hi geoffry, i have used hemp for decades,...if i am roach fishingand using hemp hookbait i do the following........large pan with sealed lid ie no vent 1 third full with seed cover with boiling water allow for swelling,adds sugar put lid on loose simmer 3 minutes.remove from heat seal lid leave overnight thats it , 16 b611 hook .if you like it hanging out of the shell allow 2nights this way you wont stink the house out especially if you chuck it outside allways works and its wife friendly..............dave