SUPERMARKET BAITS
Baits from a supermarket? You may not believe it, but it’s true. Each year, anglers catch fish on baits found in local supermarkets or grocery stores. Although they may not be as consistent as worms, lures and flies, you can catch fish on one of these bonus buys or weekly specials. Here are some supermarket baits to try.
CORN
Some anglers recommend yellow corn as the only true carp bait. Throwing a handful of whole kernels into an area where carp are spawning and then attaching three or four kernels to a small hook often brings a “carp attack.” Frequently, Rainbow Trout are caught from lakes and streams on a single kernel of yellow corn.
MINIATURE MARSHMELLOWS
Anglers successfully land trout using miniature marshmallows, especially stocked Rainbow Trout. They don’t look like hatchery pellets, but perhaps their color and smell attract fish.
This is an expensive way to go, and we don’t encourage anglers to purchase a pound or two for fishing! Cure them in the sun. A smelly shrimp fished at night for catfish is a sure-fire bait.
LIVER
Many catfish anglers value this bait, and the stronger the odor, the better it works.
MACARONI
Half-sections of cooked elbow macaroni work about the same as bread. It’s a little more difficult to use and store, but it catches panfish.
CHEESE
Velveeta seems to be the cheese of choice. Tiny pieces or balls used on a number 6 or 8 hook often catch trout. Sometimes, carp are caught on a “Velveeta lure.”
HOT DOGS
Small pieces of hot dogs are successful grocery store baits for Bluegills and perfect for those who can’t stand worms.
PEAS
Yes, peas catch fish. Many anglers take trout through the ice with peas.
BREAD
This is an old standby. Many farm pond anglers have used this bait. It works best when rolled into tight balls, but it doesn’t stay on the hook well. Some anglers mix it with ketchup to make it last longer in the water. You can buy commercially made doughbait for fishing. Many anglers use this bait on their trips to carp hideouts.
CHEWING GUM
Even though other supermarket baits are more common, chewing gum rolled into balls (after chewing) work well.