 Jul 2024 at 5.01pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1090
It certainly catches fish
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #1090 3 Jul 2024 at 4.40pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1089
Nothing like that one buddy
Meaty, spicy lovely smell and taste
Lots of hydro liquids in the makeup
Smells like………well it smells carpy according to the regulars 😂
wac1977
Posts: 33
   Old Thread  #1089 3 Jul 2024 at 2.07pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1088
Can anyone confirm what the attractor profile is used in the Herb?

I love the old Shellfish sense appeal / Monster Crab combo and wondered if it is anything like this?
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #1088 2 Jul 2024 at 7.38pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1087
Good news buddy
There has been delays for about 20 customers as we tried a new shipping company only for them to fail to turn up and collect 😂
But we are back in business and sent another pallet of stuff out today
Hopefully all orders will arrive by end of play tomorrow!!
0nslow
Posts: 534
0nslow
   Old Thread  #1087 2 Jul 2024 at 2.21pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1086
Still got me delivery of your finest skipjack today mate, cheers. Thought there may have been a day or two delay
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #1086 1 Jul 2024 at 4.48pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1084
Yep
Servers are down and it’s caused us a nightmare today
Hopefully get it all back up and running soon!
Sorry lads
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #1085 1 Jul 2024 at 1.01pm  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1084
He knows,it's on the Facebook page
0nslow
Posts: 534
0nslow
   Old Thread  #1084 1 Jul 2024 at 8.31am  0  Login    Register
Looks like your website is broken bud.
MiniWelsh
Posts: 2189
MiniWelsh
   Old Thread  #1083 30 Jun 2024 at 7.54pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1082
I bloody hope so, been a tough year so far, only had a couple of decent carp
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #1082 30 Jun 2024 at 2.43pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1081
Well done! Lots of nice fish being reported this week.
Maybe spawning is mostly done for the year and they are up for a feed again
vossy1
Posts: 6415
vossy1
   Old Thread  #1081 29 Jun 2024 at 4.49pm  2  Login    Register
1st outing using Tricknut yesterday, wafters fished with method incorporating the base & liquid, 2 Carp, equalling the 2 on S7, quite happy with that for 1st use and only a few hours fishing
MrNuvawun
Posts: 2042
MrNuvawun
   Old Thread  #1080 25 Jun 2024 at 10.05pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1079
How about in a really pale natural fishmeal then, with no robin red or blood plasma etc to darken it up?
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #1079 25 Jun 2024 at 7.58pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1078
White baits are a thing of the past buddy
Not allowed to make them anymore but hookbaits are fine
MrNuvawun
Posts: 2042
MrNuvawun
   Old Thread  #1078 23 Jun 2024 at 9.47pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1074
White Deep C boilies to go with the wafters would be amazing I reckon!
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #1077 23 Jun 2024 at 6.50pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1076
Think that's what going to do,any dark sting wafters in them
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #1076 23 Jun 2024 at 6.14pm  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1075
Why not use the small dumbbell Wafters?? 😂 10x14mm
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #1075 23 Jun 2024 at 6.11pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1074
Never mind all that,what about 12mm wafters
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #1074 23 Jun 2024 at 4.47pm  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1073
Afternoon lads
I’m glad the herb is smashing it for you lads and I have to say that the herb is still working for the lads who got on it right back in the beginning.
That one is still handcrafts biggest seller and perhaps always will be!
I have never made any other boilie with such a huge response!
Skipjack, well this one has surprised me.
I have had some amazing captures sent in since its launch and there are a few lads that have some mind bending hauls.
One of my lads Glenn Maulkerson has just had two sessions back to back at a new lake where he has landed an entire seasons worth of carp including the biggest two carp in the lake. He has also been through 30kg of the freezer baits in two trips.
I have been using it on my new lakes and I must admit I bloody love it! No bird issues, and bites on nearly every trip!
My mate dan has taken this one to about 4/5 venues in the last 5 months and I have lost track of the carp he’s caught.
Herb took about 6 months to really get out there and prove itself and the skipjack is doing well on sales and catch reports already.
Making skipjack has proved interesting. Kilos and kilos of tuna fish being rolled into the bait has now become a really messy job. I blitz it into the hydros and the whole factory smells like a fishmongers 😂😉
It’s very different to anything I have seen before commercially (not just cos of the tuna) and I have grown to really like the smell and taste.
Why do some baits not work at some lakes? Hard to say but some lakes don’t respond to particles or to bright hookbaits or to maggots etc and generally I think it’s overuse or other species that’s the problem! Why does one guy not like herb when 9 out of 10 say it’s the best thing ever? We have just gone through a very busy spring and I’m hopeful that I can perhaps make a few of the things that you lads keep asking for. The brand is growing really well and it’s all driven by you guys. I have been sitting on the fence about the next step for handcraft but I have decided to try and take things one step further. I need help though as I can’t keep doing so many hours and being all over the country all the time.
I need people who can film, market some ideas, and help with our media as I haven’t ever actually advertised the business anywhere yet!
This week I’m making loads of tricknut basemix and I want to get that into as many people’s hands as possible. That’s the bait I haven’t pushed enough yet. Hookbait sales are just crazy every month now.

vossy1
Posts: 6415
vossy1
   Old Thread  #1073 23 Jun 2024 at 10.35am  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1070

I bought a couple of the paste kits to add to my method but I'm going to use some to roll dumbell bottoms. I bought a different sized baitmaster rolling table for it but tbh I think given the amount required I may make them on the smaller single hand table.
newcarper78
Posts: 880
newcarper78
   Old Thread  #1072 23 Jun 2024 at 10.31am  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1071
Not having the skipjack cause you've got them addicted to the Herb
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #1071 23 Jun 2024 at 10.04am  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1069
No nor me,ended up on 12 fish between two of us 10 fish to herb.I had one on pineapple wafter and my mate had a new pb on the p-rami wafter.This is on a water the bailiff said isn't producing much these days
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #1070 23 Jun 2024 at 10.01am  2  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1068
I can't even roll my eyes properly
newcarper78
Posts: 880
newcarper78
   Old Thread  #1069 23 Jun 2024 at 9.47am  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1067
Funny how some waters respond differently to different baits. Never really understood it myself.
vossy1
Posts: 6415
vossy1
   Old Thread  #1068 23 Jun 2024 at 9.11am  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1065
Might have to roll your own T, I wanted some dumbell bottoms (TN), no joy.
Perhaps if enough people wanted them it'd be worth rolling them, petition Gav time 🤣
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #1067 22 Jun 2024 at 10.30pm  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1066
I don't seem to be catching on the skipjack,could be just the water I'm on but Herb smashes it
newcarper78
Posts: 880
newcarper78
   Old Thread  #1066 22 Jun 2024 at 10.21pm  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1063
Hope you're doing well Gav. The skipjack is amazing, not only is it just as good as the herb its also effective at avoiding the coots, am able to fish all the bars i want and laugh at the little ****s who cant find the bait.

Top quality as always. Also love the stick mix, become a staple in my solid bags with the slickers.

Take care
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #1065 22 Jun 2024 at 8.08pm  0  Login    Register
On the bank now and The Herb is doing the business again,5 fish landed 1 lost.Tried different hookbaits but all have fell to the deadly Herb.Next order will be the dumbell wafters,15mm wafters and a good few kgs of 15mm and 12mm boilie.Can you do 12mm wafters Gav please
vossy1
Posts: 6415
vossy1
   Old Thread  #1064 13 May 2024 at 9.01pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1063
Good to see you back Gav
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #1063 13 May 2024 at 7.21pm  4  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1062
Evening lads!!
It’s been a while since I have looked in on the forum but I’m waiting for the kettle to boil and I thought I’d see what’s occurring!
I hope you are all well and catching loads!!
I’ll try and and answer some of your questions but I can see some nice feedback on the thread so I assume all is well! Good luck to all of you new customers and yes the skipjack is very popular right now. I always knew this one was another big fish bait but I’m already bored of dealing with tuna fish in brine 😂😂😂😂😂
I watched a guy catch 3 big U.K. 40s on the bounce this weekend on it and I’ll share some more captures next time I’m on here hopefully!
Tight lines
Wayne
Posts: 18680
Wayne
   Old Thread  #1062 9 May 2024 at 12.17pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1059
I thought the same regarding the Herb and Sting fishmeal........Smells divine and certainly catches its fair share of fish!

The Sting and Super squid HBs are my go to hookbaits.......
mrjcarter
Posts: 1280
mrjcarter
   Old Thread  #1061 8 May 2024 at 5.36pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1059
I've always fished with sting wafters over the herb and done well
vossy1
Posts: 6415
vossy1
   Old Thread  #1060 8 May 2024 at 5.01pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1059
Only problem I now have is what hookbaits to use with it. I’ll get the matching hard hookers and wafters obviously, but in my parcel today I also got wafters in Sting, Squid, MMT and Deep-C and they all smell amazing lol
Come to me little fishy...Gavs freebie plan working

In all honesty I put a hook bait list together at Xmas, it was ridiculously long, I'm amazed at my self restraint just ordering the matching 1's for the Tricknut (I'll tell the Mrs that...maybe leave out the DNA and AA bait order)

