PVA for Carp Fishing: Precision Bait Delivery
Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) is a crucial element of modern carp fishing, dissolving completely in water to leave a perfectly presented hookbait surrounded by a tight cluster of free offerings. Our PVA collection at Gerry’s Fishing is meticulously sourced from the finest brands, providing you with tools for pinpoint bait accuracy, enhanced anti-tangle performance, and the controlled release of powerful attractants.
Detailed Category Description: Formats, Specifications, and Tactical Uses
The choice of PVA format depends on the type of bait you are delivering and the conditions you are fishing in. We stock all the high-quality options you need to build the perfect trap.
PVA Bags and the Solid Bag System
Solid PVA Bags are designed to enclose the hookbait, rig, and a small quantity of feed (pellets, groundbait) in one compact package.
-
Product Details & Uses: We stock various bag sizes (e.g., 80mm times 120mm or 100mm 120mm and film thicknesses. The solid bag system ensures the rig lands tangle-free, and the bait remains contained until the bag melts, creating a highly concentrated feeding spot known as the ‘solid bag approach’. Look for fast-melt options for shallow water and slow-melt options for deep water or summer temperatures.
PVA Mesh and Stick Mix Applications
PVA Mesh Systems allow you to create cylindrical ‘PVA sticks’ of crushed boilies, pellets, or groundbait mix.
Auxiliary PVA: Tapes, String, and Strips
These components are essential for securing bags and creating presentation tweaks.
-
PVA String and Tape: Used to tie the neck of a PVA bag or mesh stick securely. The string is also widely used to create a simple ‘stringer’ of 3-4 boilies to present next to the hookbait.
-
Dissolution Specification: All PVA products are designed to fully dissolve without leaving harmful residue. Fast Melt PVA is specified for temperatures below $15^\circ\text{C}$ (e.g., winter fishing) or shallow water, while Slow Melt PVA is essential for deep water or fishing during hot summer months.
We proudly stock PVA from the best names in terminal tackle, including Korda, Fox Edges, Trakker, and Nash Webcast, ensuring biodegradable quality and reliability every time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use liquids in a Solid PVA Bag?
A: You can use thick, oil-based liquids in your solid bags, as they will not dissolve the PVA. You must avoid all water-based liquids and oils containing water (like some food-grade oils), as they will cause premature melting of the bag. Special PVA-friendly liquids and enhancers are available.
Q: How do I choose between Micromesh and Hexmesh PVA?
A: Micromesh is preferred when using very fine baits like crushed boilies, groundbait, or tiny pellets, as the finer weave prevents the bait from falling out. Hexmesh (or wide-weave mesh) is better for standard-sized pellets and boilies, as it allows for quicker melting and bait release.
Q: What is the ideal way to store PVA?
A: PVA is highly susceptible to moisture. It should be stored in a cool, dark, and airtight container or the packaging it came in, away from damp banksides. Adding a silica gel packet (desiccant) to your PVA box is a simple specification change that will help keep it dry and usable.
Q: What is the ‘Stringer’ method using PVA?
A: The ‘Stringer’ method uses PVA string or tape to thread 3-4 whole boilies together, which is then nicked onto the hook. When cast, the stringer is delivered tightly next to the hookbait. The PVA dissolves, leaving the three free offerings right beside your hookbait, providing maximum localized attraction without a large scatter.