9 best live baits

Live baits are a popular choice among anglers for catching various species of fish.These baits are living organisms that are used to attract fish and entice them to bite. Live baits are typically used in freshwater and saltwater fishing and are known for their effectiveness in mimicking natural prey.

Some common types of live baits used in fishing include:

  1. Worms: Nightcrawlers, redworms, and earthworms are frequently used for catching a wide range of fish species, including panfish, bass, trout, and catfish.

  2. Minnows: Minnows are small fish that are often used as live bait to catch larger predatory fish, such as pike, walleye, and largemouth bass.

  3. Crickets: Crickets are commonly used for panfishing, particularly for species like bluegill and crappie. They are usually available at bait shops.

  4. Leeches: Leeches are another effective live bait, especially for catching walleye and pike in freshwater environments.

  5. Shrimp: In saltwater fishing, live shrimp are a favorite bait for a variety of species, including redfish, snook, and speckled trout.

  6. Baitfish: Depending on the region, various small fish species like shad, herring, and menhaden are used as live bait to attract larger predators.

  7. Insects: Some anglers use live insects such as grasshoppers, mealworms, and ants as bait for specific fish species.

Using live bait involves hooking the live organism through its body or head, depending on the bait and the fish species being targeted. Proper handling and storage of live bait are essential to keep them alive and active during your fishing trip. Bait buckets, coolers, and aerators are commonly used to maintain the bait's freshness and vitality.

Live baits are often preferred by anglers because they offer natural movement and scent that can be highly enticing to fish. However, using live bait responsibly is crucial to minimize harm to the bait and protect the environment. It's essential to follow local regulations and guidelines regarding the use of live bait to ensure sustainable and ethical fishing practices.

In summary, live baits are living organisms used by anglers to attract fish and increase their chances of a successful catch. They come in various forms, including worms, minnows, crickets, leeches, and shrimp, and are used in both freshwater and saltwater fishing to target a wide range of fish species. Proper handling and ethical use of live bait are essential to promote responsible fishing practices.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best live baits on the market
  

Flambeau Outdoors 6092BB Bait Butler- Live Bait Retrieval System, Integrated Lid System with Net for Easy Bait Retrieval

Flambeau Inc.

Based on 524 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The revolutionary live bait retrieval system - the Bait Butler solves the #1 problem of fishing with live bait: fishing for bait in order to bait the hook to fish. Yes, it's a mouthful. And a hassle. It shouldn't be. The Struggle Stops Here. Integrated lid system effortlessly fetches live bait for easy selection.

  • LIVE BAIT RETRIEVAL MADE SIMPLE: The unified lid system designed to fit any standard 5-gallon bucket (not included) features a built-in pull rod activated net that quickly and efficiently collects bait and brings it to the surface for easy selection.
  • HASSLE-FREE OPERATION: From shiners to shrimp, freshwater to saltwater, ice fishing to shore fishing, whatever the live bait bite might require
  • QUICKLY REFRESH BUCKET WATER WITHOUT LOSING BAIT: The Bait Butler conveniently combines the net, lid, and aerator into one unified system that can easily be detached for rereshing the water without losing bait.
  • INCLUDES FLAMBEAU PORTABLE AERATOR 1: 40-hour runtime on D Cell batteries (not included). Flexible air hose and weighted filtration stone.
  • FEATURES & SPECIFICATIONS: Fits most standard 5-gallon buckets (not included). Some initial user assembly required. The premium bait bucket lid features external loops and clips for hanging additional aerators, cup holders, hooks, and gear.
  • Sport type: Outdoor Lifestyle

