12 best minnow bucket for livewell

A minnow bucket for a livewell is an essential accessory used by anglers, especially in freshwater fishing, to store and keep live baitfish, typically minnows, healthy and lively during a fishing trip. The minnows are often used as live bait to attract predatory fish species. Here's what you should know about minnow buckets for livewells:

  1. Purpose: The primary purpose of a minnow bucket for a livewell is to provide a suitable environment for keeping live baitfish alive and active. Live bait is attractive to many game fish species, such as bass, walleye, and pike, making it a valuable tool for anglers.

  2. Design: Minnow buckets for livewells are usually designed to be cylindrical or rectangular containers made of durable materials like plastic or foam. They are equipped with a lid or cover to prevent the baitfish from escaping.

  3. Aeration: A key feature of these buckets is an aeration system.A battery-operated aerator or air stone is placed in the bucket to provide a continuous supply of oxygen to the baitfish. Proper aeration is crucial for keeping the baitfish alive and healthy.

  4. Size: The size of a minnow bucket can vary depending on the number of baitfish you intend to carry. Smaller buckets are suitable for a few dozen minnows, while larger ones can hold hundreds.

  5. Attachment: Many minnow buckets are designed with attachment points or clips that allow them to be secured to the side of a boat or the edge of a fishing pier, making it easy to access and change bait while fishing.

  6. Insulation: In some cases, minnow buckets may be insulated to help maintain a consistent water temperature, which is especially important in extreme weather conditions to prevent baitfish stress.

  7. Maintenance: Proper maintenance is essential to ensure the health of the baitfish. This includes changing the water periodically, adding dechlorinated water if necessary, and cleaning the bucket to remove waste and debris.

  8. Use Cases: Minnow buckets for livewells are commonly used in various fishing scenarios, including freshwater angling for species like bass, crappie, and trout. They are also useful for ice fishing when live bait is preferred.

  9. Benefits: Using live bait from a minnow bucket can increase the chances of a successful fishing trip by attracting predatory fish more effectively than artificial lures. Live baitfish provide natural movement and scent that can entice fish to strike.

  10. Regulations: It's important for anglers to be aware of local fishing regulations and restrictions regarding the use of live bait and the types of baitfish allowed. Some areas have regulations to prevent the introduction of invasive species.

Minnow buckets for livewells are valuable accessories for anglers who prefer using live baitfish to target various fish species. Properly maintaining the bait and ensuring it remains lively in the bucket can significantly improve fishing success by attracting fish and enticing them to bite.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best minnow bucket for livewell on the market
  

Lindy Bait Tamer (1 Gallon)

Pradco Outdoor Brands

Based on 276 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Lindy Bait Tamer Fishing Bait Bag – Keeps live bait healthy and active. FLOAT'N WEIGHT SYSTEM: Bait Tamer keeps bait submerged but accessible to fishers; Ensures cleaner and livelier bait. SECURE STORAGE: Hook and loop opening closes securely. FLOW-THROUGH DESIGN: Aqua-Flex mesh material provides 100% circulation and ventilation. EASY TO USE: Easily folds for storage, but won't collapse while in use. WASHABLE FOR REUSE: Durable and washable material.

  • FLOAT'N WEIGHT SYSTEM: Bait Tamer keeps bait submerged but accessible to fishers; Ensures cleaner and livelier bait
  • SECURE STORAGE: Hook and loop opening closes securely
  • FLOW-THROUGH DESIGN: Aqua-Flex mesh material provides 100% circulation and ventilation
  • EASY TO USE: Easily folds for storage, but won't collapse while in use
  • WASHABLE FOR REUSE: Durable and washable material

User questions & answers

Question: I want to use this for keeping beer cold in the water, would this work for that
Answer: 9" diameter by 14" deep
Question: What is the exact size of the 1 gallon
Answer: I think that's no problem. I wear it to surf, run outside with my dog and of course use it a shower...it is non-slip sole, it seems not easy to break.
Question: Does it float
Answer: /Duration 0:34Loaded: 0.00%Stream Type LIVESeek to live, currently playing liveLIVERemaining Time -0:34 Playback Rate1xChaptersChaptersDescriptionsdescriptions off, selectedCaptionscaptions off, selectedAudio TrackFullscreenThis is a modal window. .noScriptDisplayLongText { display : none; } .noScriptNotDisplayExpander { display : none; } .noScriptDisplayLongText { display : block; } The flip flops actually have more arch support than most shoes. I would the this customer buy a size 10!
Question: What is the exact diameter of the 5 gallon? I want to make sure it will fit in my livewell
Answer: Yes my husband says these are the most comfortable flip flops he's ever worn. I have Aleader men's and they are so comfortable too. I would definitely wear these or mine on a long walk. Plus the men's pair are very stylish.

