Using live bait can be an effective way to catch fish, but keeping live bait alive and fresh is essential to its success. Dead or stale bait will not attract fish and can even discourage them from biting. In this post, we'll explore how to keep live bait alive and fresh for maximum success.
Proper Storage: Keeping live bait alive and fresh begins with proper storage. Live bait should be kept in a well-ventilated container, such as a bait bucket or aerated cooler, with a source of oxygen. This can be achieved by using an aerator pump or by simply adding water to the container.
Keeping Bait Cool: Keeping live bait cool is another important aspect of keeping it alive and fresh. Bait should be kept in a cooler with ice, or in a shaded area, to prevent it from overheating. Overheated bait will not only become sluggish, but it can also release metabolic waste, which will make the water in the container dirty and inhospitable to the bait.
Change the Water: Changing the water in the container regularly is essential to keeping live bait alive and fresh. The water in the container will become contaminated with metabolic waste and other debris, so it's important to change the water every few hours to keep the bait healthy.
Keep Bait Covered: Keeping live bait covered is another important aspect of keeping it alive and fresh. Sunlight and high temperatures can cause live bait to become sluggish, so it's important to keep the bait covered and shaded to prevent overheating.
Proper Feeding: Proper feeding is also important to keeping live bait alive and fresh. Some types of live bait, such as worms and minnows, will feed on organic matter in the container, while others, such as crickets and leeches, will need to be fed. It's important to research the specific needs of the live bait you are using and to provide proper feeding to keep the bait healthy.
Keeping live bait alive and fresh is essential to its success. By following these tips, you can ensure that your live bait is healthy, active, and attractive to fish. By keeping your live bait fresh, you'll increase your chances of a successful fishing trip.
