Chum is what you throw in other than your hookbait. It's a difference in terms. Chum can be corn, maize, pellets etc. The Brits call it particle or bait, most US folks call it chum. Chum doesn't have to be fish bits, it can be any grain also.
I've found that Sweet Feed, Range Cubes and Boiled cracked or field corn (maize) is the cheapest and best way to go for river fishing. As for hookbaits sweet corn, flavored sweet corn or maize, pack & puff and doughball works in the river I fish.
sounds good im go up to new river and try it out seen some big ones !