Frabill Wade Bucket | Galvanized Metal Bait Bucket

Frabill

Based on 615 reviews Check latest price
  • Frabill | Trusted By Anglers Since 1938
  • Two-piece bucket with bait strainer | Attach removable inner bucket to the dock for non-stop aeration
  • Constructed from tough galvanized steel for long-term use no matter how rough the waves | Capacity: 8 quarts | Dimensions: 10" x 10" x 7.8"
  • Large, easy-to-open access lid

User questions & answers

Question: Can I buy the metal minnow bucket for 19.99, and have it shipped to a friends house
Answer: It has a lid and no inner bucket...one part design. They do last though...my husband had one for over 20 years...lost it at the beach.
Question: Could this be used as an ice bucket for a bar
Answer: It probably would work, but the water may need to be very cold.
Question: For those who have had this bucket for several seasons has there been an issue with it rusting
Answer: Exact? Don't know. Its in Florida. BUt i "guess" its about 8' wide by 12" tall
Question: does this have a lid? is it a 2 part design - inner strainer buck and outer solid bucket
Answer: Hello, Yes this does float. Thank you,

Lindy Bait Tamer (5 Gallon)

LINDY FISHING TACKLE

Based on 218 reviews Check latest price
  • FLOAT'N WEIGHT SYSTEM: Bait Tamer keeps bait submerged but accessible to fishers; Ensures cleaner and livelier bait
  • SECURE STORAGE: Hook and loop opening closes securely
  • FLOW-THROUGH DESIGN: Aqua-Flex mesh material provides 100% circulation and ventilation
  • EASY TO USE: Easily folds for storage, but won't collapse while in use
  • WASHABLE FOR REUSE: Durable and washable material

User questions & answers

Question: Will this work hanging from a rope off a pier in saltwater
Answer: It should we put 6 lbs of minnows at a time.
Question: What are the measurements of the 1 gallon bag
Answer: yes but the bucket is junk unless you don't like the person I wouldn't send it
Question: Will this bag hold 15 to 20 dozen leeches at one time in my bait tank
Answer: I'm sure you can find a better ice bucket for cheaper. The bail will more than likely come off if it is carried full of ice. I had to weld a part on the bail to keep it from coming off half full of water
Question: Will this bag hold 15 to 20 dozen leeches at one time in my bait tank
Answer: Mine is completely rusted. It’s a mess. Can’t even use it anymore.

Flambeau Outdoors 6063BC Trolling 6 Quart Bait Bucket, Tie-Off Fishing Storage, Lime Green/White

Flambeau Inc.

Based on 375 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Flambeau Outdoors 6063BC Trolling 6 Quart Bait Bucket floats deeper than competition models to keep contained water fresher and cooler. The bucket has a sturdy tie-off handle for easy trolling. Features a V-shape back and wide design to prevent bucket from rolling over during retrieval. 6 quart capacity. Fits inside of a standard 5 gallon bucket for easy storage of your live bait. Measures 10" L x 6" W x 11.5" D. Made in the U.S.A. Physical product's green color shade for the lid may vary slightly from image shown.

  • DEEP TROLLING BUCKET: This trolling bait bucket floats deeper than competition models to keep contained water fresher and cooler.
  • SMART DESIGN: Sturdy tie-off handle for easy trolling. Features a V-shape back and wide design to prevent bucket from rolling over during retrieval.
  • 6 QT CAPACITY: This bait bucket has a 6 quart capacity. Fits inside of a standard 5 gallon bucket for easy storage of your live bait.
  • PROUDLY MADE IN THE U.S.A.: Since 1947, Flambeau Outdoors' bait storage has been engineered to perform, fish after fish, trip after trip, for a lifetime of use. BUILT TO FISH. BUILT TO LAST.
  • SPECIFICATIONS: Trolling Bait Bucket measures 10" L x 6" W x 11.5" D. Capacity: 6 quarts. MADE IN THE U.S.A.

