The way Tom explained it at the Snohomish chapter of PSA was that he tested several new products this last summer/fall up in Port Hardy and two new products stood out from the rest and attracted noticeably more fish than gear that is currently on the market. The first was the Roto Chip lure that has been discussed on this board. The second was the chum stick. I think he said something like "the chum stick worked almost too well." At any rate I am willing to give it a try, but have yet to get my hands on one to demo.

And yes, the fish pellets you put in the stick are made from the same stuff hatchery raised fish eat while in the pen so it does trigger a feeding instinct learned at the hatchery.