Things You'll Need:
- Bait bucket
- Aerator
- Balsa-wood bobber
- Split shot weights
- 1/0 to 2/0 rounded hooks
- Dip net
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Step 1
Purchase your bait from any local bait shop that sells live bait such as minnows, small perch (if legal in your state) or goldfish, all of which are effective for bass. Bait fish will normally come in a bag with filled oxygen. Leave bait fish in the bag until you arrive at your fishing destination. This will keep your bait fish lively and decrease the use of your batteries in your aerator.
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Step 2
Transfer the bait fish to your bait bucket and turn on your aerator. Throw away the plastic bait fish bag or store it with you until you can properly dispose of the bag. Proceed to your intended bass fishing area.
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Step 3
Rig your line by taking a 1/0 or 2/0 rounded fish hook and securing it to your line with a proper fisherman's knot. Attach a balsa-wood bobber to the line at least 3 feet above the hook.
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Step 4
Secure a split shot weight to the line anywhere from 6 inches to 2 feet above the hook. The amount of distance of the weight from the hook will determine the action of the bait fish.
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Step 5
Use a small dip net to remove a bait fish from your bait bucket. This will help maintain proper conditions in your bait bucket and help to avoid contamination. Hook the bait fish either through the lips or behind the dorsal fin. Both methods are equally effective.
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Step 6
Cast out to your intended fishing zone. When a strike occurs, the bobber will drop under the water. Wait at least 2 to 3 seconds before setting the hook to help insure that the bass has fully inhaled the bait.
