When it comes to fishing in a bay, selecting the right bait is essential for a successful catch. The type of bait you use can vary depending on the species of fish you’re targeting and the season.
Live bait is a popular choice for bay fishing. Some of the most common live baits used are shrimp, crabs, and minnows. Live bait can be purchased from bait shops, but you can also catch your own if you have a cast net or crab trap. Shrimp are a popular bait for catching redfish and trout. Crabs are a great choice if you’re targeting sheepshead or black drum. And minnows are a go-to choice for catching both freshwater and saltwater fish, as they are effective for catching just about any type of fish.
Artificial lures are another option for bay fishing. These baits come in many shapes and sizes, from soft plastics that mimick worms or crayfish to crankbaits that imitate baitfish. One of the benefits of using artificial baits is that they can be reused multiple times, which can save you money in the long run. They can also be moved through the water at different rates, so you can experiment with different speeds to see what works best.
One important consideration when selecting bait for bay fishing is the tides. During high tide, baitfish and other prey will be pushed up into shallow areas, so fishing with live bait can be particularly effective. During low tide, you may want to switch to artificial lures that can be worked through deeper channels and channels more effectively.
In general, the key to selecting the right bait for bay fishing is to do a little research and experimentation. Get to know the species that are prevalent in your area, and try different types of bait until you find the ones that work best for you. With a bit of practice, you’ll be reeling in your limit in no time. Happy fishing!