User questions & answers

Question: How big are the holes. Need to hold helgamites. need about 3/8 inch
Answer: It is approximately 12" tall & 10"wide at the broadest part
Question: Is this Bucket a 1 piece or a 2 piece
Answer: Hello, This should work just fine for that. Thanks,
Question: Description says it's 6" wide. Is that measured at the white bucket or the yellow top
Answer: 1 Gal Bag? It's a 5 gal bag. Expanded, it's the same as a Home Depot Orange Bucket or close enough 5 gals...
Question: What are the measurements of this
Answer: yes

Product features

Bait Buckets

It's more than a bucket for storing bait, it's a tool for holding a fishing rod, attaching aerators, hanging hooks, whatever you need to add extra hands.

Bait Carriers

Our bait carriers are designed for proper all day or overnight storage to keep your bait preserved and fresh for your trophy.

Trolling Buckets

Reinforced collapsible handle and structure to prevent flexing while trolling. Durable and long lasting for all of your weekends on the water.

Aerators / Combos

Never let your bait slow you down from your ultimate goal. Keep it fresh and ready with our Aerators and Combo systems.

Flambeau Bait Storage

Flambeau bait storage is engineered not only to last but to perform from bow to stern for a lifetime of use.

About Flambeau Outdoors

As a family owned company from its foundation in 1947, that very philosophy remains the backbone of our brand and serves as the origin story of our logo—shared memories hunting and fishing by the Sauey family under sunrises over the Flambeau River. Over 73 years later, our company remains devoted to providing quality fishing products that are more than just standalone tackle storage solutions—we provide a legacy as a heritage brand that stands behind its product as the sportsman's and sportswoman's constant partner in the outdoors.

Marine Metal Products CB - 211 Cool Bubbles 8 - qt. Plastic Bucket & Pump Kit

Marine Metal

Based on 254 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Marine Metal Products CB - 211 Cool Bubbles 8 - qt. Plastic Bucket & Pump Kit

  • Crafted From The Highest Quality Material
  • Perfect For Outdoor And Even Indoor Use
  • Made In United States
  • Material Name:Synthetic

User questions & answers

Question: What is the metal ring thing that was packed with the Air Stone for
Answer: Yes! But I use Ted bubbler on a larger bucket!
Question: where do you buy replacemnt weighted air stones
Answer: The dimension of the holes on the front and back of the bucket are 3/16” diameter.
Question: Is this insulated
Answer: This Bucket is built to "Not" be taken apart. I is made of two pieces but will break it you pry them apart. I hope that this answers your question.
Question: Is it easy to clip the bubbler to the bucket, and insert the plastic tube from the bubbler into the bucket
Answer: yellow top.

Frabill 3047 Floating Dip Net White, One Size

Frabill

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Friendly to bait; friendly to tanks. This minnow net features a molded polyethylene net guard that eliminates abrasion when scraped against the inside of bait tanks. Nylon netting is soft to avoid bait stress or injuries. Accidentally drop it in the tank, and the handle will float!

  • Frabill | Trusted By Anglers Since 1938
  • This minnow net features a molded polyethylene net guard that eliminates abrasion when scraped against the inside of bait tanks
  • Nylon mesh netting is soft and bait friendly
  • Lightweight floating handle for easy retrieval if dropped
  • Great for bait dealers

User questions & answers

Question: What are the dimensions of the “Ring
Answer: Tiny maybe 3 inches
Question: Would it be good to catch sea shell
Answer: works good for minnows but don't know about sea shells.
Question: Is it stainless steel
Answer: It's not stainless steel. It's made out of a soft wire material. I never usted again after the first time because it broke.
Question: how long is the handle
Answer: The handle is 6 1/2" . The net is 4 1/2" long and about 3"wide.

