Fishing is one of the most popular outdoor recreational activities in the United States. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service estimates that 30 million Americans went fishing in 2006. Nearly 85 percent of anglers went freshwater fishing. Different baits can improve your catch percentage. Consider the type of fish you are targeting as well as the conditions of the site. Some types offer a better fishing experience due to the way they handle in weeds or other obstructions. The feeding patterns of the fish will also influence your choice.
Plastics
Plastic baits come in a variety of sizes, colors and shapes. You will find plastic baits resembling grubs, crawfish, other fish and prey species. The advantage of using these types of bait is convenience. You don't have to worry about keeping live bait or dealing with the mess of hooking your bait. You can also match plastic bait to the type of fish and its food. Bluegill, for example, prefer underwater insects and small minnows. A plastic resembling a common food item may lead to more strikes.
Spinner Baits
Spinner baits resemble the body shape of prey fish. A metal triangle connects metallic elliptical shapes and what looks like the upper portion of a fish. There may be one or more blades on the bait. A skirt of plastic fringe covers the hook. When you reel the bait in, the spinning action of the blades can catch the sunlight, giving a predator fish the impression of a dying minnow. You can also use these baits at night. The motion of the blades allows a fish to hone in on it using its lateral line, the sensory organ for detecting movement found along the length of its body. Spinner baits are efficient choices for predator fish such as northern pike and walleye.
Crank Baits
Like some other baits, crank baits resemble prey fish. Their design gives them a realistic action in the water. They often include more than one treble hook with one at the end of the bait and another in the middle. These baits are effective for preventing loss of fish. Once hooked, a fish is unlikely to throw the bait. However, it is also a disadvantage when it comes time to release the fish. You will need to take extra care when removing the hook or hooks to prevent sticking yourself.
Live Baits
Live baits offer ways to improve your catch percentage. You will find a variety of types from crickets, to leeches, to minnows. As with other types of bait, you should match the bait with the intended target. While effective, the primary disadvantage is storage. In some states, you cannot release leftover minnows into lakes because of risks to native populations. Live baits are relatively inexpensive when compared to artificial baits. When it comes to fishing success, you will find your best chances using bait that resembles a natural food source.
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