User questions & answers

Question: Can you use this for pinfish
Answer: Oribe products do not contain any harsh sulfates. When people talk about sulfates in hair care, they are primarily referring to sulfate-based ingredients that work as cleansers (surfactants) in shampoos, such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES). Sulfate-based surfactants can be harsh, stripping natural oils, depleting color and irritating the scalp. Sulfate-free surfactants are typically more mild and less stripping. Sulfates also are responsible for foaming in shampoos, so sulfate-free shampoos also foam less. When Oribe launched 11 years ago before sulfate-free technology was perfected, we created shampoos with gentle sulfates, naturally derived from corn, oat and coconut. As sulfate-free technology evolved and consumer mindsets changed we created all new shampoo formulas with sulfate-free cleansers. All of our products are now sulfate free (SLS and SLES). If you have any further questions on this please email us at [email protected].
Question: will this keep bigger fish alive? or just minnow sized fish
Answer: Yes, it does smell good! All Oribe products have the Cote d'Azur fragrance.  One of the most common comments we receive is that our customers love the smell!
Question: Does it fit 5 gallon bucket
Answer: Yes, all Oribe products are safe for color treated hair.
Question: is the bucket included
Answer: I have thinning hair and it didn't make my hair fall out. It is suppose to give you volume for thinning hair and it did not work for me. I bought the shampoo and conditioner and it leaves hair soft and smells good.

Product features

Integrated lid system effortlessly fetches live bait for easy selection.
Easy, one-handed operation. Start fishing smarter.
A revolutionary live bait retrieval system: Fetch less. Fish more.
Bait Butler

The revolutionary new live bait retrieval system by Flambeau Outdoors - the Bait Butler solves the #1 problem of fishing with live bait: fishing for bait in order to bait the hook to fish. Yes, it's a mouthful. And a hassle. It shouldn't be. THE STRUGGLE STOPS HERE.

The unified lid system quickly detaches with bait in net for easily changing water to keep bait fresher, longer. With a simple pull the net collects bait and brings it to the surface while simultaneously opening the lid.

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.

Frabill Bait Box with Aerator | Live Bait Storage Cooler with Portable Aerator | 8-Quart Capacity

Frabill

Based on 372 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Frabill ice 14042 personal bait station 8 quart (replaces 1404). The results are in! in a recent national survey, four dozen out of four dozen minnows chose Frabill's min-o-life as their favorite live bait aeration system. It'S no wonder why; all min-o-life aeration products feature whisper drive technology. No more headaches from listening to the drone of buzzing bubblers! you'll hardly know they're working, but your bait sure will! maintain your peace of mind and keep the "live" in your bait with min-o-life live bait aeration products. Superior insulation features hard shell cooler design (8 qt. Capacity) keeps water and bait cooler lift-out net liner eliminates need for a minnow dip net; just lift and select your bait equipped with Frabill model 1423 portable aerator (whisper-drive quiet operation) (note: aerator requires 2 d-cell batteries, not included) the number one choice for maintaining minnows in hot summer conditions 8 quart capacity.

  • Frabill | Trusted By Anglers Since 1938
  • Includes: Portable aerator, air hose, air stone | Capacity: 8-quart | Power Source: Two D batteries (not included) | Dimensions: 15" x 8.5" x 8.5"
  • Portable aerator easily clips on lid turning the interior into a thriving oxygen-rich environment
  • Lift-out net liner for simple bait removal | Saltwater & Freshwater Tested

User questions & answers

Question: how is it powered
Answer: I'm not sure because I don't have that issue. I do know that if you color your hair, follow up with the joico k-pak color therapy it definitely helps with dryness. I use it every 2 weeks
Question: What is the approximate run time on a new set of batteries
Answer: We don’t have one. We dump into a smaller squirt bottle to make it easier to use.
Question: Is this large enough to sit on
Answer: Deep gold
Question: Do you have replacement baskets
Answer: Not really...

Product features

Frabill MIN-O-LIFE Personal Bait Station, 8-Quart

Keeping bait safe and aerated has never been easier. This cooler includes a portable aerator and accessories that easily attaches to the side for bait aeration on the go. Holds up to 8 quarts of water and bait – or whatever you decide you want to throw in it!

  • DIMENSIONS: 15" x 8.5" x 8.5"
  • CAPACITY: 8 quarts
  • POWER SOURCE: Two D batteries

Tan Live Bait Drybox/Cooler with 2 Speed Aerator Pump

ENGEL

Based on 223 reviews Check latest price

Product description

How could we improve upon a wildly popular industry standard? Well, we listened to our customers 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.

