Anglers debate over the best way to catch fish. Fly guys are mostly about artificial flies that mimic bait. Spinning guys use flashy lures that look like minnows, frogs, mice, or crayfish.
A hungry fish will try to eat about anything when they are hungry, if it looks natural. I have caught fish on a cigarette butt, zip top, bottle cap, stick, and acorns. Presentation and timing are key.
To debate what bait is best we first need to separate Salt and Fresh water fishing.
SALT WATER
I would select squid. Everything that swims in the bays and ocean will feed on squid. They are oily, smelly, and nutritious.
FRESH WATER
If I could only pick one bait, it would be a night crawler. Worms can be used in both fresh and salt water effectively. They can be scented, inflated, and colorized to make for different presentations and flavors.
Now I know that walleye guys love minnows, where they are legal to use. Big fish always eat smaller fish. Minnows are a great bait. If Ice Fisherman could use live minnows in Canyon Ferry Reservoir, we would hammer the walleyes. The FWP outlaws live minnows in the western half of Montana.
During the Summer Hoppers, Crickets, and Cicadas are also a great bait, but just when in season.
There is also a boatload of gelly, stinky, floaty, gummy, salty, and pickled scented artificial baits. Fish roe/eggs are also popular. These all come in a variety of colors, sizes, and stick-on fun.
The absolute best bait is the one that catches fish!
Bite Me!
Montana Grant
