Lupin is one of the seeds of correct size which allows to make a first selection on the undesirable ones. This seed is, on the whole, neglected in favor of more fashionable seeds. Yet this seed has many advantages that should rank it in the top table of seeds for carp fishing.
History and description
Latin name : Lupinus albus (white lupin)
Lupinus luteus (yellow lupine)
English name : Lupin
This seed is flattened, round and cream colored. The lupin belongs to the fabaceae family. It is a perennial forage and ornamental plant. Its flowers in clusters can measure up to 1m50. To the flowers succeed fruits which are pods containing seeds (like the bean). Its bloom is spectacular.
Several species of lupines exist: white lupine, yellow lupine, blue lupine, changeable lupine and garden lupine. For fishing, two species interest us: the white lupin and the yellow lupin. At home, the white lupin is the most cultivated. The yellow lupin is cultivated in Central Europe.
Lupin is mentioned in Roman texts dating back to 3 centuries before Christ as a food for human consumption. Seeds were also found in the Egyptian pyramids as well as in Mayan remains. In the Middle Ages, white and yellow lupins were still cultivated for food and as green manure because they were rich in nitrogenous matter. Today, white lupin seeds are consumed as an aperitif in Italy and North Africa.
Nutritional qualities of lupins
Lupin is a treasure trove of proteins. In addition, it is organic and natural. The protein content is about 35% for white lupin and 40% for yellow lupin. Lupin competes with soybeans because it is rich in carbohydrates (at one time, it was forbidden in agriculture because you had to buy American soybeans!) For those who make boilies, lupin flour can be a good alternative to soy flour. The slightly larger yellow lupin is less bitter than the white lupin.
Lupin is a bitter seed because it contains 1-2% alkaloids. To eliminate this bitterness, the ancients cooked the seeds in water and rinsed them with warm water. The water of rinsing was used as insecticide. As said in the historical part, its richness in nitrogenous matter allows it to degrade easily on the bottom. Thus no risk of rotting the blow as with peanuts or others.
Its fat content is about 10%. Overall, the nutritional value of lupin is higher than that of corn. It is rich in minerals such as calcium and amino acids such as lysine. Another advantage is that lupin germinates rather well. Like all legumes, it can be combined with a cereal of your choice. Moreover, catfish do not seem to appreciate this seed, which is not negligible in certain fishing conditions.
Packaging
Lupin can be found at all fishing tackle retailers (nearest retailer, salon, internet...) in packages of up to 25 kg. Some offer it for retail sale. More difficult to find directly from the farmers, but possible depending on your location. It can also be found ready-made in food stores.
Lupine drying
All presentations are possible, the lupin can be used pure or with other seeds or boilies. Its tough skin allows it to resist well on the hair.
Tips and tricks for carp fishing with lupines
This seed colors very well so for those who want to dye their seeds, all colors are possible.
Lupin is well worth the effort for both baiting and drying.
