Selecting the right bait is crucial for fishing success. This guide will help you understand different types of bait and when to use them.
Live Bait Options
Worms
- • Nightcrawlers
- • Red wigglers
- • Meal worms
- Best for: Bass, Panfish, Catfish
Minnows
- • Fathead minnows
- • Shiners
- • Chubs
- Best for: Pike, Bass, Walleye
Artificial Lures
Soft Plastics
- • Plastic worms
- • Grubs
- • Creature baits
Perfect for beginners due to their durability and effectiveness
Hard Baits
- • Crankbaits
- • Spinnerbaits
- • Jigs
Great for covering water and attracting active fish
Seasonal Bait Selection
Spring
- • Small jigs
- • Soft plastic worms
- • Live worms
Summer
- • Topwater lures
- • Crankbaits
- • Live minnows
Fall
- • Spinnerbaits
- • Jigs
- • Larger minnows
Beginner's Starter Kit
We recommend starting with these essential baits:
Live Bait
- • Nightcrawlers
- • Small minnows
- • Wax worms
Artificial Lures
- • 4" plastic worms
- • Small jigs
- • Basic spinner