Product features

Frabill 3047 Floating Dip Net

Friendly to bait; friendly to tanks. This minnow net features a molded polyethylene net guard that eliminates abrasion when scraped against the inside of bait tanks. Nylon netting is soft to avoid bait stress or injuries. Accidentally drop it in the tank, and the handle will float!

SPECS

  • HOOP SIZE: 3" x 5"
  • HANDLE LENGTH: 8"
  • PURSUIT: Bait
  • NETTING COLOR: White

Frabill Worm and Leech Lodge | Ventilated Storage for Worms and Leeches | Specially Designed for Walleye Fishermen

Frabill

Based on 193 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Frabill 4745 Worm and leech lodge live bait container. Features: Insulated foam insert and easy open twist-loc top. Dimensions: 6.25" diameter x 9.75" H.

  • Frabill | Trusted By Anglers Since 1938
  • Insulated foam insert and ventilated lid keeps bait fresh and healthy
  • Easy open twist-lock top
  • Compact design fits easily in most coolers and live wells | Specifically designed for leeches and worms

User questions & answers

Question: How big is the hole
Answer: We have used ours for leeches, so I don't know about worms and I believe my husband put about a dozen leeches in it.
Question: what is the interior trap used for
Answer: Helps keep on bottom
Question: The description and details show 2 different sizes what is the correct size
Answer: Uncle Roy's bait and tackle sells them for $1.19.
Question: How many worms can you put in container
Answer: It comes with a foam insulation container that fit inside the bucket you can remove it to clean

Marine Metal Aeratr Bubble Box 1.5V

Marine Metal

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Aerates up to 7-1/2 gallons. Runs up to 33 hours on 2 D cell batteries. Weighted airstone. Water resistant. 1.5 volt air pump.  Batteries not included.

From the Manufacturer

Marine Metal Products Bubble Box Air Pump turns any bucket, cooler or ice chest into a portable live well. With up to 40 hours operation on just 2 "D" batteries, this is the portable, affordable Pump to keep live bait alive and fresh. Aerates up to 8 gallons. Impact water resistant case with rubber booted switch. Beryllium copper battery contacts for longer battery life. Weight air stone with 24" of silicone air line tubing enclosed in pump. Large adjustable stainless steel clip for attaching to any bucket. Dry Box designed is designed to keep pump dry while in use. Each pump is individually tank tested to assure highest quality.

  • Pumps 1.4 STL / minute
  • Designed for fresh and saltwater use
  • Space saver clam shell package 4"W x 7.5"Lx 2"D
  • Pumps 1.4 STL/minute
  • Designed for fresh and saltwater use
  • Space saver clam shell package 4"W x 7.5"Lx 2"D

User questions & answers

Question: where is this made
Answer: It's 4 watts from what i remember.
Question: does the pump fit on the outside of the box and only the tube goes into the water? Does the whole thing submerge? I can't picture how this is used
Answer: You can airrate up to 8 gallons of water for 85 Hours On a set of batteries
Question: Will this work to make a livewell out of a 32 quart cooler? The cooler won't be completely full so it won't be exactly 32 quarts
Answer: La verdad si de la mejor calidad en oxigenadores y muy duraderos
Question: I only need to use this in 1 gallon of water. Can it run on 1 battery if it doesn't need much power? Thanks
Answer: The Marine Metal Products Bubbles Air Pump that I purchased through Amazon is battery operated. The unit I have is model "#B3". I suggest looking at the Marine Metal Products website: http://www.marinemetal.com/products to make sure the product you are considering has the features you want.

Engel 19 Qt Live Bait Cooler & Minnow Bucket - ENGLBC19-N

Unknown

Based on 254 reviews Check latest price

Product description

How could we improve upon a wildly popular industry standard? Well, we listened to our customer's feedback and implemented two important changes. First, we replaced the standard "hang tray" With an all-new pull net. This new feature makes fetching your bait and changing water A breeze. And it's designed to withstand wear and corrosion. Second, we moved the air tube port from the edge of the sidewall up into the lid. This should allow you to fill/use more of the box capacity, while also cutting down on the small overflow splashes that result from allowing the cooler to vent around the air tube. Our powerful 2-speed 2x2 Air pump keeps the water fully aerated, while the insulated cooler shields expensive bait from the elements. Plug into your car or boat's cigarette lighter using 12V adapter to run the pump overnight and keep bait fresh for the next morning, or use our optional match adapter which can be purchased separately to run off 110AC (match adapter not included).