TBF to me I did order her a Solar Sofa Chair and today the Korum anychair table turned up for it...there's still got to be some good will mileage left...surely
MrNuvawun
Posts: 2042
MrNuvawun
   Old Thread  #1059 8 May 2024 at 4.53pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1058
Cheers for replies. My samples arrived today too. The Herb smells incredible, reminds me of the Sting Fishmeal shelflifes I did really well on years ago if I shut my eyes and inhale! Pretty sure I’m going to place and order for that next week. Only problem I now have is what hookbaits to use with it. I’ll get the matching hard hookers and wafters obviously, but in my parcel today I also got wafters in Sting, Squid, MMT and Deep-C and they all smell amazing lol
vossy1
Posts: 6415
vossy1
   Old Thread  #1058 8 May 2024 at 3.38pm  0  Login    Register
freezer bait it's turned up frozen in a polystyrene box (Inside a cardboard box)still frozen,
Same here today
TheNordenCarper
Posts: 786
TheNordenCarper
   Old Thread  #1057 8 May 2024 at 3.12pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1050
Every time I've ordered freezer bait it's turned up frozen in a polystyrene box (Inside a cardboard box)still frozen, then goes straight into the freezer at work no problems at all 👍
TheNordenCarper
Posts: 786
TheNordenCarper
   Old Thread  #1056 8 May 2024 at 3.12pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1050
Every time I've ordered freezer bait it's turned up frozen in a polystyrene box (Inside a cardboard box)still frozen, then goes straight into the freezer at work no problems at all 👍
vossy1
Posts: 6415
vossy1
   Old Thread  #1055 8 May 2024 at 11.55am  1  Login    Register
My order arrived today, very happy bunny, I hope Gavs not offended when I say the Tricknut smell reminds me of the old Cherry Carp CNC

Ians usually on the phone even if Gavs not about
MiniWelsh
Posts: 2189
MiniWelsh
   Old Thread  #1052 8 May 2024 at 11.27am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1050
As Wayne said FB Messenger is your best bet (I've always had replies within an hour so so of asking the questions).
Wayne
Posts: 18680
Wayne
   Old Thread  #1051 8 May 2024 at 9.16am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1050
If you have FB it would be better to message Gav questions on there as he dont come on here much now due to the normal bait shenanigans that go on.........
MrNuvawun
Posts: 2042
MrNuvawun
   Old Thread  #1050 5 May 2024 at 7.26pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1049
Ordered some wafters and samples this morning, then found some wafters I’d missed and ordered some more lol.
Not used Handcraft before, so a quick question for Gav or anyone else who can answer it… if I was to order freezer bait, is it rolled fresh and sent out before freezing, or is it sent already frozen?
Wayne
Posts: 18680
Wayne
   Old Thread  #1049 3 May 2024 at 12.38pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1048
Looking on social media it’s catching it’s fair share……
Pro-Blanker
Posts: 63
   Old Thread  #1048 1 May 2024 at 10.20pm  0  Login    Register
Hows the new bait holding up gav
Wayne
Posts: 18680
Wayne
   Old Thread  #1047 1 May 2024 at 2.44pm  1  Login    Register
New uk PB on the Super squids.........

Must give them MMT a try too.......
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #1046 7 Jan 2024 at 12.08pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1044
You won't regret it,best bait I've ever used
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #1045 3 Jan 2024 at 9.44pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1044
Happy new year buddy!
Yeah we had a long Xmas this year and bloody hell I needed it!
Came back to a busy old day today.
So much going on already and lots of nice new things to come out.
Soon be Christmas 😂😂
newcarper78
Posts: 880
newcarper78
   Old Thread  #1044 3 Jan 2024 at 1.52pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1043
Happy New Year to you too Keeperboy. I'm looking forward to a full year on your bait, (as always thanks to Braders for putting me onto Handcraft).

Definately looking forward to getting some of those Marmite wafters they sound great. Hope you had a nice break.

keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #1043 2 Jan 2024 at 8.11pm  3  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1042
Happy new year to you all! I hope you all caught shed loads of carp over the Xmas period and drank far too much ale 😂

We will be back to the grindstone this week and sorting out lots of orders but I just wanted to let you know that the mega little marmite based Wafters we were working on last year will be released in January.
I think some of you will really like these 😉
Based on the new test bait basemix but with marmite, yeasts, and a few secret little things that we really like, I have no doubt these will be up there with the squids, and herb products.
How much food can you cram in a 15mm wafter? Lots!!

Even bagged some nice carp myself in recent weeks but I’ll save that and the photos of your captures for the next time I get half hour free!!
Jimmers532
Posts: 762
   Old Thread  #1042 15 Nov 2023 at 10.05pm  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1037
Just ordered some tutti to go along with the squids, should be my winter hookbaits sorted there 🎣👍
Baitfingers
Posts: 61
   Old Thread  #1041 1 Nov 2023 at 7.41pm  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1039
Used last winter, about to switch back from Herb to Nutriplex again for the winter this year too.
It's done me very well, 100% confidence in it.
JackWhitstable
Posts: 187
JackWhitstable
   Old Thread  #1040 1 Nov 2023 at 5.40pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1039
From what I've read it sounds a quality bait for now
redduke
Posts: 557
redduke
   Old Thread  #1039 1 Nov 2023 at 2.50pm  0  Login    Register
Anyone using Nutriplex? Used over last winter etc?
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #1038 28 Oct 2023 at 7.16pm  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1037
Guaranteed carp catchers those bad boys
Jimmers532
Posts: 762
   Old Thread  #1037 28 Oct 2023 at 1.21pm  0  Login    Register
Just took delivery of some 12mm squids, they look and smell superb. Can’t wait to give them a try 🎣 will definitely be ordering some more soon.
MiniWelsh
Posts: 2189
MiniWelsh
   Old Thread  #1036 25 Oct 2023 at 10.27am  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1035
Hopefully I will add to that list over the next few days. Done well on the hookbaits this year, but tomorrow night will be the 1st time with the herb, so fingers crossed. Will send you pics if I'm fortunate enough to catch
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #1035 25 Oct 2023 at 8.16am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1034
Yep I have never known a boilie turn peoples results around quite like the herb.
I wish I could share all of the images and emails from people who use it but you all get to see plenty of bigguns on our media. God knows how many U.K. 40s I have to post at the moment!
CarpMadGaz
Posts: 72
CarpMadGaz
   Old Thread  #1034 24 Oct 2023 at 11.10pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #937
The herb just seems to pick out big carp looking at your FB and instagram.i can't wait to get fishing with it even know we are going into winter soon hopefully catch a few chunks next few weeks 👍
colors
Posts: 942
colors
   Old Thread  #1033 20 Oct 2023 at 9.51pm  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1030
Nutriplex as the main bait in the winter but I'll mix in some herb to keep it going in all year round then when it warms up Herb as the main bait but continue to use nutriplex. Im guessi g herb and tricknut by the looks of things are more popular than the plex but believe me I've seen it take some water apart it's a top top bait
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #1032 16 Oct 2023 at 7.44pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1030
That’s a hard call isn’t it
Herb is totally dominant in summer and everyone thinks that nut baits are better in the winter but I don’t believe that.
Nuts, oils, fats etc are better in summer
But Tricknut is a mixed bag like all of our baits, and contain birdfoods, milks, yeasts, soy etc to aid there digestible elements.
I think they all work well in cold if you use them in moderation!
Piling lots of protein rich boilies in during January don’t really work for me!
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #1031 16 Oct 2023 at 7.39pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1028
I have one pop up, made with basemix, that I’d take anywhere. It’s the Nutriplex matching 12mm pop up.
I then coat it in extra minamino (it’s rolled into the pop up mix) and I leave them to soak for a week. Those little 12mm boring looking dull pop ups have caught me many big carp when bright hi viz fails.
But my lads rate the squids (fishmeal)
Or the deep c with real tuna fish inside (I’m doing well on these)

I change from lake to lake once I work out wether bright is best or match the hatch.
I do find it hard not to cast out sting yellow 12mm as they always seem to produce for me from late autumn through to late spring.
ron83
Posts: 1982
ron83
   Old Thread  #1030 16 Oct 2023 at 6.43pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1029
Is everyone planning on staying on her for the winter or switch to the nut?
vossy1
Posts: 6415
vossy1
   Old Thread  #1029 16 Oct 2023 at 4.26pm  0  Login    Register
Looking at the nut and herb with great interest. For a very long time I've used a Banoffee and a seafood. For the 1st time I'm thinking if moving from a seafood (DNA S7) to the Herb. Just wish I could get some of the original Sectet Agent as a dip. The nut..hmm..think I may have to take the plunge even though not my pref flavour. I've rolled my own on a old CC Moore nut base, like this one its coarse and can be awkward to roll at home, yes I could have ground some if the ingredients finer I suppose. Wondering if my days of home rolling are over and tbh there are a lot of good baits about now.

Will be keeping a eye on this thread.