  • Quality Injection Molded (PP Copolymer) insulated with High-Grade molded Polystyrene Foam
  • Airtight EVA Gasket Seal Recessed Ergonomic
  • Carry Handles (ABS) & Integrated Shoulder Strap (PP) and Self-Stopping Hinge (ABS)
  • All Fittings Secured with Stainless Steel Screws
  • Stain and Odor Resistant. Non-Absorbent Surface Easy to Clean
  • 2-Speed Pump Maximizes Aeration and Battery Life
  • Water-Resistant Housing Protects Motor and Suppresses Noise

User questions & answers

Question: Does it have a built in net
Answer: Hi, The app is available for iOS. I'm not sure regarding integration with chief architect products.
Question: about a month ago i bought a engelbait cooler and used it 3 times now the aerator stopped pumping air how can i solve the problem
Answer: Yes. Comes with a pouch.
Question: does it come with batteries
Answer: Thank you for asking! It gives you a complete line as you can find in the 4th main photo in the listing. If you try to measure from one wall to the opposite wall, it gives you a complete line. I hope the answer is helpful.
Question: Does this live bait cooler work off battery's also
Answer: Yes the batteries are replaceable (important to me), and it does offer CM & MM, Inches, Feet (w/Fractions), and Feet (w/Decimal 1/10"). So far it meets, even exceeds my expectations.

Live Bait Chum Baitmaker Aquatic Nutrition 2 lb

Aquatic Nutrition

Based on 39 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The importance of live bait cannot be stressed enough. Rarely does anything out fish well-presented, locally caught live bait. "Time is money" as they say. Spending time in the early morning chasing bait goes against the strong urge to run out to your spot and start fishing. The faster you can "Make Bait". the faster you can go fishing. Bait maker is a moist product that is thrown to attract and concentrate baitfish to your location. Concentrated schools of baitfish and white bait are easier to throw a cast net on. In deeper water, schools of baitfish can be gathered with Bait maker and caught with a Sadiki rig. To Use: Grab a handful of Bait maker, squeeze it slightly and throw it to the desired location. Bait maker will disperse throughout the water column and attract a variety of species from down current. Bait maker sticks together when squeezed and allows you to place it where you want, regardless of wind speed. No more getting covered with fine powder. No more stinky, canned attractants.

  • Makes it easier to catch bait
  • Attracts bait fish to you
  • Great for cast-netting or using a sadiki
  • Disperses in water column and attracts many species
  • Spend less time getting bait and more time fishing

User questions & answers

Question: Does this work for whitebait
Answer: Hi Jerry J! You do not need to add 5" to your measurement, it always calculates from the back of the tool. Thank you for your question!
Question: What is the consistency? is this pre-moistened? i'm familiar with purina fish food chum. thanks
Answer: Good Morning, Skil Laser 100 calculates from the back of the unit. Thank you for your question!
Question: Does it sink
Answer: Hi redluckyladybug! Yes, you can switch the unit to display in inches. Thank you for your question.

Boone Single Hook 2/0 Live Bait Rig (Pack of 2), 1# 2 Treble Hook

Boone Bait

Based on 33 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Uncoil and insert the live bait hook through the nostrils. Next, pin the treble hook by the dorsal fin or let it swing freely

From the Manufacturer

Uncoil and insert the live bait hook through the nostrils. Next, pin the treble hook by the dorsal fin or let it swing freely.

  • Boone's LIVE BAIT RIG SINGLE HOOK 2/0, 1 # 2 TREBLE HOOK 2 PK
  • 5 rigs per pack
  • Tournament grade Live Bait Rigs are ready to fish
  • Trolling speed slow
  • Dave Workman Pro Series

User questions & answers

Question: Are there 2 in a pack or
Answer: Hi MamaFish! A total of four measurements are shown on the screen. Thank you for your question!