  • Airtight EVA Gasket Seal Recessed Ergonomic
  • 2-Speed Pump Maximizes Aeration and Battery Life
  • Water-Resistant Housing Protects Motor and Suppresses Noise
  • Remove the Pump and Hose and Easily Convert to Cooler
  • Compact and Lightweight

User questions & answers

Question: When using cord do i need to remove battery
Answer: It Has A plug for your boat or vehicle. It takes 2 D batteries.
Question: What would br the best size for 3 to 4 dozen minnows (like 2 to 2 1/2 inch size). Is 13 qt large enough or would I need 19 qt
Answer: about 7 inches
Question: is this the version two
Answer: You can pick your bait up and the water will drain out of the interior trap. Then dump the water out of the outer bucket and put fresh water in it. Good for super hot days or if you plan on keeping your minnows several days.
Question: Can I attach toa 12 volt 7 amp battery? What type battery does it require
Answer: Both has a styrofoam insert in it you can remove

Product features

Convenient Net Included

Just pull up the included net for easy to access you minnows, shrimp or other live bait.

2 Speed, 3 way Aerator Pump

2 speed pump will run on 2 D Cell batteries, your cigarette car lighter connection or 110 volt.

Watertight Stainless Steel Latches

Marine grade stainless steel latches and EVA gasket, will ensure it doesn't spill on your car seat.

Engel keeps your expensive bait alive longer

Marine Metal 110 Air Dual A-2, Black

Marine Metal

Based on 381 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Marine Metal 110 Air Dual A-2, Black

  • Produces 99.5% saturation of dissolved oxygen
  • Complete ready to use systems
  • Weighted glass bead air stones, and silicone airline tubing included
  • Every unit is tank tested to assure quality
  • No batteries required

User questions & answers

Question: How long are the air hoses that come with this
Answer: I use these for tanks from 10gal size top to 60gals. Higher than that I use two.
Question: is it quite
Answer: It burns if you touch it. Probably a warning to prevent a lawsuit.
Question: Can anyone verify what the weights are made of? Using this to aerate/make vinegar and want to make sure it's safe
Answer: One should be good
Question: Can this be used outdoors
Answer: You should leave it on all the time. The water will become colder over night and constantly changing the temperature in the water can greatly stress out the fish and/or plants. I leave mine on 24 hours a day and it works fantastically.

Flambeau Outdoors 6062BC Premium Bait Bucket Lid, Easy-Access Live Bait Storage Accessory, Lime Green

Flambeau

Based on 143 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Flambeau Outdoors 6062BC Premium Bait Bucket Lid is designed to fit most standard diameter 3.5, 5 and 6 gallon buckets.The vented lid keeps your live bait oxygenated and fresh. Aerator tube holes allow you to use an aerator with it. Features a recessed cup holder and accessory rails for holding a fishing rod, attaching aerators, hanging hooks, etc. Premium Bait Bucket Lid measures 14.25" Dia. x 1" D. MADE IN THE U.S.A. Physical product's green color shade for the lid may vary slightly from image shown.

  • STANDARD BUCKET COMPATIBLE: This Premium Bait Bucket Lid is designed to fit most standard diameter 3.5, 5 and 6 gallon buckets.
  • EASY-ACCESS VENTED LID: The vented lid keeps your live bait oxygenated and fresh. Aerator tube holes allow you to use an aerator with this lid.
  • ACCESSORY RAILS: The premium lid features a recessed cup holder and accessory rails for holding a fishing rod, attaching aerators, hanging hooks, etc.
  • PROUDLY MADE IN THE U.S.A.: Since 1947, Flambeau Outdoors' bait storage has been engineered to perform, fish after fish, trip after trip, for a lifetime of use. BUILT TO FISH. BUILT TO LAST.
  • SPECIFICATIONS: Premium Bait Bucket Lid measures 14.25" Dia. x 1" D. Fits most standard diameter 3.5, 5 and 6 gallon buckets. MADE IN THE U.S.A.