Edit, think I got confused with the Nutriplex, not moving from a fishmeal then...I'm blaming the codeine
mark1009
Posts: 4461
   Old Thread  #1028 16 Oct 2023 at 2.04pm  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1026
If i want a hookbait to use in December which one would you suggest? The water I'm fishing responds best to fishmeal based baits..Tia.
mrjcarter
Posts: 1280
mrjcarter
   Old Thread  #1027 16 Oct 2023 at 12.20pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1026
Another new one 😱
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #1026 15 Oct 2023 at 1.19pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1025
They will work fine buddy!
Real pepperami is only one ingredient of many and we all used to use pepperami in the colder months to good effect
They are proving really popular already and I’ll be sending them out from midweek onwards.
A tad excited about these and the other new one 😉
ron83
Posts: 1982
ron83
   Old Thread  #1025 15 Oct 2023 at 10.24am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1024
How do you think the p-rami wil fair in the colder months? I know next to nothing about bait but with real salami in it, wondered if the hard days would stay harder and leak out less when it's cold?
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #1024 15 Oct 2023 at 8.58am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1023
The most popular would be what you suggested
Sting pink, squids, deep c white.
Sometimes you have to be brave and try something far out like a p rami 😉😉
Jimmers532
Posts: 762
   Old Thread  #1023 15 Oct 2023 at 8.19am  0  Login    Register
Going to order some hookbaits, I want a pale pink and a white, which 2 am I going for lads ? Thinking sting in pink and deep c in white but I can’t make my mind up the pink squids look the nuts too as do the Eton mess 😂
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #1022 11 Oct 2023 at 7.08pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1021
Hoping to get them listed and on the site this weekend!
Was supposed to get it done on Monday but it’s been full on again
ron83
Posts: 1982
ron83
   Old Thread  #1021 8 Oct 2023 at 7.50am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1020
When will the p-rami be on the website?
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #1020 1 Oct 2023 at 7.22pm  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1017
Sting hookbait or Herb wafter over the top is deadly
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #1019 1 Oct 2023 at 4.45pm  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1017
I’m sure you will catch a few buddy!
Busted
Posts: 1735
   Old Thread  #1018 1 Oct 2023 at 4.33pm  2  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1017
It's an unbelievable boilie! Even compared to atlantic heat
MiniWelsh
Posts: 2189
MiniWelsh
   Old Thread  #1017 1 Oct 2023 at 2.26pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1016
Taken the plunge and ordered some herb boilies. I have been doing very well on various Handcraft hookbaits over Atlantic Heat but as the new almond wafters were calling to me and as I needed to top the freezer up it made sense to combine in one order. I have no doubt they will be a hit
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #1016 23 Sept 2023 at 5.04pm  2  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1015
I’ll be working on many new things in the future I promise
Right now it’s boring stuff like finishing the factory and speeding up the processes.
We are working on new hookbaits, boilies, and god knows what else but also working hard on the fishery.
Not enough hours in the day
But……..the fish being caught by you guys and other anglers is just mental
The big fully made it’s second visit to the bank and this time it was good old cabbie, 59.8 on the super squid over the test bait
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #1015 23 Sept 2023 at 9.23am  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1010
Will you be doing stick mix anytime soon Gav
Whoville
Posts: 370
Whoville
   Old Thread  #1013 22 Sept 2023 at 10.40pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1012
The Sting pop ups in yellow. Smashing my water up.
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #1012 22 Sept 2023 at 8.44pm  0  Login    Register
Sting dark wafter over the top of Herb and Tricknut strikes again for me.I absolutely love the Sting it just seems to produce the goods again and again
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #1011 21 Sept 2023 at 3.56pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1009
You are welcome buddy
Hope it brings you some good success!
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #1010 21 Sept 2023 at 3.56pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1008
Slightly elevated levels but only to allow for the fact they are dried out more.
JackWhitstable
Posts: 187
JackWhitstable
   Old Thread  #1009 20 Sept 2023 at 9.13pm  0  Login    Register
Getting back into carp fishing this year after 25 years out, been surface in the main this year until now.

Been looking for a boilie, so ordered Tricknut, a mixed order of freezer & shelf life, and different sizes for both. And Tricknut pellets.

Broke a few boilies open and they look absolute quality.

That smell is just incredible too.

And the postage/packing was super pro and quick.

Cheers guys.
MrFrosty
Posts: 574
   Old Thread  #1008 20 Sept 2023 at 8.59pm  0  Login    Register
Are the herb hard hookers boosted, or just standard levels made a bit harder?
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #1007 17 Sept 2023 at 2.46pm  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1006
The first of many
carpbandit84
Posts: 3762
carpbandit84
   Old Thread  #1006 17 Sept 2023 at 9.03am  3  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1005
Well what can I say.
First night using the squid wafter as a topper with an essential B5 and I catch one of my target fish 30lb 2oz common, only my 2nd 30 from here in 2 1/2 years ..happy days, knew they looked good 😀
carpbandit84
Posts: 3762
carpbandit84
   Old Thread  #1005 14 Sept 2023 at 9.54pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1004
Thanks for the warm welcome mate, it sounds like its onwards and upwards for the company, well done 👏
Looking forward to trying the baits out, maybe even this weekend if the postage has a fair wind
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #1004 14 Sept 2023 at 8.53pm  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1003
Welcome back buddy
It’s been a busy few years 😂
The Herb is certainly popular. The name comes from a few herbs and spices and a little bit of a private joke with the handcraft lads way back in the beginning. I remember one lad saying that the name “the herb” wouldn’t catch on, but we look back and chuckle now.
All of that aside. If you saw it being made and saw what goes into it then you will understand why it will catch a few. But even I am surprised as to how popular and effective it has become.
The hookbait sales are very good, they have gone far and wide! The squid……it just catches so many big carp!!
Keep your eyes peeled for the new one due out soon. And the one after that if we can nail it!!
New squid bait……..going to need to change it I think as one main element is maybe not going to be available to us.
Lots going on but just keep an eye on our catch reports……….the one thing you can’t lie about 😉
carpbandit84
Posts: 3762
carpbandit84
   Old Thread  #1003 14 Sept 2023 at 7.55pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #1001
That's great news, I read the details on the squid hookbaits and just thought that's a bit of me and had to order some. The herb does look gd. I'm curious though, why the name The Herb? Feels a little misleading, I was thinking it was going to be a hemp based bait with maybe something alternative like pea protein herbs and spices I see fenugreek but I wasn't expecting an out and out fishmeal
maplecream
Posts: 656
   Old Thread  #1002 14 Sept 2023 at 5.06pm  0  Login    Register
Great service as usual, order arrived within 2 days.
The herb is a v special bait, without doubt the best bait I've used, since I stopped making my own years back.
MrFrosty
Posts: 574
   Old Thread  #1001 14 Sept 2023 at 1.37pm  1  Login    Register
Gave a mate my tub of pink squid pop ups and my herb hard hookbaits for a france trip he went on last month. He’s catching so many on them he doesn’t want to give them back
carpbandit84
Posts: 3762
carpbandit84
   Old Thread  #1000 13 Sept 2023 at 11.59pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #999
I've not been on the forums properly for a while, not sure how I missed this company. Just placed an order to try some pink squid popups and wafters and herb wafters, plus asked for some samples, looks really good quality bait and I know the guys know there some, been following gav and keeperboy since early blakes days. I'm particularly interested in the original koi rearer in the squid and the new squid bait, but it all looks great, the herb and Nutriplex🙂
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #999 8 Sept 2023 at 7.47am  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #997
Nice bloke is Martin.
I’m sure we will be seeing more of him soon and that fully is something special!
Frenzy
Posts: 11403
Frenzy
MODERATOR
   Old Thread  #998 8 Sept 2023 at 7.22am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #996
Thats a stunning fish
midlandman
Posts: 3406
midlandman
   Old Thread  #997 7 Sept 2023 at 11.58pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #996
Big respect for Martin. He’s been catching them for decades now.
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #996 5 Sept 2023 at 8.38pm  5  Login    Register
In reply to Post #995


Martin Clarke bagged his second 60lb plus UK carp in 12 nights which we think is probably a first. Also caught on The Herb.

Fair play to Martin, what a year he is having.
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #995 5 Sept 2023 at 8.35pm  3  Login    Register
In reply to Post #994


Just back from a mega trip to Sumbar, myself and nine Handcraft lads caught over 450 carp including:
1x 70lb
9x 60lb
20x 50lb
90x 40lb
170x 30lb

We went through 600kg of The Herb.
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #994 3 Sept 2023 at 5.18pm  2  Login    Register
In reply to Post #993
Hi lads.
Glad things are going well for you all.
I have just returned from Croatia and the fishing was incredible!
Many of our lads took the new sting pink, squids, deep c and herb boilies.
I have no idea how many carp we caught but it was hundreds!
You know it’s prolific when you return 40s and even 50s without photos.
As a group they are all loving the sting pinks and I had a feeling they would be popular!
The new hookbaits are coming along and we will be making more test batches this week hopefully.
Apologies for the lack of content on here but I’ll catch up in winter 🌧️😂😂
pearbo
Posts: 1519
pearbo
   Old Thread  #993 3 Sept 2023 at 3.35pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #990
Only take Saturday between about 7 anglers on my side of the lake, pink sting pop up
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #992 2 Sept 2023 at 1.57pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #991
It was a very weird fight and didn't have a clue what it was,I was really shocked when it hit the surface
MiniWelsh
Posts: 2189
MiniWelsh
   Old Thread  #991 2 Sept 2023 at 12.15pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #990
My pb pike was also caught on a yellow sting wafter
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #990 2 Sept 2023 at 12.03pm  0  Login    Register
Is there anything Sting doesn't catch,had a lovely 23lb mirror this morning but now the pike are loving a 15mm yellow sting wafter
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #989 21 Aug 2023 at 2.34pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #987
Not sure if it will be this year.
We have just been far too busy to launch anything else.
We are very happy with the most up to date version of the squid bait. It’s a nice dark chocolate brown colour, and smells nice. Just waiting to see what’s happening to the squid hydro that goes in it as it’s about to change
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #988 20 Aug 2023 at 9.45pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #977
When's this big announcement coming Gav
lilharbs
Posts: 1568
lilharbs
   Old Thread  #987 20 Aug 2023 at 9.40pm  0  Login    Register
When is the new squid bait out Gav?
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #986 11 Aug 2023 at 8.43am  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #985
This week has been particularly crazy!
I keep telling myself that it will soon be winter and I can sit around drinking tea in the office 😂
newcarper78
Posts: 880
newcarper78
   Old Thread  #985 10 Aug 2023 at 9.23pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #984
You haven't got any spare minutes. You used them all up rolling boilies
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #984 10 Aug 2023 at 9.19pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #983
I’ll measure one when I get a minute 😂
newcarper78
Posts: 880
newcarper78
   Old Thread  #983 10 Aug 2023 at 8.41pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #982
Personally i think the 15mm comes out slightly larger than some 15mm i have used in the past.
dannyuk32
Posts: 1395
dannyuk32
   Old Thread  #982 10 Aug 2023 at 1.33pm  0  Login    Register
Guys,
Thinking of ordering some Tricknut, Boilies, Wafters, Pop Ups.
Just not sure on the mm size, wether to get 15s or 20s.
Usually I use 16 and 18 mm.
Compared to most Boilies out there right now, would you say these are on the small or large size?
If it helps I'm using Sticky Krill and Manilla in 16mm.
I got the sample pack and they were 12 millers lol.
mrjcarter
Posts: 1280
mrjcarter
   Old Thread  #981 3 Aug 2023 at 5.40pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #977
New boilie 😁😁 and I'm all out.. good timing
newcarper78
Posts: 880
newcarper78
   Old Thread  #980 2 Aug 2023 at 11.02pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #977
ooh new boilie. I will definately try some of that.
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #979 2 Aug 2023 at 10.35pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #977
If its the new boilie and available in shelflife put me down for 10kg infact if it's freezer only I will still have 10kg and claim my bait freezer back
Mattsaunders
Posts: 141
   Old Thread  #978 2 Aug 2023 at 10.28pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #975
Can't wait to try the new squid bait on my syndicate they love the Herb and Tricknut as you know Gav. 👍🏽🎣
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #977 2 Aug 2023 at 9.30pm  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #976
The new boilie yes
New hookbaits no 😉
newcarper78
Posts: 880
newcarper78
   Old Thread  #976 2 Aug 2023 at 9.17pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #975
Oooh intriguing. Is it squid related?
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #975 2 Aug 2023 at 8.34pm  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #974
Evening all, great news muz, you were lucky this week as we have started running a tad behind. The boilie sales have been crazy and I’m back to working long shifts with the lads to keep up.
Hookbaits we are on the ball with and these just keep piling out of the door like they always do!
Good luck with them and keep an eye out for some new stuff from us in the next few weeks
Gav
Muz
Posts: 335
   Old Thread  #974 2 Aug 2023 at 9.19am  0  Login    Register
Just thought I’d post a thumbs up for handcraft,I placed an order with them yesterday midday, arrived 9am this morning.
Very helpfull e mails replied to straight away.
Hopefully one or two of the big ones will like it.





