However, it is also a good alternative to worms when targeting Panfish. Fishing with Leechesįishing with Leeches is popular at deeper depths for larger game-fish like Walleye. Wait for the bobber to go under or move erratically for over 5 seconds and you have a fish on! Check out our Ultimate Guide on Fishing for Beginners to learn how to tie this rig.

Cast your worm + float combination near docks or weedlines in 3-6 Ft. Rig up #4 Baitholder Hook + 3/0 Removable Split Shot Sinker + 1″ Clip-On Bobber like those in our basic fishing kit. For Largemouth Bass thread a full worm onto a 3/0 EWG Worm Hook with a 1/4 Oz. Pinch into 1/4 pieces for Panfish on a smaller #4 or #6 Baitholder Hook. Red Worms are an ideal choice for Trout in streams and stocked lakes. Virtually ALL Freshwater Species will take a worm but they’re best used to target common Panfish and smaller Bass off the dock or near shore. Store in the refrigerator at home and keep in the shade while out on the water. If dug from home keep in a jar with breathing holes poked into the lid. Sold in Styrofoam containers by 1 or 2 dozen. Nightcrawlers in a 12 Count Styrofoam Cup Storage A dozen to 2 dozen worms should do for a day’s trip. These are often sold or stored in foam containers with breathable lids. Nightcrawlers and Red Worms are popular option to purchase at your local baitshop or dig them up in your own backyard. Worms are a staple of bait shops and fishing them is the most common live bait option across the US.

Insects: Wax Worms (Grubs), Meal Worms, Crickets and Grasshoppers.

Minnows: Flatheads, Shad, Golden Shiners, Suckers, and Creek Chubs.

The following is a list of the most common types of fish bait found at a live bait & tackle shop: This rundown will focus on some popular options for common fish types that are most applicable to the entry level. I’m going to stick with Freshwater live bait for this article, but if you’re fishing Saltwater then head over to our Saltwater beginner guide. There are TONS of different types of fish bait used in various regions across the US in Freshwater and Saltwater. We show you how to rig live bait, when to use it and for what fish species. This beginner’s fishing guide will give you the rundown of the popular types of fish bait.

Download live wax worms for fishing