Bait

Dark-orange boilies enriched with various natural ingredients, including soluble fish proteins RRP: £7. 99 per kiloContact: 01925 444797 or www. cheshirebaits. co.

A milk-protein bait wth tiger nut, vanilla extract, coconut and cream enhancers. Available in 10mm to 24mmRRP: £39. 99 for 5KContact: 01795 423808 or www. catcherbaits.

Bird-food-based boilies containing high levels of ground nut meal and a secret blend of spicesRRP: £9. 99 per kiloContact: 0115 989 4050 or www. dynamitebaits. co.

Oversized, liquid-infused pellets with a long breakdown time. Matching hook baits also availableRRP: £3. 99 per kiloContact: 01963 362234 or www. ccmoore.

Mixed maize, mini maize, hemp, wheat and chilli flakes. Preserved so that it will not go off on the bankRRP: £10. 99 for 3kgContact: 01666 575330 or www. cotswoldbaits.

I tend to make my food up in advance, freeze it in single portions and then get them as I need them. However, on several occasions I have been short of grub and have used these instead. They’re surprisingly good quality and pretty tasty – much better, in fact, than most ready meals. The Chicken Tikka Masala is a particular favourite, and the meat actually tastes like chicken too! My only gripe would be that the portions are a bit on the small side, but they’re probably perfect for people with average appetites, unlike me.