MiniWelsh
Posts: 2189
MiniWelsh
   Old Thread  #973 24 Jul 2023 at 6.29pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #971
My top up order will be in either tonight or tomorrow. More Eton Mess and some squids, pink is doing the business for me
Muz
Posts: 335
   Old Thread  #972 24 Jul 2023 at 5.47pm  0  Login    Register
What are the delivery times on orders please ?

keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #971 24 Jul 2023 at 5.32pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #970
They certainly won’t fail you in the buoyancy department!!
God knows how many went out of the door today and tomorrow looks another busy one!
The squids are really producing well for many of the Colne valley boys and the sting is certainly very consistent at the moment!
Also quite a few captures on the pink Eton mess which seems to be having a revival
lilharbs
Posts: 1568
lilharbs
   Old Thread  #970 24 Jul 2023 at 4.14pm  0  Login    Register
They stay up for days, no problem at all.
lilharbs
Posts: 1568
lilharbs
   Old Thread  #969 24 Jul 2023 at 4.14pm  0  Login    Register
They stay up for days, no problem at all.
Muz
Posts: 335
   Old Thread  #968 24 Jul 2023 at 2.07pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #967
I wouldn’t no I’ve not used them that’s why I asked the question.
Which you’ve answered 👍🏻
Glenn_B
Posts: 1804
Glenn_B
   Old Thread  #967 24 Jul 2023 at 12.08pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #964
If you need to plug a Handcraft pop up then you are using an anchor for a hook😂
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #966 24 Jul 2023 at 10.48am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #964
The 12's hold up a ronnie for well over 48hrs so a 15 will hold a hinge for days I would imagine.You will need a lot of putty to hold it down though
MiniWelsh
Posts: 2189
MiniWelsh
   Old Thread  #965 24 Jul 2023 at 7.26am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #964
I use the 12s and they hold up a size 4 for more than enough time for my needs (dont leave out for more than 24 hours), no need to plug
Muz
Posts: 335
   Old Thread  #964 23 Jul 2023 at 11.40pm  0  Login    Register
Just had a look at the handcraft website,I just wondered if anyone could tell me are the 15mm pop ups buoyant enough to hold up hinges for a good period of time ?or are people plugging them?
Thanks
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #963 23 Jul 2023 at 10.28pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #962
Top angling buddy.
Glad to see them all still working! There has been a huge surge in catch reports again this week. Some better weather coming too
MiniWelsh
Posts: 2189
MiniWelsh
   Old Thread  #962 23 Jul 2023 at 8.09am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #961
Having a decent start on my new syndicate, 3 nights 5 runs 4 of which coming to the Eton Mess and the other to Banoffee. As always these baits seem to catch from the off
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #961 22 Jun 2023 at 6.53pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #960
Primers
Pva friendly to a point!
You can put it over crumb and inside solid bags, they are made out of nothing but hydro liquids but when you buy 1000 litres of hydro liquids in IBC containers it isn’t uncommon to see water separated on top of them.
Most of our lads inject these into crumb and pellets for pva bag work
pearbo
Posts: 1519
pearbo
   Old Thread  #960 22 Jun 2023 at 2.55pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #958
Are the primers pva friendly? And if I were to fish a lake that had a house bait such as cell that I’m going to be forced to use is there any benefit to dumping a primer bottle over the top of them?
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #959 20 Jun 2023 at 5.44pm  2  Login    Register
In reply to Post #958
I'm hoping it causes me a few too,when my alarms start screaming
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #958 19 Jun 2023 at 9.00pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #957
That one is causing me a few sleepless nights 😂
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #957 19 Jun 2023 at 8.41pm  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #956
We are all waiting on this Squid bait now
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #956 19 Jun 2023 at 8.36pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #955
I have said many times that I personally catch bigger fish on fishmeals and probably always will, that’s why I put some in Tricknut!
I have to say though that I looked around for a proper nut boilie before I made Tricknut and there were very few options that I could see actually contained big chunks of nut or in fact any nuts at all!!
It tastes nice to me too 😂
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #955 19 Jun 2023 at 4.26pm  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #954
I didn't say small fish,I said Herb catches the bigger better stamp of fish
pearbo
Posts: 1519
pearbo
   Old Thread  #954 19 Jun 2023 at 3.35pm  2  Login    Register
In reply to Post #953
I’m not going to stand here and blame the bait for catching small fish, I just can’t do it 😂
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #953 19 Jun 2023 at 2.16pm  2  Login    Register
In reply to Post #951
I fish Herb and Tricknut together,Herb catches the bigger fish but Tricknut seems to catch more.I have definitely had the better stamp of fish on the Herb
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #952 19 Jun 2023 at 12.18pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #951
Tricknut is lush, proper nut bait that one
You will be surprised who uses it and where it goes! Just overshadowed by the blooming herb! I am shipping a lot of Tricknut out of the door today, prime time for nut baits!
pearbo
Posts: 1519
pearbo
   Old Thread  #951 19 Jun 2023 at 7.33am  0  Login    Register
Does no one use tricknut? I caught a few using the herb but since fishing the little yellow sting pop ups over tricknut I’m sure I’ve had more.
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #950 18 Jun 2023 at 3.45pm  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #949
Another top result Matt!!
Mattsaunders
Posts: 141
   Old Thread  #949 18 Jun 2023 at 1.02pm  1  Login    Register
Just got back fro my syndicate using the Herb and primer. Had 6 fish 5 20s and a 36.2 amazing bait. Used it along with hemp tigers and corn. My pal 2 pegs away blanked 🤫
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #948 16 Jun 2023 at 5.43pm  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #946
Order a sample pack on the website,add a note you would like some of the new squid bait
Whoville
Posts: 370
Whoville
   Old Thread  #947 16 Jun 2023 at 11.20am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #943
Ha i already poured my heart to you on instagram
Gregc1980
Posts: 1545
   Old Thread  #946 16 Jun 2023 at 7.26am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #944
Any samples of the new hook baits mate 👍 going to switch over to the herb very soon when I finished with the last 10kg of s7
Mattsaunders
Posts: 141
   Old Thread  #945 15 Jun 2023 at 9.56pm  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #944
Gavin you Tease! 😂😂
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #944 15 Jun 2023 at 9.01pm  4  Login    Register
In reply to Post #942
We have been working on some new hookbaits this year, I don’t think it’s been done before and it will be a completely new train of thought but I can see them being a little bit different to anything we have seen before. The deep c with real tuna fish inside them has opened up a new world of possibilities.
It’s all a bit hush hush for now but we have been busy behind the scenes!
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #943 15 Jun 2023 at 8.55pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #940
Herb certainly seems popular and that is a sign of a good product. We haven’t found a venue where it hasn’t worked yet (I’m sure someone has somewhere).
I haven’t been able to pre bait a venue for over a decade now and it does not worry me at all, as I just go in with what I know works.
It’s full of nice things and salts and minerals and high in fishmeal. And I have none in stock again 😂
newcarper78
Posts: 880
newcarper78
   Old Thread  #942 14 Jun 2023 at 11.13pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #940
They do a pack of samples you can order for the price of delivery. They send you the boilies in the range and some random pop ups.

For the cost of a pint, get the the samples and try em. You wont go wrong, you really wont.
mattycarphunter
Posts: 1279
mattycarphunter
   Old Thread  #941 14 Jun 2023 at 4.42pm  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #940
get on Herb. I fish a local water that's similar, sees a lot of Krill, Hydra K and Cell, first trip down there I had 8 fish on herb, in the previous 48 hours there had been 3 fish out on the whole lake. Definitely works from the off.

