How to tie bait with elastic so it stays in place during the cast? It starts with a compact, well-wrapped bait. But a firm bait doesn’t depend only on how much elastic you use: spreading the wraps and controlling the tension also make a difference.
The Garrapeixe ELASTCASE 2×1 combines a bait elastic dispenser with retractable needles that hold the bait while you prepare it. In this guide, we show how to use it with ELASTRICOT bait elastic thread and how to avoid crushing or deforming your bait.
Step by step: how to tie bait with elastic thread
1. Prepare the bait portion
Cut the amount of bait to suit your hook and rig. If you are using strips or combining different baits, arrange the pieces before you start wrapping.
Avoid leaving loose parts that could shift while you apply the elastic.
2. Rest the bait on the needles
Extend the retractable needles of the ELASTCASE 2×1 and place the bait on them. Arrange the pieces in the shape you want the finished bait to keep.
3. Spread the elastic wraps
Pull the elastic thread from the dispenser and wrap it along the bait. Reinforce the points where the pieces need to stay together, and avoid putting all the wraps in the same spot.
Increase the tension gradually. The goal is to keep the bait firm and in shape without crushing it.
4. Remove the bait and check the rig
Finish wrapping, slide the bait off the needles and put it on the hook according to the rig you are using.
Before casting, check that the pieces are still together and that the hook point is exposed. After use, retract the needles to store the tool.
How can you tell if the elastic is too tight?
Watch the bait as you wrap. If the elastic starts cutting into the surface, leaving deep grooves or squashing the bait, ease off the tension.
With soft baits, spread the wraps more evenly instead of pulling tighter on the same spot. The bait should hold together without losing its volume.
How to combine two baits in one rig
When combining baits, such as a fish strip with squid, place both parts together on the needles before applying the elastic.
Wrap the thread at the joining points and along the whole bait. After removing it from the needles, check that the parts stay in position.
Adjust your bait after every cast
When you reel in, look at the bait. If it has slipped or opened up, review the tying points and the amount of elastic on the next bait.
This helps you match the elastic to the type of bait, the rig and the fishing conditions. To choose the right color for each situation, see our guide to bait elastic thread for fishing.
ELASTCASE 2×1 and ELASTRICOT: bait preparation and organization
The ELASTCASE 2×1 keeps the elastic in its dispenser and holds the baiting needles in the same tool. Together with ELASTRICOT, it keeps natural bait preparation organized for surfcasting and other bait fishing styles.
Discover the ELASTCASE 2×1 and the ELASTRICOT bait elastic thread range from Garrapeixe.
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