Freshwater - TRAPPING LIVE BAIT

Setting and Baiting: The key to trap-setting success is proper positioning and attractive baitfish bait. Begin with a hand line that is long enough and strong enough to secure the trap in the intended area. In a current, point the entry down current; baitfish generally swim upstream. In calm water be sure to place your trap in an area free of obstruction. To lure the baitfish into the trap put small baits in a cheesecloth secured to the inside of your trap. This will prevent the bait from washing away too quickly. Popular minnow baits include bread, crackers, cotton seed cake, and Doc Chumly's Chum Sticks. Crawfish baits include fish entrails, liver, chicken parts and Doc Chumly's Chum Sticks.

MINNOWS
Minnows tend to choose areas of reduced current. Look behind rocks, logs, or anywhere current is blocked. When water levels are low, deeper holes and shaded pockets hold bait. In saltwater, find pinfish and other favorite baits around weedy flats, rocks or even pilings. Any type of cover will draw baitfish.

CRAWFISH
In shallow creeks or streams, keep your eyes open for deeper holes and pools with rocky bottoms. If you spot a mud bank out of the main current that has honeycomb-like groups of small holes, you've found a crawfish den.

**Always place traps funnel/entry end into the current, to help prevent movement of the trap. Bait fish naturally swim against the current, which makes it easier for them to enter the trap. In areas were current is present, you can add rocks to weight down the trap. This prevents any unnecessary movement