Tip - empty the baits into a container, pour boiling water over them (12 hours before your trip) the end result will be mega soft baits to use as freebies, wafter over the top job's a good un

Matt
Whoville
Posts: 370
Whoville
   Old Thread  #940 14 Jun 2023 at 9.17am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #922
I’m not asking to be convinced. But I’m tempted to switch to this from Sticky

I’m fishing a water where it sees so much pre baiting and natural food that I want something with good nutrition that works from the off

Anyone in this thread had a similar predicament
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #939 27 May 2023 at 7.12am  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #938
He deserved that one didn’t he, he’s been very close on at least two occasions and we talked that one into the net last week. He came out late in the draw (just like I did), he ended up the same swim as I did the year before, and fished very similar ground.
He was proper chuffed to finally get his hands on it and who wouldn’t be! A mint 64lb U.K. fish won’t happen many times in your life. And how big can it go??
scaley&dark
Posts: 5390
   Old Thread  #938 26 May 2023 at 11.16pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #933
Congratulations on the capture Martin

keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #937 26 May 2023 at 9.21pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #936


This small but very beautiful carp took a sting pop up. We have sold out of sting pop ups and squid pop ups nearly every week since March.
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #936 26 May 2023 at 9.18pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #935


A recent mega upper 30lb caught by Liam half a wrap style.
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #935 26 May 2023 at 9.16pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #934





Two typical fish from our new fishery - Tuckey Farm from a recent test fish. They were caught over the Herb and Royal Supreme Pellets.
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #934 26 May 2023 at 9.13pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #933


My good mate Nick has battered Wasing in the last year and this is one of many crackers that he has caught on the Super Squids recently.
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #933 26 May 2023 at 9.11pm  4  Login    Register


Well known angler, Martin Clarke is on the Herb and he got the fish of his dreams. A UK 64 lb common. Well done Mr. Clarke.
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #932 26 May 2023 at 9.03pm  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #931
Evening all
Finally got a full day off and some time to think now that the carp are spawning.
There has been some mega carp caught in the last month and I’ll try and post a pic once I have caught up on some PMs
Even I caught some carp!
Pics to follow
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #931 9 May 2023 at 7.09pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #926
Glad you liked them mate and have done so well on them!!
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #930 9 May 2023 at 7.08pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #923
Yes buddy you can order samples on the site and just pay the postage and in the delivery notes section you can ask for something specific in there (shelf life, freezer, certain pop up samples etc)
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #929 9 May 2023 at 7.06pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #925
Should be with you by Thursday if I see it on our system tomorrow!
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #928 9 May 2023 at 7.04pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #927
Hi mate, it’s been a long way down the priority order at the moment so it won’t be soon. I have been juggling handcraft and the new fishery and it’s all been a little bit crazy
But……..I am still tinkering with a few little bits for the new one and I’m running something around in my head to make it a tad different. More on that later but I just need a few weeks to catch up on everything. We have very little bait in stock yet again this week but we are catching up on hookbaits slowly! Apologies again for not being on here too much recently but I just forget about it all at times!!
That new test bait could be a big thing for handcraft but I just need a bit more time to get it perfect.
If you churn out any old **** it will always backfire!
I’d like to share some of the special fish being caught right now but I literally do not have the time. All can be seen on our own media if you want to have a look!
Herb and sting is doing its thing 😉😉
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #927 9 May 2023 at 6.28pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #922
Any news on when the new squid bait will be available
Busted
Posts: 1735
   Old Thread  #926 9 May 2023 at 6.22pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #923
If it helps, i used the freezer herb and ordered 30 kilo of shelf life for a match in France. I won the match by over 200lb and now only use the shelf life version. Not too soft and the fish love it as much as the freezer bait
CV-Deano
Posts: 343
   Old Thread  #925 9 May 2023 at 5.26pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #923
Good thing about the shelfies is you can order in 1kg bags I’ve just seen. Give you a good chance to test and look at the bait without committing to a larger amount. I’ve just done the same with the nut bait with my last order.
Riggy
Posts: 2031
Riggy
   Old Thread  #924 9 May 2023 at 7.19am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #923
You can order samples via the website, you just pay for P+P.

https://handcraftbaits.co.uk/product/sample-boilies/


Michael
Jimmers532
Posts: 762
   Old Thread  #923 8 May 2023 at 10.19pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #922
Hi mate, any samples available for the shelflife herb ? I’m struggling for freezer space so need to switch to shelflife and your baits look great, haven’t read a bad word !
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #922 2 May 2023 at 9.35pm  2  Login    Register
In reply to Post #921
Ah the sting!
Last week myself and some very good anglers headed off to France to a new gravel pit I have been watching.
It was cold, wet and moody.
The fish didn’t seem keen to feed and at one point we discussed leaving early as we all have lots to do at home and children that we miss etc.
On the Tuesday one lad had a bite on a single sting 12mm pop up and that was the turning point.
By moving, getting on them repeatedly and fishing single sting 12mm pop ups everyone caught and we ended up on 58 carp to 61lb.
Never in all my years have I seen a trip turned around by such a change!
I still do not know if it was the hookbaits, the fact we fished them as singles, if they get fed yellow maize or what! I just know that all 8 of us got on them and the bites came!
Ended up being a really good trip to baleine and I left my last 12 pop ups with the owner!!
France was really behind this year but I’m told the lads are smashing them all over France on bait this week.
Sold out of sting, herb and tricknut again this week…….even with late nights, night shifts, we just can’t keep up anymore!
MiniWelsh
Posts: 2189
MiniWelsh
   Old Thread  #921 30 Apr 2023 at 9.51pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #920
My mates just had a 47lber on a sting pop up in France. His 1st French fish and ended a long blanking run for him, so to say he is over the moon with the fish and bait is an understatement
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #920 24 Apr 2023 at 5.25pm  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #919
Glad you liked it Mate
Catch reports are different league this year 😉
You will catch more for sure
newcarper78
Posts: 880
newcarper78
   Old Thread  #919 24 Apr 2023 at 4.55pm  2  Login    Register
BUY HERB!

This bait and all products at Handcraft are god tier, buy more!

Second session on a new syndicate, 30lb8oz on a Squid large dumbell over herb.

Advert ends
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #918 17 Apr 2023 at 10.50am  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #917
Afternoon all!

Today I received some Simply awesome catch reports!
A uk 60lb common
A U.K. 57.12 special common!
A french 71

A U.K. 50 mirror
Several 40s
God knows how many 30s and that’s all Friday to Sunday!!
Spring is defo here and the orders are knee deep!
I’m off for a few days and I couldn’t have picked a worse week to have off 😂
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #917 4 Apr 2023 at 8.40pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #916
😂😂😂 be good and be careful with the DIY, you do not want an injury in prime time 😂😂
Clobersauraus
Posts: 753
Clobersauraus
   Old Thread  #916 4 Apr 2023 at 7.09pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #914
Hi Gav,

Baits arrived today, cant wait to give them a try…got a bit of DIY to do before the fun prevention officer will allow me to go fishing.

Thanks for such a prompt turn round.
mrjcarter
Posts: 1280
mrjcarter
   Old Thread  #915 30 Mar 2023 at 11.57pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #913
Can't stop catching on the sting.
Insane hookbait 👌🏼💪🏻
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #914 30 Mar 2023 at 11.04pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #913
Hello mate
We sold out again this week, we will have more middle of next week if we can keep things moving along!
Clobersauraus
Posts: 753
Clobersauraus
   Old Thread  #913 30 Mar 2023 at 10.33pm  0  Login    Register
Just placed my first order, when will the yellow sting 12mm pop ups be back in stock?

Looking forward to giving these baits a try..exceptional feedback….
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #912 28 Mar 2023 at 8.09pm  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #911
Great news mate
You won’t go wrong with da erb!!
Sold out of all of it this week, we did that all year last year and it’s already happening.
Must go faster 😂
newcarper78
Posts: 880
newcarper78
   Old Thread  #911 28 Mar 2023 at 2.30pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #908
My local day ticket carp certainly liked the samples you sent out. I chickened out with my order and just went for Herb, i dont want to get obsessed with the Tricknut or Nutriplex then have the Squid come out lol.
MiniWelsh
Posts: 2189
MiniWelsh
   Old Thread  #910 27 Mar 2023 at 1.21pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #908
Just doing an inventory of what I've got and what I need and will then be getting an order on ready for France end of next month
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #909 27 Mar 2023 at 7.40am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #907
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #908 27 Mar 2023 at 7.40am  3  Login    Register
In reply to Post #907
If you want to see a crazy amount of carp just look on the handcraft page this week. I think it’s safe to safe spring has sprung.
The latest batch of the squid bait has been sent out and is already catching some carp (fair and square)
I’ll get some more sorted for those of you who wanted to try it
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #907 25 Mar 2023 at 7.16am  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #906
That won’t be out for a fair while yet mate
Lots to do and test yet
CV-Deano
Posts: 343
   Old Thread  #906 24 Mar 2023 at 10.52pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #905
Sounds just the job mate! Will definitely add to my next order. Any approx release date for the squid bait? Wondering if its worth holding off ordering to grab some.
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #905 24 Mar 2023 at 5.56pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #904
Hello mate
That squid will stain most things black or dark grey 😂😂
My hands, the jugs, bait, pellets, you name it!
We are going through lots of the squid and the new tuna hydro which I rate massively!
CV-Deano
Posts: 343
   Old Thread  #904 23 Mar 2023 at 8.56pm  0  Login    Register
Anyone used the new squid liquid? I’m wondering how much it darkens up the herb? I like the herb but much prefer a darker bait than the red of the herb.
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #903 21 Mar 2023 at 9.37pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #902
No problem,they smell Kraken sorry that's bad even for me
Beyonce
Posts: 1416
   Old Thread  #902 21 Mar 2023 at 9.33pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #900
Thanks
newcarper78
Posts: 880
newcarper78
   Old Thread  #901 21 Mar 2023 at 9.10pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #895
That squid mix must really stink then if it's that bad when you're surrounded by so many weird and wonderful bait smells.

