WORMS

They are a favorite fish bait. For catfish and other large fish, bring the hook through one end of the worm until it covers the bottom part of the hook. Pull the hook down and through the worm again as shown in the picture. Worms can be purchased at the bait store or can be found under leaves, boards, and rocks in moist soil. Keep them in damp soil and in the shade. Refrigerate between fishing trips.

CRICKETS and GRASSHOPPERS

Weather in your inbox

Forecast Location

Sign Up

By signing up you agree to the Terms & Privacy Policy. Unsubscribe at any time.

They are good bait for bluegill. Hook them through the collar behind the head. The hook can be slipped under this collar so that the point is exposed. If it is not important to keep the insect alive, push the hook through the its body.

DOUGHBALLS

These are good bait for carp. This bait can be purchased or can be made with a variety of recipes which may include flour, bread, cornmeal, or wheaties, dampened with water, honey, and vanilla. Form in a tight ball and press onto a size # 4 or smaller hook.

For sunfish and other small “bait stealers, hook small bits of worms like this with just the bottom part of the hook being covered.

Check the Fishing Forecast

MINNOWS

Used for bait they are usually 1 to 3 inches long. Put the hook through the very top of its back just in front of the fin so the minnow can swim. Keep them in a minnow bucket in the shade and change water in the bucket occasionally to keep them alive.

LIVE CRAWDADS

These are good bass bait. Crawdads can be bought at the bait store and are also found under rocks in the water. Remove the big pincers and then push the hook through the tail.

FROGS

Hook small Frogs, which can be found along the shore, through both lips or a leg.