Bait and Lure Selection

When to use this

When rigging up — match what you're using to the target species and conditions.

• First-time anglers who were handed a rod without a plan
• Switching techniques when nothing is working
• Choosing what to pack before a trip to an unfamiliar lake or river

What you need

• For live bait: nightcrawlers, wax worms, PowerBait, minnows (check regulations)
• For artificials: a selection of spinners (Mepps, Rooster Tail), soft plastic worms, small spoons
• A tackle box with assorted hook sizes (size 6–10 for small to medium fish)
• Split shot weights, bobbers, and swivels

Step by step

1. 1.Start with live bait if you're new or uncertain. A nightcrawler on a size 8 hook under a bobber catches bass, panfish, catfish, and trout. It's the closest thing to a universal first option.
2. 2.Panfish (bluegill, sunfish, crappie): small hooks (size 8–10), small baits. A piece of worm the size of your thumbnail is all you need. Bobber setup, shallow water, near structure.
3. 3.Trout in streams: match the hatch — look at what insects are on the water and match size and color. In the absence of a hatch, a small Mepps spinner or a gold Kastmaster spoon is reliable.
4. 4.Bass: soft plastic worms (4–6 inch, rigged weedless) fished slowly near structure. In spring when water is cold, slow down considerably — bass are lethargic.
5. 5.Catfish: strong-smelling baits near the bottom. Prepared catfish dough, cut bait, or nightcrawlers. Heavy sinker setup, no bobber, on the bottom.
6. 6.Water clarity guides color: in clear water, natural colors (brown, green, silver). In murky water, high-contrast colors (chartreuse, orange, black) are more visible.

Pro tips

• Ask the bait shop near the campground what's working. This 30-second conversation is worth more than any guide — they've been watching that specific water all week.
• Start simple: one rod, one rig, one bait choice. Master that before changing. Anglers who constantly switch lose time and confidence.

Common mistakes

• Using a hook that's too large for small species. Panfish can't swallow a bass hook; they hit and miss it every time.
• Storing nightcrawlers in the sun. They die in minutes in heat. Keep bait in the shade or a cooler.

Continue learning

• Fishing Basics

  Rod Setup and Casting

  Assemble a rod, tie on a hook, and cast cleanly.

• Fishing Basics

  Reading Water

  Fish hold in predictable places — learn to spot them before you cast.

• Fishing Basics

  Improved Clinch Knot

  The knot every angler ties first — attaches any lure or hook to monofilament.