Certainly smells nice when it's made up. Thanks for the update
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #900 21 Mar 2023 at 8.50pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #899
They are a dark brown
Beyonce
Posts: 1416
   Old Thread  #899 21 Mar 2023 at 8.45pm  0  Login    Register
What colour do the squid baits come out Gav?
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #898 21 Mar 2023 at 8.06pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #897
Thanks Gav
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #897 21 Mar 2023 at 8.01pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #896
Yes mate
I am pretty confident we can do it in shelf life. I will be running a few batches off next time I get chance
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #896 21 Mar 2023 at 7.54pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #895
Is there going to be a shelflife squid,my wife won't be happy if I empty my bait freezer she borrowed over a year ago
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #895 21 Mar 2023 at 7.36pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #894
Evening lads.
Squid samples have been popular. We are about to make another 150kg or so of it so we can keep spreading the bait around a bit further afield.
We have a few lads taking it into Europe in the next two weeks and more using it back here.
A wafter and a pop up are in Pidges hands now with all of the squid additives and basemix being used as per normal for us.
Be nice to see a few of them cast out matching the bait.
There is a huge downside…….the basemix stinks 😂😂 ruined my clothes, warehouse and anything it touched!
Herb was bad enough but I have grown to like it, this one is going to take some getting used too 😳
Crazy amount of carp being caught this week, 40s for fun!!
Comebackkid
Posts: 134
Comebackkid
   Old Thread  #894 21 Mar 2023 at 7.03pm  0  Login    Register
Am I correct in thinking there is a new (Squid) bait around the corner?

braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #893 21 Mar 2023 at 11.13am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #892
Yeah they do,decisions decisions
newcarper78
Posts: 880
newcarper78
   Old Thread  #892 21 Mar 2023 at 9.56am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #891
They just smell that damn good don't they. Difficult choice, and one i have no answers too lol. I will start on Herb and tricknut and just try to figure something out when the Squid releases. Good job we have a while to work it out as all of the baits smell good.
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #891 21 Mar 2023 at 8.54am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #879
Just took delivery of my Squid bait samples and I see what you mean.The thing is now do I drop Herb or Tricknut,I don't want three boilies but always like to have two different baits
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #890 17 Mar 2023 at 8.18pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #887
No I’m agreeing with you mate. I have found certain waters where they catch me the majority of my fish and yet others they can be useless. I was never a fan of pink hookbaits and really struggled on them until the squid was launched!
I often wonder if certain colours are flogged to death at venues and they become ones to avoid.
Last year I fished a fairly easy runs water and the pop ups caught a lot less than the food bait dark Wafters. The reason was simply that all spring they had been battered on bright pop ups and when I fished it in the summer, the baits on the deck were far more effective!
That’s common on busy venues
MiniWelsh
Posts: 2189
MiniWelsh
   Old Thread  #889 17 Mar 2023 at 7.47am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #887
For me it depends on the overall circumstance. Yellow does well through winter for me but I have caught on it in the summer when used fishing over particle. The dark I tend to use as a bottom bait (the hard hooker is such a durable hookbait) and I also have the 12mm pop up I use on snowmen during the warmer months if I want something a little more subtle than my typical yellow tippers. I think it can be very water dependent though as the lakes I fish I have never had a touch on the Krill & Cal yet I know plenty of people bag up on that bait. That's the great thing about fishing, you can rarely simply copy someone else and get the same results and you need to try a few things to work it out for yourself
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #888 17 Mar 2023 at 6.41am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #887
I find the yellow is the best winter and spring,I switch to the brown in the summer/autumn.I think they get battered on most waters with bright baits in the colder months and that switch can keep the bites coming.
Pro-Blanker
Posts: 63
   Old Thread  #887 17 Mar 2023 at 6.27am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #884
I was not knocking it gav , not at all mate far from it . I prob came across wrong .
Hand craft is my go 2 for baits , hence after talking you yestaday morning on pm im placing another order with you next week .
I was just saying the big c and squid for me have outfished it also herb in france last year and i have done me realy well on ur other baits .
Its prob just me using the little yellow sting wrong time of year or venues more suited to the others or me putting more time on others .
Do you find much diffrence catch rates in yellow or brown ? Mite chuck some brown on my order next week
For me bic c brown over white has done better but as said iv prob using wrong colers wtong times of year
Thanks


pearbo
Posts: 1519
pearbo
   Old Thread  #886 16 Mar 2023 at 9.04pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #884
pearbo
Posts: 1519
pearbo
   Old Thread  #885 16 Mar 2023 at 9.04pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #884
Just had a pot of the sting pop up delivered, stuck them under the mrs nose this morning, I hope the carp are keener.
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #884 16 Mar 2023 at 8.45pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #883
Funny isn’t it! For many anglers it’s there go to hookbait and it’s defo one of my blank savers!
My answer is always use whatever you sit behind confidently!!
I’ll have a sting out there tomorrow 😉
Pro-Blanker
Posts: 63
   Old Thread  #883 16 Mar 2023 at 10.43am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #882
Funny thing is i cant catch a bite on the yellow sting . Used it for a year or so and nothing.
But other 2 rods with the the squid pop up and the big c crab catch me every time and love em. . Maybe i try a brown sting next time
MiniWelsh
Posts: 2189
MiniWelsh
   Old Thread  #882 15 Mar 2023 at 2.00pm  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #877
Sting hookbaits have outfished anything else I have used for the last 18 months. Had a new pb and lake record yesterday on a sting hard hookbait
Wayne
Posts: 18680
Wayne
   Old Thread  #881 15 Mar 2023 at 6.55am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #874
Excellent, off down the lake for 2 days tomorrow so hoping to bag a few with the hookbaits and the samples…….
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #880 14 Mar 2023 at 10.02pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #879
newcarper78
Posts: 880
newcarper78
   Old Thread  #879 14 Mar 2023 at 10.01pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #878
You should in my opinion, the squid samples are worth the postage alone.
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #878 14 Mar 2023 at 9.20pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #877
The customer service is always spot on too,might order some samples to smell the new squid bait.
newcarper78
Posts: 880
newcarper78
   Old Thread  #877 14 Mar 2023 at 8.35pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #873
The herb is crazy, it has an almost addictive smell to it lol. I will get on the herb until the squid is done I think and maybe fish them together. I do fancy the sting wafters in the 15mm dark and maybe some squid or deep c hookbaits also.

Thanks for the recommendation, will definitely be placing an order.
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #876 14 Mar 2023 at 8.25pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #873
Glad you and the lads like them mate!!
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #875 14 Mar 2023 at 8.25pm  2  Login    Register
In reply to Post #871
The squid has a long way to go yet
We will be making hookbait test batches soon
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #874 14 Mar 2023 at 8.24pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #872
Of course you can buddy as long as we pre arrange it
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #873 14 Mar 2023 at 8.09pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #871
I'm glad you like them,I didn't think for one second you wouldn't.The Sting fished over the Herb is an instant winner,the 12mm pop ups are so buoyant its almost unbelievable
Wayne
Posts: 18680
Wayne
   Old Thread  #872 14 Mar 2023 at 4.19pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #871
That Squid bait does have a nice twang to it!!

Just got to get through all this bug I have and then will be using the herb and squid when it’s out!

Your so close to where I work Gav, is collecting an option?
newcarper78
Posts: 880
newcarper78
   Old Thread  #871 14 Mar 2023 at 1.49pm  0  Login    Register
Thanks for sending the samples through Keeperboy. You were recommended to me by Braders and he wasn't wrong, the boilies smell amazing!

Can i ask how long until the Squid is availble to buy? The Herb smells amazing but that Squid bait is out of this world. Can't wait to try that!

Thanks again.
Wayne
Posts: 18680
Wayne
   Old Thread  #870 14 Mar 2023 at 8.36am  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #869
Excellent and will do…….
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #869 13 Mar 2023 at 7.09pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #867
Yours went out today mate so will arrive tomorrow!!
Be interesting to hear your thoughts on the test bait?
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #868 13 Mar 2023 at 7.08pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #866
Thanks and the same to you!
Wayne
Posts: 18680
Wayne
   Old Thread  #867 13 Mar 2023 at 7.10am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #865
Cheers Gav….. much appreciated…..
TCarper
Posts: 3777
   Old Thread  #866 12 Mar 2023 at 6.32pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #865
Good luck for the upcoming year.
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #865 12 Mar 2023 at 5.33pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #864
Hello mate just seen it come through! I’ll be on it tomorrow and I’ll put samples in for you too!

It will be a very busy week again!
Apologies to the guys on here who I haven’t replied to but I am sort of keeping my head down at the moment. Myself and Pidge are full bore and our own media is relentless at times.
Jan/feb and early March have been just crazy and that means very little fishing for me (that’s when I check this forum 😂
I have been working on the fisheries, tidying the factory, buying this years ingredients and putting in the hours.

Some mega fish being caught including a nice 42 today to a really nice guy. It’s been a good winter for some anglers but the worst one ever for me as I haven’t been much! Let’s hope that changes 😉😉
Good times are nearly here!!
Wayne
Posts: 18680
Wayne
   Old Thread  #864 12 Mar 2023 at 5.11pm  0  Login    Register
Hook baits for the year order placed…….
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #863 26 Feb 2023 at 3.05pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #862
Don’t worry mate, there will be various batches kicking about 😉
bmthman
Posts: 858
bmthman
   Old Thread  #862 26 Feb 2023 at 9.41am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #858
That’s a shame I will need some bait for the lakes soon, was hoping to try and use the same bait for both Carp and Barbel this year.
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #861 25 Feb 2023 at 5.58pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #860
I will get a big batch made soon but I’m concentrating on making sure we have enough herb first!
I’ll spread the new one about for sure 😉
MiniWelsh
Posts: 2189
MiniWelsh
   Old Thread  #860 25 Feb 2023 at 4.03pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #858
I'm happy to pay for some to try on a modestly stocked lake in France at the end of April if you are looking for more testers in a range of circumstances 😁
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #859 25 Feb 2023 at 3.20pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #858
Can't wait to try it,there is a 30+ Common I'm after in a low stocked mere
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #858 25 Feb 2023 at 2.16pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #857
I am hoping that it will be this summer. It has worked in the cold which was my biggest worry and the whole reason I wanted the new bait was for my own winter fishing (selfish huh 😂
Nutriplex was awesome in the cold but the fact that is more expensive (milk content) is what holds people back.
We as a company need another boilie like the herb and Tricknut if we are to move forward so I’m working hard on this one.
I have had to strike certain deals with two big bait companies to find certain ingredients that I can’t get anywhere else but that has now been sorted through my friends in the industry.
Also I’m working with some new ingredients that I haven’t used before and I need to check how they perform when you feed small or high volumes and that takes time.
On paper it’s incredible, but as we know, that isn’t always good enough.
It’s high in protein, tastes lovely, has some very new things inside and it’s working so far.
Boilie season isn’t far away now!

bmthman
Posts: 858
bmthman
   Old Thread  #857 25 Feb 2023 at 12.50pm  0  Login    Register
Yes I am thinking the new squid bait might be a good Barbel bait to use?
Pro-Blanker
Posts: 63
   Old Thread  #856 25 Feb 2023 at 10.25am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #854
Hi gav when can we expect the new squid out .
Iv got a session planned for easter would love try em .
Been big fan off your squid pop ups and deap c for years
As said to you in pms in past , think a deap c bottom feed boilies would be a evan better and a winner .
Pm if better .
Mistymere
Posts: 64
   Old Thread  #855 24 Feb 2023 at 9.08pm  0  Login    Register
Cheers for the reply gav
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #854 24 Feb 2023 at 1.04pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #853
Hello mate, it is no secret that we at handcraft have close ties to Martin and solar seeing as Pidge rolled them for him for decades!
Yes we had kept back a healthy supply of koi rearer that is very precious to us but it was always blended with modern squid flavours that we have had produced. There are some lovely things in those pop ups and Wafters hence why they are on our catch reports nearly every day.
God knows how many go out in an average week! I am actually sick of the smell of squid and squid additives as it makes everything stink but it is no secret how effective it is mixed up with nice powders and liquids.
The new bait we have been working on since last year has taken these concepts one stage further and we already know it is going to be one hell of a fish catcher.

