Back to basics: The catapult

This has to be the most classic baiting tool of all time; it’s been around for years and is just as important now as ever. Catapults allow us to deposit a whole manner of different baits with ease and for this reason alone I won’t go fishing without one. Although this isn’t the best tool for long-range baiting, the catapult is superb for short- or medium-range bait-ups.

The catapult is ideal for spots at shorter range

Particle baits

Boilies are best suited to the catapult but it is possible to deposit particles too. A catapult will deposit your bait accurately but when using particle it will have a tendency to spread the bait slightly. When fishing with particles I find it better to keep them concentrated in a tight area so for this reason I only use it at extremely close range where I have absolute control of the particles spread. I certainly favour the use of a catapult for my boilie fishing.

Different types

Catapults with large pouches are ideal for applying greater amounts of boilies in quick time and in general it is these types of catapults I will use. Sometimes though, in situations where it is paramount for my baits to land with complete accuracy I will use a small matchman’s catapult. These catapults are great for depositing single boilies and although it may take longer to get your bait out, it’s definitely worth it.

Don't overfill

It is important not to overfill your catapult and I would advise that you go no further than three-quarters full, anymore than that and you’re going to start getting bait all over your swim. It is also important to grip the pouch around the top when baiting with larger amounts of bait as this will stop them falling out as you apply tension to the elastics.