Particle baits are very effective and versatile but must be prepared properly to be effective and safe. Most particles are hard seeds or nuts that must be pre-soaked and then boiled in order for them to be safely used. A dry particle takes on water and often swells in size which can lead to fish fatalities if this happens inside the fish's gut. Also, the soaking and boiling process releases the inherent oils and attractors within the particle, making it much more effective. This cooking process can be used to great advantage transforming a bland seed into a rich mix of flavours and oils. Do not judge particle baits in their uncooked state.

Many anglers have their own methods of preparation. Commonly used tricks such as adding a teaspoon of salt to the cooking water or a bit of sugar can enhance most natural flavours. Other popular tricks are to add favourite flavours or sweeteners to the water and let them penetrate into the bait.

Many successful anglers who use particle baits use mixtures of several particles to give variety and to give the fish confidence by offering different sizes and colours along with a myriad of flavours and textures. When it comes to particles your imagination is the only limit.

Below is a simple table intended to act as an initial guide to particle preparation. With a little bit of practice you can soon evolve your favourite particle mixes to suit different waters and different fishing conditions.