Mistymere
Posts: 64
   Old Thread  #853 24 Feb 2023 at 11.19am  0  Login    Register
Hi gav, is the flavour in the squid hookbaits the koi rearer? What Martin did originally in solars baits, Cheers
Mattsaunders
Posts: 141
   Old Thread  #852 4 Feb 2023 at 11.58am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #851
Excellent news i want the deep c and squid for my main hookbaits i France.
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #851 4 Feb 2023 at 8.25am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #850
The 20mm squid Wafters were popular
Requests for sting 20mm Wafters flooded in and deep c is right up there with the two big sellers now so I don’t see why not!!
Mattsaunders
Posts: 141
   Old Thread  #850 3 Feb 2023 at 7.17pm  0  Login    Register
Any Plans on 20mm Deep C wafters??
Busted
Posts: 1735
   Old Thread  #849 3 Feb 2023 at 6.54pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #847
I ate a lot of the rolled bait last time i popped in. It's lovely!
Frenzy
Posts: 11403
Frenzy
MODERATOR
   Old Thread  #848 3 Feb 2023 at 5.48pm  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #847
your trick nut is lovely
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #847 3 Feb 2023 at 5.43pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #845
Glad you like them
When I make Tricknut I eat far too much of the peanut chunks and the Brazils 😂😂
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #846 3 Feb 2023 at 5.42pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #844
Samples are available from the site mate (im trying to get it so that it’s simpler to see) but if you have any issues call us and leave a message if we can’t answer as it’s very busy already this year.

Budder
Posts: 60
Budder
   Old Thread  #845 3 Feb 2023 at 7.50am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #844
I recently got some samples, they're very good. The tricknut is so nutty it's hard not to eat them yourself,the herb is a lovely fishmeal, think my favourite is the nutriplex. Can't put your finger on the smell but it's got a fruity back note. All good fish catchers by the reports.
ron83
Posts: 1982
ron83
   Old Thread  #844 3 Feb 2023 at 6.57am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #843
Could I possibly have some samples please - looking for a new bait this year
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #843 2 Feb 2023 at 9.11pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #842
He’s a man of few words
Says it how it is
He took that hat out to the back yard and tossed it into the air and blew it to pieces! I’ll get him a new one when I get him angling again 😉
NemesisWitch
Posts: 1382
NemesisWitch
   Old Thread  #842 2 Feb 2023 at 9.40am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #841
An extract of Pidge's hat from his Kingfisher days?
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #841 1 Feb 2023 at 7.46pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #840
Incredible hookbait
Repels silt
Has something inside that nobody that I know has pulled off inside a pop up! Also had my U.K. pb common on it last year in tricky conditions!
Pidge certainly played his ace with the deep c!!
mark100
Posts: 1454
   Old Thread  #840 1 Feb 2023 at 7.10pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #839
DeepC done me proud last year 👍
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #839 31 Jan 2023 at 10.19pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #838
Squid and deep c
Ain’t no missing those smells 😂😂
Wayne
Posts: 18680
Wayne
   Old Thread  #838 31 Jan 2023 at 8.47pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #834
I’m not nose blind…….
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #837 31 Jan 2023 at 8.20pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #834
Let me know when you send mine and Phil's samples,I will get the forklift ready for the delivery
lilharbs
Posts: 1568
lilharbs
   Old Thread  #836 31 Jan 2023 at 7.42pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #834
Alright Gav, hope the relocation works went well. How do I get my hands on a sample of the new squid bait, and when will you start taking orders?
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #835 31 Jan 2023 at 7.39pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #832
Tricknut……I love making it and eating it!!
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #834 31 Jan 2023 at 7.37pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #833
Ah the new bait!!!
So I’m sending samples out and so far the feedback is all good (I’m sure it won’t last 😂
The smell to me is a nice one but the trouble for us is that you become nose blind. I don’t ever want very strong over powering baits as I don’t think they are good long term.
All of the baits including this one are low level flavours.
The new one smells come from a high level of a new hydro liquid, a mega mega squid additive and a flavour that is a bit special to us.
Its colour is all natural again too, no dye!
Let’s hope the carp like it 😉
Budder
Posts: 60
Budder
   Old Thread  #833 31 Jan 2023 at 7.14pm  0  Login    Register
Received the samples today, they all smell sooo good. The new test bait could certainly be a winner,smelly but not overpowering.👍
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #832 29 Jan 2023 at 9.52pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #831
I fish Tricknut and Herb together and both have produced for me,the new bait would have to be amazing for me to change over
Wayne
Posts: 18680
Wayne
   Old Thread  #831 29 Jan 2023 at 8.33pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #828
That TN is divine smelling………carp obviously like it too……

As soon as I run out of my current bait I’m hoarding some of the herb as my water isn’t that responsive to nut baits but they do love a fishmeal…….
Budder
Posts: 60
Budder
   Old Thread  #830 29 Jan 2023 at 8.07pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #829
Cheers Gav. Didn't want or mean to give you more headaches🤦🏻‍♂️😂
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #829 29 Jan 2023 at 7.51pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #828
We will make the sample packs easier to find again as many people want them in an average week!
Busy day again tomorrow! I’ll get them all out as soon as I can
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #828 29 Jan 2023 at 5.18pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #827
The Tricknut is unbelievable,the smell makes you want to sit and eat the lot
Budder
Posts: 60
Budder
   Old Thread  #827 29 Jan 2023 at 12.57pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #826
Thank you, couldn't find it on my phone. So I just googled sample packs and it popped up, order placed.👍
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #826 29 Jan 2023 at 10.39am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #825
Go onto their website and scroll down and you can click on a page to order some samples
Budder
Posts: 60
Budder
   Old Thread  #825 29 Jan 2023 at 8.04am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #821
Do you do sample packs of your boilie range? Would like to get some to have a play with.
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #824 28 Jan 2023 at 9.32pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #823
Fair play to you
I know of at least one 40 caught on a tutti pop up sample 😂
Wayne
Posts: 18680
Wayne
   Old Thread  #823 27 Jan 2023 at 8.50pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #821
I always catch more on the samples than anything else……
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #822 27 Jan 2023 at 6.40pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #821
Thats very good of you
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #821 27 Jan 2023 at 5.57pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #820
I’ll sort you lads out some samples to go play with 😉
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #820 27 Jan 2023 at 3.58pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #818
He never said NO did he mate
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #819 27 Jan 2023 at 3.49pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #818
Plenty of time
Rolling lots of sting pop ups and Wafters this week and next. The 20mm Wafters will be next
Wayne
Posts: 18680
Wayne
   Old Thread  #818 27 Jan 2023 at 1.39pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #817
Same Tony……

Must get hookbaits sorted soon before it goes nuts……
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #817 27 Jan 2023 at 12.35pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #813
If you want send any of the new bait mine and Phils way,we will gladly try it out for you
Comebackkid
Posts: 134
Comebackkid
   Old Thread  #816 26 Jan 2023 at 9.01pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #815
Very good idea and yes I did think of doing that. Will see how I like the first order of freezer baits and go from there.

Like you I don’t like putting un used bait back in the freezer or air drying it so that’s the attraction of shelf life’s.

Ged
Posts: 371
   Old Thread  #815 26 Jan 2023 at 7.02pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #807
Have you thought of buying a split order. Just take a small amount of freezer baits that you know you'll use and a larger amount of shelfies that can be used if the fish need more bait. Any left just stays in your bag for next time. Putting defrosted bait back in the freezer really irks me, once is ok but after that I'm not so sure.
This year I'm experimenting by vacuum sealing my freezer baits in 1kg lots. Hopefully any unopened bags can go back in the freezer without too much detriment.
Frenzy
Posts: 11403
Frenzy
MODERATOR
   Old Thread  #814 26 Jan 2023 at 6.51pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #813
good luck mate

hope you have a great bait making, selling year
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #813 26 Jan 2023 at 5.53pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #812
Evening lads,
Apologies for not being on here for a bit but as usual, my life is a bit turbo!
I’ll try and answer what I can as quickly as possible?
Shelf life or fresh?
I always used to use freezer baits and I always will but……..modern shelf life’s are very good!
It’s the same bait, but with preserve added to the shelf life, and dried for a day longer! A good bait is a good bait in either form! Some of my consultants are on the shelf life’s now and no signs of any change in catch reports!
Crayfish and sting…….many many people say this to me but I got crayed on one last time out angling!!
Shows……..not this year as I am still investing all my time and money on the new site and ingredients!!
It has been a very busy start for us this year and it’s odd as most lakes are frozen! I’m still catching up, making basemix, playing with the new ingredients in the new bait and trying to raise a family and fish on a Friday night! I’m so excited about 2023 and the feedback from you guys is just on another level! The hookbait sales are crazy, hundreds keep piling out each week and lots of nice fish being caught (not this week though😉
If you need any help I will keep checking in here in the evenings!
wac
Posts: 545
   Old Thread  #812 26 Jan 2023 at 4.27pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #797
Are you doing any of the shows this year?
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #811 26 Jan 2023 at 1.51pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #810
I have seen Gav say that too but my catch rate has not suffered in the slightest.If I'm honest my catch rate on Handcraft shelflife is far better than when I was on freezer bait from another really well known firm
Beyonce
Posts: 1416
   Old Thread  #810 26 Jan 2023 at 12.45pm  0  Login    Register
Pretty sure I have heard Gav recommend freezer vs shelf if you have the freezer space. No preservative has got to be better than with preservative no matter how low level/food safe.