Frabill Aqua-Life Portable Aerator

Frabill

Based on 433 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Frabill Aqua-Life Portable Aerator. Keep your saltwater bait swimmin'. You can't screw this up. The most difficult part of this Aerator is putting in the batteries, and even that is easy. When it arrives, simply take it out of the package, remove the battery cover and put in the batteries. After that, all you've got to do is attach it to a bucket and put the stone, with hose attached, on the bottom of the bucket. Once you flip it on, it will start producing the oxygen that your bait'll need to survive longer. It was specifically designed and tested on saltwater bait. See, told ya you can't screw it up. Keep bubblin': Effectively aerates up to 10 gallons; Includes aerator hose and stone; Clips to any bucket; Runs on two D batteries (not included); Measures 5" x 4 1/4" x 2"". Keep your bait breathing with this great value. Order yours today! Frabill Aqua-Life Portable Aerator

  • Frabill | Trusted By Anglers Since 1938
  • Includes: Aerator, air hose, air stone | Capacity: 10 gallons | Power Source: Two D batteries (not included)
  • Tangle-free netting prevents hook snags
  • Saltwater & Freshwater Tested

User questions & answers

Question: How much air (oxygen ) does it produce (pump into the water
Answer: look around on the item it is usually listed on it.
Question: Is the hose removable? I need to put a longer hose on
Answer: as of right now, November 2018
Question: Contradiction in description : Up to 6 - OR - 10 gallons
Answer: I really don't know about HOT water. I used my disposable Kodak in warm ocean water, probably 80 or so.
Question: How long is the battery life in this pump
Answer: June 2020

Product features

Frabill Aqua-Life Portable Aerator

This portable aerator comes with everything you need to aerate up to 10 gallons of fresh or saltwater. It's compact enough to fit in a pocket so you can take it to keep bait fresh and lively wherever you go.

FEATURES

  • Aerates up to 10 gallons
  • Easily clips to any bucket
  • One-touch on/off switch

Gamakatsu 25 Pack Live Bait Hook (Black, 2/0)

Gamakatsu

Based on 24 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Gamakatsu is the leading fish hook manufacturer in Japan, and for that matter worldwide. Gamakatsu is constantly testing new materials and striving to improve their products which already set the standard for the rest of the industry. In 1992 Gamakatsu USA Inc. was established to provide Gamakatsu brand hooks to the U.S. market, followed by SPRO, The Official Gamakatsu's exclusive agent, established in the Netherlands in 1994 to service the European market.

  • Significantly increase you chances of landing the catch
  • Made environmentally friendly
  • Used by professional anglers worldwide
  • Closed eye
  • Forged steel
  • Barbed
  • Black anodized

User questions & answers

Question: Are these the heavy or light version
Answer: Pretty good size, bigger than hand wipes
Question: Que tamaño tienen los anzuelos
Answer: Yes they are pretty wet and clean well
Question: Are these
Answer: Yes. They are wrapped individually.
Question: Are 4 size smaller than the 2 size
Answer: U have 12 boxes n 16 is n each box come to 192
Question: Have anyone use this hook for tautog
Answer: No it doesn't so you'll have to rely on the sun for lighting. I used it in the Riviera Maya and had 2 cameras. Only 1 picture out of 54 developed correctly and even that one wasn't very clear. You really need the sun to be shining in the area you're taking a picture of.

Product features

ULTRAPOINT

Mustad's UltraPoint technology ensures incredible sharpness without compromising strength. UltraPoint hooks are 20% sharper and designed to stay sharper longer, so you can keep casting without changing your lure or sharpening hooks.

GRIP-PIN

Mustad Grip-Pin technology is designed with a molded resin pin that securely anchors a wide range of baits to the hook for a "no slip, no slide" design that extends the life of your bait.

TRIPLE GRIP

Mustad Triple Grip hooks combine exceptional hooking and holding capability with outstanding strength. They feature a precise shape that almost "locks" a fish into the elbow of the bend, making it virtually impossible for the fish to throw the hook.

NOR-TEMPERED

Mustad Nor-Tempering is 30% stronger than standard wire without being brittle. No broken points means more fish caught.

TECHNICAL SUPERIORITY BUILT ON LEGENDARY HERITAGE

Since 1877, our legendary Nordic craftsmanship has been used in virtually every body of water on Earth. Our innovations have set the standard in modern fish hook manufacturing and quality. We continue to push the limits with premium hooks for every species - from 1,000-pound Tuna to 3-pound Trout. While our heritage of excellence began with our tackle, it is constantly expanding across the entire fishing world, proving our passion for our people, our customers, our sport, and our planet.

