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This is the time of year when fishing hemp can bring good bags of roach to the bank. With rivers and drains at winter level and the first few frosts have passed, it's a deadly and very cheap method of fishing which usually brings bites when overcast or towards the end of the day.

Step 1.

Hemp can be bought already to use, but most hemp anglers prepare their own, it's cheaper and can be prepared as they want it. Hemp can be bought at most descent pet shops or animal feed suppliers. It comes in a variety of sizes, and some slightly bigger for the hook often is an advantage

Step 2.

You need an old pan, size depends on how much you want to cook in one go. Next place the hemp in the pan and add water. It can then be left overnight to soak, and add a tablespoon of sugar and salt for each pint to be cooked.

Step 3.

Slowly bring the water to the boil and simmer for around 30 minutes or until the white kernals are showing. The hemp must be covered with water at all times.

Step 4.

Once cooked, the hemp can be bagged into half or pint bags for use or freezing. The water is a good additive for mixing groundbait, so don't throw it away.

Step 5.

There are several ways to hook hemp. If you're not familiar with it, it can be tricky. One trick is to use a small black bead, creat a loop with some line and add a white tipex kernal. Then put the hook through the loop.

Step 6.

Alternatively, use a baiting needle to punch a hole at the base of the shell and put your hook through it and bring the point out at the slit in the seed.

Remember, hemp is a cheap and deadly way to fish. If you take your time and prepare it right, it can improve your chances to netmorefish and often sorts out the bigger roach. Preparation is a basic element to fishing that alot of anglers fail to do. Don't be one of them.