It may be of interest to some that I’ve found crayfish seem to leave the Sting pop ups alone. I fished Sting next to Deep-C and the Deep C got hammered and the Sting only scratched up.

Could have been the spot, but it’s happened a few times now.
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #809 26 Jan 2023 at 11.37am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #808
I would normally agree but Gavs shelflifes are that good I won't use freezer baits again.Me and my mate are on Tricknut and Herb and we have caught well on one lake we fish and others around have not had the amount of fish we have.The other lake we fish is a big mere,low stock and my mate has already had a fish on his 12th night,some lads have done 70+ nights and no fish at all.Handcraft shelflifes are superb as are the hookbaits,Sting is confidence in a tub and the customer service is amazing
MiniWelsh
Posts: 2189
MiniWelsh
   Old Thread  #808 26 Jan 2023 at 9.42am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #807
If you can store freezer bait I would always go for that. Getting it out the day of or night before a session has never been an inconvenience for me and people that know far more than I ever will about bait keep telling fresh/freezer bait is better quality than shelf life, so I am happy to follow their advice
Comebackkid
Posts: 134
Comebackkid
   Old Thread  #807 26 Jan 2023 at 9.29am  0  Login    Register
Thinking of switching to HC baits this year but can’t decide on freezer or shelf life.

I’ve got my own bait freezer so that’s no issue but I love the idea of shelf life’s from a simplicity angle.

Anybody care to help me make a decision.
1-Toner
Posts: 1348
1-Toner
   Old Thread  #806 23 Jan 2023 at 6.51pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #805
Any plans on bringing out super squid pop ups in white ?
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #805 23 Jan 2023 at 6.42pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #804
That fully scaled caught by Shane Sheffield,wow what a fish
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #804 30 Dec 2022 at 9.44am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #802
Merry Xmas mate
Hope you have a good new year!!
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #803 30 Dec 2022 at 9.44am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #801
You are welcome buddy!
Frenzy
Posts: 11403
Frenzy
MODERATOR
   Old Thread  #802 29 Dec 2022 at 7.27pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #797
merry xmas mate
MiniWelsh
Posts: 2189
MiniWelsh
   Old Thread  #801 29 Dec 2022 at 11.25am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #799
Merry Christmas Gav and thanks again for the gesture for my mate before Christmas, we both really appreciated it. Can't wait to get a few more fish on your hookbaits in 2023
Budder
Posts: 60
Budder
   Old Thread  #800 24 Dec 2022 at 9.54pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #797
Merry Christmas! Will be getting an order in the new year 🎣🎣🎣🐋🐟
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #799 24 Dec 2022 at 7.01pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #798
Difficult act to follow mate!!
Merry Christmas buddy
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #798 24 Dec 2022 at 3.46pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #797
Merry Christmas Gav,can't wait to see what you have got planned for 2023.It will have to be a special boilie to get me off Herb and Tricknut though
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #797 24 Dec 2022 at 12.25pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #796
Merry Christmas to you all on the forum!
It has been a very busy year for us and at times it has been Incredibly tough.
I just wanted to thank all of you for your custom and feedback and for all of the catch reports you guys sent in.
We have been working non stop for the last 15 days building the new factory and it’s nearly done!
New hookbaits coming, a new boilie has been rolled a few times and tinkered with and we have some quality new anglers joining us in 2023.
I’m skint and knackered but really excited about next year.
Enjoy the break with the family, eat as much as you can and be grateful for all you have around you!
There has been some mega carp caught in the last few days too😉
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #796 1 Dec 2022 at 12.38pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #793
It’s the same bait (shelf life and fresh), the only difference is that the shelf life has mpg rolled into it and it’s dried for 12 hours longer.
Both are what I class as soft
Both can be squashed between your fingers
It’s about as perfect as I can make a shelf life!
Freezer baits are my preferred choice all year round but sales say that shelf life is now 50/50 compared to freezer.
I wish I could get more anglers on the freezer baits but i understand it’s not practical for many today!
Glenn_B
Posts: 1804
Glenn_B
   Old Thread  #795 1 Dec 2022 at 9.32am  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #793
I generally mix the frozen and shelf life if I need to use a throwing stick as the shelfies are that little bit firmer. What I would suggest is chuck a few into some water so you can see for yourself how quickly they become soluble, it’s not very long. I’ll be using a mix of frozen Herb and Nutriplex throughout the winter😎
Spike
Posts: 2016
Spike
   Old Thread  #794 30 Nov 2022 at 9.48pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #793
As far as I’m aware they’re both identical. Very good in both forms. The freezer version is softer in my opinion but I’d happily use both all year around.
Fortysteve
Posts: 734
Fortysteve
   Old Thread  #793 30 Nov 2022 at 8.50pm  0  Login    Register
Calling all Herb users. Is there much difference between the texture of Herb freezer baits and shelfies?
I’ve been using shelflife all year, but find them fairly hard which makes me wonder about their cold water solubility. If the freezer baits are much softer I may have to pick up a small bait freezer and switch to them. (There’s no way I’m allowed bait in our food freezer, hence getting shelfies)

And Gav, good to hear that business is going well enough for the need of a bigger premises! All very exciting for the future mate 👍
lilharbs
Posts: 1568
lilharbs
   Old Thread  #792 29 Nov 2022 at 9.11pm  0  Login    Register
Good luck to you Gav, not surprised you are having to upscale as the range is quality all round.
Look forward to the new additions 👏👏
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #791 29 Nov 2022 at 12.36pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #790
Afternoon lads and ladies,
Just a little heads up that handcraft will be out of action leading up to Christmas and maybe early in January whilst we are building our new facility.
At some point we are going to have to shut down the website temporarily whilst we move and we won’t be able to make any bait for a while.
The good news is that we will be in a much better position on the other side and in a place that is closer to my home and with a bright outlook.
There are some exciting products coming, new liquids, new hookbaits, and even a new boilie 😉
We have new anglers on board and also a whole new project that we have to keep under wraps for now but it is going to be a very busy year in 2023.
Before we move there will be a brief chance to get hold of some boilies on a crazy deal but they won’t last long if it is like the last time we moved!!
I will try and keep you updated as best as I can but I’m not always around and I am still trying to catch another mega common when I get a day off 😂😂
Thanks for all of the support and custom this year and all of the private messages.
Still so much to do!!
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #790 20 Nov 2022 at 3.44pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #789
I fished it many many years ago when it was owned by the millers.
Lovely venue
Just impossible to get on now 😩
Wayne
Posts: 18680
Wayne
   Old Thread  #789 20 Nov 2022 at 12.16pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #788
Amazing venue that Gav........Been on my French list for a longtime......
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #788 19 Nov 2022 at 8.24pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #787
Today I had one of the most amazing catch reports from France that I have ever heard of.
Two anglers who I won’t name, have just done a week at a lake (that I won’t name) and went through 60k of our bait (crazy in November) but what they landed will take some beating!
4x40s
20x50s
10x60s
4x70s to 78
And one 20 pounder 😂

In November…….and they didn’t fish 24/7
Sting hookbaits and squids helped them
And this isn’t rainbow lake or anywhere like that!
Two very good underground anglers who both agreed it probably won’t happen again!
I am allowed to share photos of one of them on our social media 😂
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #787 7 Nov 2022 at 5.56pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #786
It’s one hell of a carp
I reckon it may come out again before Xmas and it may well be on a handcraft hookbait 😂
NOJOAKES
Posts: 3289
NOJOAKES
   Old Thread  #786 6 Nov 2022 at 9.03pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #785
Some fish that common. Guy on my club lake caught it few months back. Your hookbaits certainly catch them 👏
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #785 6 Nov 2022 at 6.55pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #784
Another U.K. 60 came out today on the sting
61lb 3oz waterside common……..he had the only two bites of recent times and both of them on the little 12mm yellow perils!!
Hence they are all out of stock again 😂😂
Back in stock middle of the week
That common is Incredible!!
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #784 3 Nov 2022 at 8.40pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #783
Love them! It’s one job I like doing, handling tutti or sting or banoffees!
SteveHarris
Posts: 74
   Old Thread  #783 3 Nov 2022 at 6.45pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #782
Quality Tutti pop ups…bright and pungent!
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #782 3 Nov 2022 at 6.27pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #781
Evening all, been a while since i looked in on you 😂
Plenty going on at HC and weirdly we just had the most orders ever in a weekend. I would expect that in April not late October into November!
Some lovely carp being caught but I’m not gonna post them here as they just disappear 😂😂
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #781 29 Oct 2022 at 11.47pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #780
Tricknut and Herb
Jon99
Posts: 527
Jon99
   Old Thread  #780 29 Oct 2022 at 9.21pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #779
Thanks mate, have you tried all the range or you just using one particular bait?
braders1978
Posts: 17503
braders1978
   Old Thread  #779 29 Oct 2022 at 8.36pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #778
Not used the freezer baits but the shelflife are soft enough and crumb up easily
Jon99
Posts: 527
Jon99
   Old Thread  #778 29 Oct 2022 at 8.01pm  0  Login    Register
What are the shelfies like those of you that use them? Are they much harder than the freezer baits?
newcarper78
Posts: 880
newcarper78
   Old Thread  #777 16 Sept 2022 at 10.03pm  0  Login    Register
In reply to Post #775
This please. thanks
keeperboy
Posts: 2545
   Old Thread  #776 16 Sept 2022 at 8.47pm  1  Login    Register
In reply to Post #774
I hope they bring you the success that they are bringing me!!