Top Essex County performer Pete Vasey reveals why he likes Van den Eynde Secret.

Secret is a very heavy groundbait and its ingredients are quite sweet smelling. Mix it carefully because it becomes very sticky, adding water a little at a time and riddling afterwards. Get it right and you'll achieve a groundbait which is perfectly suited for a balling-in approach.

The big advantage of using Secret is that it will break down very slowly once it has reached the bottom. This coupled with its fairly high food content, means it will hold fish in your swim for a long time without the need to top up.

The best time to use Secret is when you need a lot of bait on the bottom and you don't want to feed again for a long time after your initial balls have gone in. I'll use it when I'm expecting big catches or large numbers of fish. Once the groundbait's gone in, I can concentrate o fishing rather than feeding every few minutes.

IDEAL USES
The most adaptable and all round product in the Van Den Eynde Range. Secret can be put to use in many varied conditions, even by itself it's a mix which works effectively in a swimfeeder or when fed by hand. By adding other Van Den Eynde products either heavier or lighter, almost every type of fishing situation in the UK can be mastered. Marcel himself uses Secret as a base ingredient in nearly all his own recipes.

PROVEN RECIPE SUGGESTIONS
1. 1 part Secret. 1 part Special. This combination is the one Marcel most often uses for venues between 6 & 8ft deep in still or slow moving waters holding a mixed species of fish.

2. 1 part Secret. 1 part Supercup. ½ Vanille or Brasem. A well proven mix for bream of all sizes. Feed by hand on stillwaters or feeder in flowing water.

3. 1 part Secret. 1 Kastaar. A favourite on the continent for bottom feeding fish in flowing water. Good for barbel, bream and carp. Substitute Natuur for Kastaar where chub and roach predominate.

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.