When I was a young kid just starting out fishing with my dad and grandpa, catching bait was one of the most confounding parts of the experience. We had to get live worms or minnows to use on our hooks, but capturing those squirmy critters seemed impossible. Whether trying to scoop up minnows from a local creek or dig worms out of the damp earth, it always felt like we were clumsily chasing our bait around more than catching anything. 

Over many frustrating outings on the water as a new angler, I gradually learned some helpful techniques and strategies for efficiently gathering the best live bait. Now, whenever I take someone new fishing, teaching them how to catch bait is one of the first skills I like to impart. In this post, I’ll share some of the simple yet effective methods to catch bait fish that you will need to catch all the bait fish and worms you need for a successful fishing trip.

Necessary Items

Before getting into the specific techniques for catching bait fish, gathering all the necessary supplies is essential. Here are some items that you’ll need to have on hand before heading out to catch bait:

• A sturdy bucket or container with a lid: This will serve as your live bait tank while you’re out fishing.
• A small net: This will help you scoop up minnows and other small fish from the water.
• A bait trap: This is used to catch worms, crayfish, and other smaller bait fish like shiners or crawdads.
• A shovel or trowel: For digging up worms from the ground.
• Optional items: Some anglers may use a dip net or a seine (a large, fine-meshed net) to catch bait fish.

10 Techniques on How to Catch Bait Fish

Technique 1: Scooping Minnows

One of the easiest and most common ways to catch bait fish is by scooping them up from shallow water with a small net. This works best in clear, slow-moving streams or ponds where you can see the minnows swimming around. Simply place your net near the bottom of the water and move it around slowly until you have a good amount of minnows trapped inside. Be sure to handle the fish gently and transfer them to your bait tank immediately.

Technique 2: Using a Bait Trap

Bait traps are famous for catching smaller bait fish like shiners, sunfish, and crayfish. These traps come in various sizes and designs, but they all work on the same principle – bait goes in, and baitfish get trapped inside. To use a bait trap, place some kind of bait (bread, meat, or even small pieces of hotdog) inside it and submerge it in shallow water near the shore. Leave it for a few hours, and then check to see if you have any bait fish caught inside.

Technique 3: Digging for Worms

Worms are a staple bait for many types of fish and can be found in most areas with damp soil. Use a shovel or trowel to carefully dig through the dirt in your yard, garden, or nearby fields to catch worms. Look for moist areas where worms are likely to burrow down deep. Once you find a worm, gently pull it from the ground and place it in your bait tank. Repeat this process until you have enough worms for your fishing trip.

Technique 4: Using a Dip Net

A dip net is similar to a small hand-held net but has a more extended handle, making reaching deeper water easier. This tool is handy for catching shrimp and other tiny bait fish swimming near the surface. Simply dip the net into the water and scoop up any bait fish you see. Handle them gently and transfer them to your bait tank immediately.

Technique 5: Using a Seine Net

A seine net is a giant dip net with a broader mesh that can be dragged through the water to catch larger quantities of bait fish. This method is typically used in deeper water or to catch more minor, elusive fish. To use a seine net, two people should hold either end and wade through the water while pulling it behind them. Once you have collected enough bait fish, carefully transfer them to your bait tank.

Technique 6: Using a Light

Some baitfish, particularly smaller ones like minnows, are attracted to light. This makes them easier to catch at night using a flashlight or lantern. Simply shine the light onto the water and wait for the bait fish to swim towards it. Then, use a net or dip net to scoop them up and transfer them to your bait tank.

Technique 7: Handlining

Handlining is a technique that has been used for centuries to catch bait fish. It involves using a simple fishing line with a small hook and bait attached. Simply drop your line into the water near where you see bait fish swimming and wait for them to take the bait. Once you feel a tug on the line, gently pull it out of the water and transfer the bait fish to your tank.

Technique 8: Using a Fish Finder

A fish finder is an electronic device that uses sonar technology to locate schools of fish in the water. While primarily used for catching larger game fish, some anglers also use them to find schools of bait fish. Once you’ve located the bait using the fish finder, you can use any of the techniques listed above to catch them.

Technique 9: Casting a Cast Net

A cast net is a circular net with weights around its edges that can be thrown into the water to trap bait fish. To use a cast net, stand on the shore or in shallow water and throw the net out in front of you. The weights will cause it to sink and trap bait fish underneath. Once the net has settled on the bottom, slowly pull it in and transfer the trapped bait fish to your tank.

Technique 10: Using a Trolling Rig

A trolling rig can effectively catch larger bait fish like herring or mackerel. This method involves slowly towing a series of hooks behind a boat or other watercraft. The bait fish are attracted to the movement and will try to take the bait on the hooks. Once you feel a tug on the line, reel it carefully and transfer your catch to your bait tank.

5 Things to Avoid When Catching Bait Fish

While there are many effective techniques for catching bait fish, you should also avoid some things. Here are some common mistakes to keep in mind:

1. Using a Net With Large Holes

Avoid using a net with large holes, as this can allow bait fish to escape while you are trying to catch them. It’s best to use a net with a fine mesh that will not let the bait fish slip through.

2. Using a Net With Sharp Edges

Like using a net with large holes, avoid using nets with sharp edges as these can harm the delicate scales and fins of bait fish. Opt for traps with rounded edges to prevent any unnecessary injury.

3. Using a Net With Heavy Weights

Using a net with heavy weights can also cause harm to bait fish if it accidentally hits them while trying to catch them. Instead, opt for lighter weights or no weights at all.

4. Disturbing the Water Too Much

When catching bait fish, be mindful of how much you disturb the water. Excessive splashing and noise can cause bait fish to scatter, making them harder to catch.

5. Using Bait That Is Too Large

When using live bait, make sure it is an appropriate size for the type of bait fish you are trying to catch. Using an appeal that is too large will not attract smaller bait fish and may even scare them away.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Types of Bait Fish Are Commonly Used for Fishing?

Some popular bait fish include minnows, shiners, herring, mullet, and mackerel. The best type of bait fish to use will depend on the specific species of fish you are trying to catch.

Is It Okay To Use Bait Fish As Live Bait?

Live bait fish is a common and effective method for catching larger game fish. Just follow local regulations regarding using live bait in your area.

How Can I Keep My Bait Fish Alive?

To keep your bait fish alive, ensure they have enough space and oxygen in your bait tank. You can also add some plants or other objects for them to hide in and feel more secure. Change the water regularly and avoid overcrowding the tank.

What Is the Best Time of Day To Catch Bait Fish?

Baitfish are typically most active during dawn and dusk, so these are the best times to catch them. However, using a light or fish finder can also be beneficial at night.

Conclusion

Catching bait fish is essential for any angler looking to have a successful fishing trip. Using these techniques on how to catch bait fish, you can easily catch a variety of bait fish for your next fishing adventure. 

Just remember to handle the bait fish gently and transfer them to your live bait tank as soon as possible to keep them alive and healthy.  So, the next time you’re heading out on a fishing trip, remember these techniques and always have a reliable bait source at your disposal.