Please note that worm beds are mainly at the low tide mark, and can only be reached by walking great distances from the foreshore. Therefore you are advised to pay particular attention to the weather conditions, as well as having some knowledge of the tidal flow in the area, it is also recommended that you carry a compass and take a bearing from the shore before setting out, then in the event of fog or mist coming down you are able to get back to shore safely, DO NOT carry on collecting bait if weather conditions close in, return to the beach as quickly as possible, also carry a mobile phone so you can alert the coastguard should you get in to difficulties.
Black Lug is identified by a cast that may not be black, but will have no visible blowhole like the Blow Lug has. You may see what appears to be a blowhole in the center of the cast. Also it is worth noting that Black Lug can only be collected on the lowest tide's, and you will need to walk out a very long distance for them, so be sure you have checked your escape route and leave the area in plenty of time of the incoming tide!
Place your Bait Pump 3 - 4 inches away from the cast and at a slight angle (20 degrees) to the cast, push the pump into the sand about 4 inches and pull the handle upwards removing from the hole, clear the pump of the sand you have just sucked up, repeat the process as above.
The worm will be brought up in the sand you remove, and you will need to check each time you empty your pump, you should have the worm in 3 strokes, if you have not got the worm you will only be wasting time and would be far better moving to another cast and trying again. Practice really does make perfect and your first attempts may well be unproductive but keep on trying!!
As you can get plenty of worms in a short period of time, and the average cost being £3.00 for 10 - it can be well worth your while pumping your own bait.
The Vivtek bait pump is available in three diameters, 38mm, 50mm & 65mm. Pumping is a very easy method to use for collecting worm baits in sandy or muddy conditions. The bait pump has been known to pump for Sand Eels. Please note that the pump requires lubricating with oil - the most suitable being ordinary Vegetable Oil. Thoroughly clean your bait pump after every session.
Information by courtesy of 'wirralseafishing.co.uk'