Canal expert Derek Young would never go fishing without Van den Eynde Special

Special is the most versatile groundbait in the whole of the Van den Eynde range. Basically it can be used by itself as a fine, cloud groundbait containing very little food value, or it can be added to any other groundbait to lighten the mixture.

On canals, I use Special by itself mixed dry to create a slowly falling cloud, or over-wetted to make a superb slop mix that's ideal for gudgeon when I need to feed minimal amounts.

Equal amounts of Special and Van den Eynde Supercup is a brilliant summer groundbait, especially for skimmers.

If the water is over four feet deep, I'll also add a little sticky Van den Eynde Secret to take it down faster to the bottom where it will 'explode' to form a carpet over which the fish will feed confidently. It's also good for bleak fishing, mixed dry.

IDEAL USES
The finest and lightest of all Van Den Eynde groundbaits, it's a match anglers mix for use on its own only on special occasions. Having a very light texture it's the mix for surface feeding fish which are attracted to a cloud of regularly introduced groundbait. It can be added to any other Van Den Eynde mix to produce a cloud effect, making it a good bag to carry at all times. Indeed Special is the groundbait Marcel uses when ever he needs an instant cloud.

PROVEN RECIPE SUGGESTIONS
1. 2 parts Special, 1 part Damp Leam. For use when the fish won't come right to the surface, but are taking on the drop 2 or 3 feet down especially bleak.

2. 1 Special, 1 Secret. For smallish fish in water upto 6ft deep.Gives attractive cloud effect in bottom half of water.

3. 1 Special, 1 Kastaar. Feeder fishing for bream on hard days. ( Mild winter days etc.)

MIXING INSTRUCTIONS
1. For best results, place groundbait and additives in a round mixing bowl.

2. Blend the dry ingredients thoroughly before adding water.

3. Add water slowly whilst vigorously stirring the mix together. This procedure is made easier with a sponge, which allows even distribution of water.

4. The use of a round groundbait bowl means there are no corners to trap and leave dry groundbait.

5. When the mix begins to appear adequately dampened set it aside for 5-10 minutes.

6. You should find after 10 minutes the mix will require a little more water before it's ready for use.

7. If you are using damp leam add it to the mixture now, and not earlier.