My Carp Fishing Journey with DNA Baits’ S7

  • Posted: 24th January 2025
  • Author: Vinny Pritchard

My relationship with the Secret 7 (S7) began back in 2011, shortly after my journey with DNA Baits kicked off. I was eager to explore the product range, but I had no idea a new bait in development was about to redefine my carp fishing experience.

When Jason Trought first introduced the field testers to the S7, I was struck by its unique characteristics. At first glance, it didn’t scream ‘fishmeal bait’. Yet, it’s packed with top-tier fishmeal ingredients like LT94 and CPSP90. What sets it apart is its distinctive peach and orange aroma, underscored by the mysterious blend of seven spices and salts – the ‘Secret 7’. It was clear this bait wasn’t just another addition to the market; it was something entirely different.

Vinny with a very nice Manton mirror carp

I knew from the off that Secret 7 was going to be a winner!

Why the S7 Stands Out

To earn the title of “the best bait I’ve ever used,” a bait needs to deliver consistent results across various waters and conditions over many years. Any bait can work on its day, but the S7 has proven its effectiveness time and time again in diverse situations.

During the testing phase, I wasn’t fishing syndicates. Instead, I frequented popular day-ticket venues like Horseshoe Lake, Thorney Weir, and Waveney Valley. The S7 is what we call an ‘instant bait’ – it doesn’t require pre-baiting, as carp immediately recognise its food signals. Even as one of the first to use the S7, I enjoyed remarkable results, with multiple bites and memorable catches from every venue.

Vinny with a 32lb common carp

Secret 7 has worked for me wherever I’ve taken it

The S7 in Campaign-Style Fishing

My first serious campaign with the S7 was on Lincolnshire’s Manton syndicate, a heavily pressured lake ideal for testing a bait’s true potential. At Manton, the S7 proved its worth, consistently out-fishing competing offerings. The results were staggering: I caught 28 of the lake’s 30 carp over 30lb, a testament to the S7’s irresistible appeal.

Bait confidence is everything in carp fishing, and the S7 gave me a distinct edge. When your buzzers are going off more frequently than anyone else’s, you know your bait is making the difference.

Vinny with a nice Manton carp

Memorable moments from the early Secret 7 days at Manton

Vinny with a very nice Manton mirror carp

The Manton carp couldn’t get enough of the Secret 7

France Trips: S7 Shines Abroad

The S7 isn’t just a standout in UK waters; it has delivered exceptional results on my France trips as well. One memorable session was at La Traque on the Goncourt complex. A week-long trip with two friends turned into a fishing frenzy.

The Dutch anglers before us had struggled, managing only a handful of fish, but the S7 changed everything. From the first night, the rods were alive, and by Tuesday, we had over 30 fish on the bank. By the week’s end, we’d landed 96 carp, including multiple forties and fifties – a staggering third of the lake’s stock. It was clear that an average bait couldn’t achieve this level of success.

Vinny with a big French mirror carp

Secret 7 is such a banker when heading to France

Another incredible trip took place at Lac Baleine post-lockdown. Armed with my usual S7 prep – a mix of 15mm and 18mm boilies lightly coated in the matching S7 Liquid Food – I was ready. Large dumbbell Corker wafters, pre-glugged in the Secret 7 Evo Liquid, were my go-to hookbaits. Once again, the results were phenomenal, with the carp seeking out the S7 as their primary food source.

By Thursday, I was in the local tackle shop replenishing supplies after a session so productive it left me running out of leads! That week saw around 40 carp on the bank, further cementing the S7’s place as my ultimate bait.

Why I Trust the S7

Confidence in your bait is critical, especially on challenging venues or during trips abroad. Over the years, I’ve seen many anglers hedge their bets, bringing a mix of baits ‘just in case’. With the S7, I don’t need a backup plan. If I fish well, the results follow.

The S7 range offers everything you need: wafters, pop-ups, fluoros, Hard Hookers, liquids and powders. Whether you’re a seasoned campaign angler or planning your first trip to France, the S7 provides a reliable and effective solution.

For me, the S7 isn’t just a bait – it’s the best bait I’ve ever used. If you’re looking for a game-changer, I can’t recommend it enough.

Vinny with Diamond Scale

A target fish known as Diamond Scale from the Manton syndicate

Other related carp fishing articles:

Secret 7 Changed My Carp Fishing! by Simon Wright

How to Prime Your Carp Fishing Spot by Pre-Baiting by Steve Wright

Secret 7 (S7) Recipe Guide: The Instant Carp Bait