There are hundreds and hundreds of artificial lures available on the market today. But with all the innovation these artificial lures have, many anglers still prefer fishing with live baits. Why? Here’s one: Live baits are very helpful during times of fish scarcity. And that’s just one.
In this article, we will tackle some tips and ‘how to’s’ on using live baits to get you on step closer to landing the catch of your life.
Where to Get Live Fishing Baits
Just like those artificial lures, live baits can be purchased at a local fishing or sport shop. But if you are seeking more adventure and a rewarding experience, you can catch live baits on your own. However, it is important that you keep the live bait fresh and, well, alive. There are plenty of types of fishing live baits to choose from but you should select the one that attracts the kind of game you’re planning (or hoping) to catch. Below are some examples:
Fishing with Live Baits: The Different Types
Remember that this is just a few of the live baits available to use, there are plenty more to choose from.
Shrimp — Shrimp are among some of the most common live baits because they can be eaten by virtually anything while they’re on the line. This crustacean is also effective to use in murky waters. To attach it to your hook, simply pinch off the tail or the head and hook it on the line — this way, the fish will be attracted to its scent. Good for groupers, red snapper, wahoo and trout.
Squid — This smelly live bait is great-tasting and highly reliable when catching fish. To prepare, you might want to cut them into 3-inch chunks. You can also use them whole when trolling especially when you strike near a habitat.
Mullet — Another fantastic fishing live bait, mullets can be used live or cut. They can be found in almost every habitat and they travel in schools, making them a very easy catch and excellent bait fish. Use mullet if you want to increase your chances of landing your target. Mullets are also good to use in better water quality.
Tips on Fishing With Live Baits
Let the bait flow with the current. It’s crucial to have your bait moving at the same speed as the current.
Keep the spread simple. Usually you can run for baits: off the short riggers, long riggers and for the bridge teasers. You can leave one open lane down the middle to drop a pitch bait.
If you’re going to use small squid as your bait, choose ones that are around four to six inches in length — this is the optimum size to use for whichever type of fish you’re trying to land.
Live baits need to breathe. Provide fresh oxygen to make sure your baits are alive and strong. You can provide fresh oxygen by introducing new water from the environment you’re fishing in. Aside from that, you can use an oxygen infuser.
If you have a water tank for your live baits, keep it clean at all times. Water contaminants are virtually everywhere while fishing ranging from oils and ammonia to bacteria. Use tank paint to reduce bacterial growth and to make it easier to clean.
Some anglers have no doubt that live bait is the most effective type of bait there is, but preparation and great handling is needed. By following the tips and learning about the right bait to use, fishing with live bait could really work for you.
More info: oceanbluefishing.com
Image credits: www.oceanbluefishing.com