Fishing with Live Bait & Natural Baits
Crayfish, often referred to as crawfish or crawdads, are freshwater crustaceans that closely resemble lobsters. Crayfish are very popular as bait for a variety of game fish. Largemouth bass, smallmouth bass and walleye are some of the more popular fish that anglers will target with crayfish. There are many other species that can be caught on crayfish as well. Before you decide to go out and catch some crayfish or use crayfish as bait, make sure to check your regulations for your state. Some crayfish are considered invasive species and there are laws prohibiting anglers from using them as bait, transporting them into different waters and even controlling how you can catch them. If you are allowed to use them as bait, they can be very effective. If not, take a look at the numerous jigs and crankbaits on the market that resemble a crayfish. These will help you put more fish into the boat.
Soft shell crayfish is one of the better baits for so many species of fish. Most people do not know what a soft shell crayfish is. Much like soft shell crabs, crayfish, or crawfish, will molt their hard shells each spring. This usually occurs between April and June in the south. They are a lot easier for fish to eat during this time. If you can get them for bait, they are very good for many species of fish. Most anglers will use pieces of them for panfish. They are excellent baits for perch, however, any fish that eats a crayfish will also eat a soft shell crayfish. They work very well for smallmouth bass and largemouth bass too.
