Silverside fish, also known as spearing, are a popular choice among anglers for use as bait due to their small size and shiny, reflective scales. They are highly effective in attracting a variety of fish species, including striped bass, flounder, and bluefish, making them a versatile option for both saltwater and freshwater fishing.

Properly using silverside as bait can increase your chances of a successful catch, and this guide on how to use silverside for bait will walk you through the essential steps and techniques to maximize their effectiveness.

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, understanding how to prepare and use silverside bait can make a significant difference in your fishing experience.

Why Use Silverside as Bait?

Before delving into the specifics of using silverside for bait, it’s essential to understand why this type of fish is a popular choice among anglers. One of the main reasons is their natural swimming motion and shiny scales, which make them incredibly attractive to predatory fish.

Additionally, silverside fish are typically abundant in coastal waters, making them an easily accessible and cost-effective option for bait.

Needed Materials

Silverside Fish:

The first step in using silverside for bait is to obtain the fish itself. Silverside can be caught using a variety of techniques, including nets and traps or by hook and line fishing. If you plan on catching them yourself, make sure to check local regulations and restrictions before heading out.

Alternatively, you can purchase fresh or frozen silverside from your local bait shop or tackle store. Fresh silversides are preferred as they have a more natural scent and appearance compared to frozen ones. However, if fresh silverside is not available, frozen ones will still work effectively as bait.

Bait Rig:

Once you have your silversides ready, the next essential material is a bait rig. A simple and effective rig for using silverside as bait is the fish finder rig, also known as the Carolina rig. This rig consists of a leader line with a sinker at one end and a hook on the other, allowing the bait to move naturally in the water.

Additional Tackle:

Aside from the main materials mentioned above, you will also need some additional tackle to use when fishing with silversides. This includes hooks suitable for catching your desired fish species, swivels to prevent line twists and pliers for handling small silverside fish.

8 Step-by-step Guidelines on How to Use Silverside for Bait

Step 1: Prepare Your Bait Rig 

Start by assembling your bait rig to ensure it’s ready for fishing. If you’re using a fish finder rig or Carolina rig, attach a sinker to your mainline, followed by a bead to protect the knot. Then, connect a swivel to the mainline to prevent twists.

From the swivel, attach a leader line—the length of this leader can vary depending on the type of fish you’re targeting, but a standard length is around 12 to 18 inches. Finally, tie a suitable hook to the end of the leader, ensuring the knot is secure to avoid losing the bait or fish. Once your rig is assembled, you are ready to move on to attaching the silverside bait.

Step 2: Hook the Silverside 

Properly hooking the silverside is crucial to ensure it stays secure on the hook and appears natural to the fish you’re trying to catch. Begin by holding the silverside gently but firmly to avoid damaging the bait.

Insert the hook through the mouth and carefully thread it through the body of the fish. Ideally, the hook should exit through the dorsal area, ensuring the bait remains balanced and mimics the natural motion of live fish when in the water.

This method provides optimal presentation and reduces the chance of the bait falling off during casting or retrieval. Once the silverside is securely hooked, you are ready to cast your line and begin fishing.

Step 3: Cast Your Line 

Silverside bait can be used in a variety of fishing styles, including surf fishing, pier fishing, and boat fishing. Once you’ve determined your preferred location for catching fish, make sure to cast your line with enough force to ensure it reaches the desired distance from the shore or boat.

Once your line is cast successfully, slowly reel it in while keeping an eye on your rod tip for any movements or bites.

Step 4: Reel In and Set the Hook 

As you feel a tug on the line or see movement on your rod tip, gently reel in the slack and wait for a firm pull before setting the hook. Setting the hook too early or aggressively can result in losing the fish, so make sure to time it correctly.

You can also vary your reeling speed and movements to imitate the natural behavior of a live fish, making it more appealing to predatory fish.

Step 5: Keep an Eye on Your Line 

Once your line is in the water, it’s important to remain attentive and monitor it closely. Look for subtle movements or changes in tension, as these can indicate that a fish is inspecting or nibbling on the bait. Avoid leaving your rod unattended, as a sudden strike could result in missed opportunities or even a lost rod.

Staying vigilant ensures that you’re ready to respond immediately when a fish takes the bait, increasing your chances of a successful catch.

Step 6: Re-bait as Needed 

As with any type of bait, silversides will eventually lose their scent and become less appealing to fish after some time in the water. To maintain a successful fishing session, it’s essential to check your bait regularly and replace it as needed.

If you notice that your silverside has been nibbled on or is looking less lively, re-baiting with a fresh one can make all the difference in attracting fish.

Step 7: Adjust Your Technique 

If you’re not getting bites or catching any fish, don’t be afraid to adjust your technique. Different species of fish may have different preferences for how they like their bait presented, so experimenting with different casting and reeling techniques can increase your chances of success.

Additionally, changing the location or depth at which you are fishing can also make a difference in attracting fish.

Step 8: Release Unwanted Fish

As with any type of fishing, it’s important to practice responsible angling and release any unwanted or undersized fish back into the water. This helps maintain healthy fish populations and ensures that future generations can enjoy fishing as well.

With these step-by-step guidelines on how to use silverside for bait, anyone can effectively use silverside as bait for a successful day on the water. Whether you’re an experienced angler looking for a new technique or a beginner trying out different baits, silversides can be a valuable addition to your fishing arsenal. So, grab some fresh or frozen silversides and give it a try on your next fishing trip! 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I Use Frozen Silverside for Bait?

A: Yes, frozen silversides can also be used as bait. Just make sure to properly thaw and handle them before hooking onto your rig.

Q: What Fish Can I Catch Using Silverside Bait?

A: Silversides can be used to catch a variety of predatory fish such as striped bass, bluefish, fluke, and weakfish.

Q: How Do I Store Unused Silversides?

A: If you have leftover silversides that you don’t want to use for bait, they can be stored in an airtight container or ziplock bag and frozen for future use. Just make sure to properly thaw them before using them as bait.

Q: Are There Any Other Baits That Work Well with Silversides?

A: Yes, silversides can also be used in combination with other baits such as squid, clams, or shrimp to increase your chances of attracting fish. Experimenting with different bait combinations can help you find the most effective one for your desired catch.

Q: Can I Catch Different Types of Fish Using Silverside Bait?

A: Yes, silversides can attract a variety of predatory fish, making it a versatile bait for different fishing styles and locations. However, it’s always best to research the specific types of fish that are known to be attracted to silversides in your particular area.

Conclusion 

Using silversides as bait can be a highly effective and versatile method for a successful fishing experience. With their natural appeal to predatory fish and ease of handling, silversides are a great choice for anglers of all skill levels. By following the step-by-step guide and tips on how to use silverside for bait provided, you can enhance your fishing techniques and increase your chances of landing a great catch.

Remember to stay attentive, experiment with different approaches, and practice responsible fishing by respecting size limits and releasing unwanted fish. Whether you’re fishing from the shore, a pier, or a boat, silversides can help make your next trip to the water both enjoyable and productive. Happy fishing!