User questions & answers

Question: What bucket will this fit? people complaining that it doesnt fit like a homedepot or lowes 5 gal bucket, what kind does it fit then
Answer: I removed the batteries out of caution and had no issues. I won’t use it any other way
Question: will this fit a cool bubbles 5 gallon bucket
Answer: 19 for the money
Question: Leakproof for car transportation
Answer: Yes, it is. This is the latest version of the live bait cooler. You can tell by the aerator tube coming in though the lid, not the side.

Product features

Bait Buckets

It's more than a bucket for storing bait, it's a tool for holding a fishing rod, attaching aerators, hanging hooks, whatever you need to add extra hands.

Bait Carriers

Our bait carriers are designed for proper all day or overnight storage to keep your bait preserved and fresh for your trophy.

Trolling Buckets

Reinforced collapsible handle and structure to prevent flexing while trolling. Durable and long lasting for all of your weekends on the water.

Aerators / Combos

Never let your bait slow you down from your ultimate goal. Keep it fresh and ready with our Aerators and Combo systems.

Flambeau Bait Storage

Flambeau bait storage is engineered not only to last but to perform from bow to stern for a lifetime of use.

About Flambeau Outdoors

As a family owned company from its foundation in 1947, that very philosophy remains the backbone of our brand and serves as the origin story of our logo—shared memories hunting and fishing by the Sauey family under sunrises over the Flambeau River. Over 73 years later, our company remains devoted to providing quality fishing products that are more than just standalone tackle storage solutions—we provide a legacy as a heritage brand that stands behind its product as the sportsman's and sportswoman's constant partner in the outdoors.

Engel 30 Qt Live Bait Cooler & Minnow Bucket - ENGLBC30-N

Unknown

Based on 213 reviews Check latest price

Product description

How could we improve upon a wildly popular industry standard? Well, we listened to our customer's feedback and implemented two important changes. First, we replaced the standard "hang tray" With an all-new pull net. This new feature makes fetching your bait and changing water A breeze. And it's designed to withstand wear and corrosion. Second, we moved the air tube port from the edge of the sidewall up into the lid. This should allow you to fill/use more of the box capacity, while also cutting down on the small overflow splashes that result from allowing the cooler to vent around the air tube. Our powerful 2-speed 2x2 Air pump keeps the water fully aerated, while the insulated cooler shields expensive bait from the elements. Plug into your car or boat's cigarette lighter using 12V adapter to run the pump overnight and keep bait fresh for the next morning, or use our optional match adapter which can be purchased separately to run off 110AC (adapter not included).

  • Airtight EVA Gasket Seal Recessed Ergonomic
  • 2-Speed Pump Maximizes Aeration and Battery Life
  • Water-Resistant Housing Protects Motor and Suppresses Noise
  • Remove the Pump and Hose and Easily Convert to Cooler
  • Compact and Lightweight

User questions & answers

Question: Will the 30q sustain 200 shrimp over night
Answer: no It works with one or the other.
Question: Would this works as a live well?? I have a bass raider and looking for a livewell to hit tournaments. Thanks for the tips
Answer: It would not fit on my Menard bucket properly (probably the same one as Lowe’s or Home Depot). I did have a random white bucket laying around and it fit perfectly on that one. Couldn’t tell you where I got that bucket though.
Question: Does this come with a dc power head or is it just ran on batteries? tia
Answer: Lid fits on a food grade bucket like a glove. Not so much on a blue Lowe’s bucket though. Don’t sit on this lid as it’s very hard to open after doing so and I’m 173lbs
Question: If I leave the batteries in the aeroator and plugged in cig lighter, will the battery backup work in case the cig lighter don't work
Answer: We suggest strapping down or making sure the bucket is secure for transportation. If the lid is on properly, it will prevent items from falling out, but is NOT 100% leak-proof.

Product features

Convenient Net Included

Just pull up the included net for easy to access you minnows, shrimp or other live bait.

2 Speed, 3 way Aerator Pump

2 speed pump will run on 2 D Cell batteries, your cigarette car lighter connection or 110 volt.

Watertight Stainless Steel Latches

Marine grade stainless steel latches and EVA gasket, will ensure it doesn't spill on your car seat.

Engel keeps your expensive bait alive longer

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