Modern carp fishing evolved to a point where creating carp bait became a science. Whether we talk about hook bait, ground bait, spod mixes, or liquid food, companies are competing who will create the most addictive bait. In all of that, some bait proved to bring more success than others. Tiger nut is one of them. However, there were some cases where, due to a lack of knowledge from anglers, it was devastating bait for some epic carp specimens. This resulted in a ban on some lakes. Read on and find out why are tiger nuts banned on some lakes and will ban ever be lifted.
The Impact of Tiger Nuts on Fish Safety
Even though they are the most used nuts for fishing, it doesn’t mean they are flawless. To be precise, they are one of the best, healthiest, and most nutritious baits out there, but if prepared properly.
Carp anglers like to use tiger nuts because they are rich in fiber and oil content. That makes them a part of every spod for carp fishing. However, one wrong step during preparation or feeding can have severe consequences which can result in a dead fish. Of course, that is a scenario everyone wants to avoid. Let’s check the most common mistakes that resulted in the ban of this bait on some waters.
Reasons for Banning Tiger Nuts on Some Popular Fishing Venues
There are two main reasons why tiger nuts are banned. Both are a result of neglect and ignorance of certain anglers.
Poorly Prepared Tiger Nut
First of all, before you cook tiger nuts in a pot or pressure cooker, you should soak them in cold water for at least 24 hours. 48 to 72 hours if you want to form jelly which is irresistible to fish and makes it such an excellent bait. If you are not 100% sure that you adequately prepared the bait. Go to your local store and purchase ready-to-use nuts from any of the known carp bait companies.
Overfeeding the Fish
The second reason why tiger nuts were banned is overfeeding. Since carp isn’t capable of digesting the whole nuts, creating a bed of tigers at the waterbed isn’t recommended. If a carp swallows a nut that can’t be digested, it will swallow in the fish’s stomach. This can cause serious problems where fish aren’t able to properly digest them. Eventually, this leads to serious issues and can end with the worst possible scenario for the fish.
Read more about carp’s digestive system so you don’t make the same mistake.
The bottom line is, that even though tiger nut has some benefits for fish, there were multiple cases where bad anglers didn’t prepare or present the nuts in the right way. This had tragic consequences in some venues and ultimately, it resulted in the ban of tiger nuts.
Alternative to Tigers Nuts on Water Where They are Banned
There are plenty of alternatives at bait shops. Here are the top 5 I often use on waters where tiger nuts are banned. I find them just as good, sometimes even better than Tiger Nut. But, that depends on the weather, time of the year, water, and so on.
Tiger Nut boilies
These boilies have grounded tiger nuts in them, along with additives, vitamins, proteins, and plenty of other stuff good for the fish. I won’t advertise but make sure that you are buying from proven manufacturers. Buying products that aren’t proven may have the same results as the actual nuts.
Artificial baits
Here I am referring to fake baits for the hook. Pop-up maize and artificial tiger nuts are doing wonders in venues where there’s a lot of weed. If you dip them before your fishing trip, even better. Keep in mind that these are banned on some waters as well, so make sure you are well-informed before casting.
Maize
Good, old maize is still number one for me. Carp loves it as well so you can’t go wrong on this one. Just make sure you prepared it properly and you are good to go. You can add pretty much anything to it. From grounded bait to additives and oils. Go wild with this one.
Hemp and Wheat Seeds
Although I never use these as hook baits, I found them to be an excellent addition to my spod. A couple of handfuls boiled in hot water can add a nice twist that carp won’t be able to resist. Give it a go.
Fruit Boilies
Not everything has to have a nutty smell and flavor. During summer, fruit aromas work even better than tiger nuts. On top of the irresistible smell, these boilies are often bright bait which will attract the fish even more. Pinneaple, mulberry, plum, strawberry, there are dozens of choices. Experiment and eventually you’ll find that killer bait that will help you land your new PB!
The Role of Common Sense and Responsible Angling
In summary, tiger nuts were banned for a good reason. Anglers didn’t use it properly due to lack of knowledge and this causes issues for the fish digestive system in the long run. Please be responsible when you are fishing and if your bait seems fermented or raw, don’t cast it.
It’s only common sense to think about our carp friends in the water and to do everything possible for them to live long and happy lives. That’s the only way they can make someone else happy and make our future generations enjoy them as well.
If you found this article helpful, go ahead and learn what are leaders in carp fishing. This will be extremely helpful if you are just starting.