Premium grade of high carbon steel is used for superior strength and durability
Conically needle honed points that are sharp from the package and stay sharp
About Gamakatsu

Gamakatsu is a fishing hook manufacturer. Gamakatsu is constantly testing new materials and striving to improve their products which already set the standard for the rest of the industry.

In 1992 Gamakatsu USA inc. was established to provide Gamakatsu brand hooks to the U.S. market, followed by SPRO, The Official Gamakatsu’s exclusive agent, established in the Netherlands in 1994 to service the European market.

When anglers purchase Gamakatsu hooks, they are buying an original product made exclusively by GAMAKATSU.

The Environment Has Our Attention

Since 1955, Gamakatsu has strictly adhered to the theme of “Nature and Technology”. We work hard to develop new, hi-tech products that benefit today’s discriminating anglers without adversely effecting the environment.

Frabill Bait Station Bucket | Large Aerated Live Bait 6-Gallon Storage

Frabill

Based on 102 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Frabill ice 14691 aqua-life bait station 6 gallon (replaces 1409, 1469). The 1469 AquaLife bait station breathes new life to the already popular 1409. The aerated condo can keep up to 10 quarts of water at the perfect condition with its removable micro-bubble diffuser. It also comes with a heavy-duty insulated liner to keep drastic changes in water temperature from turning your minnows belly up. Power options: 2 d-cell batteries, 12-volt adapter for boat or truck use, or by 120 volt adapter port for long-term use at home (120 volt adapter not included).

  • Frabill | Trusted By Anglers Since 1938
  • Removable aerator module in lid and micro-bubble diffuser effectively aerates up to 6 gallons of water keeping live bait
  • Tangle-free netting prevents hook snags
  • Includes: Bait bucket, integrated aerator, 12V power adapter, 10-quart removable insulated liner, hook for bait net

User questions & answers

Question: How much does it make your bait alive
Answer: No, this product is amazing. I use it whenever my skin feels dry. It is very hydrating at a wonderful price. Love it.
Question: Do you sell the lid / motor separate
Answer: According to the Olay website this product contains Hyaluronic acid and B3 vitamins.
Question: Do have any kind of warranty on this item? I had it for three weeks and the air pump burnt out and quit working
Answer: Yes the jar has a foil seal.
Question: did they change something, I’ve had mine for 8 years and it just stopped now, I want to buy another one but everyone says the pump doesn’t work good
Answer: It is not. It smells like dryer sheets. I didn’t like it at first, but it grows on you. I have been using this moisturizer for over a year, it’s amazing.

Product features

Frabill Bait Station Bucket | Large Aerated Live Bait 6-Gallon Storage

Breathe new life into your bait management system. This massive aerated bucket maintains up to 10 quarts of water in perfect conditioning thanks to a micro-bubble diffuser and heavy-duty insulated liner. The aerator and liner are both removable, allowing the 6-gallon bucket to carry any load for any project.

Features

  • Removable aerator module in lid
  • Whisper quiet operation
  • Micro-bubble diffuser
  • Clamp-on lid design
  • Water-tight seal
  • 10-quart removable insulated liner
  • Hook for bait net
  • Effectively aerates up to 6 gallons

LIVE TARGET BBS116MS703 Blueback Herring Jointed Bait, Saltwater, 4 1/2", 6/0 Hook, Medium/Slow Sinking Speed, Green/Bronze, Multi, One Size

Green Supply

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

Product description

"Blueback lakes" Are notoriously challenging to catch fickle bass and stripers. But make no mistake; anglers who can hone in on a herring Bite are often the tournament WINNERS. With three sizes and a medium-slow sink speed, LiveTarget is delivering a herring swimbait that looks like it just jumped out of the bait well. Freshwater. Specifications: - type of water: salt water - size: 4 1/2" - hook size: 6/0 - sink speed: medium/slow - weight: 3/4 oz - color: green/bronze - quantity: per 1

  • Country Of Origin: China
  • Product Type: Suitcase
  • Item Package Dimensions: 2.1 L X 8.8 W X 13.4 H (Cm)
  • Item Package Weight: 0.04 Kilograms

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