How to Catch Garden Worms for Bait

Worms can be dug up from the soil in your yard.

Fishing is a relaxing and rewarding pastime, but can be expensive considering the cost of a pole, tackle box and tackle. You can cut the cost of your fishing trip by obtaining live bait yourself in your own backyard. Worms are free and attract a variety of popular fish such as trout or bass. With a few materials and a bit of elbow grease you can dig up these invertebrates to attract fish to your hook.

Things You'll Need

• Flashlight
• Bucket (for your worms)
• Garden fork or shovel
• Garden gloves (optional)

Instructions

1. Step lightly in your garden to begin your worm gathering. Worms are blind, but they can sense vibrations and they will leave an area that is disturbed by heavy steps. Wait until nighttime; worms like cool, dark places.

2. Use your garden fork or your shovel to disturb the soil. You can also use a pitchfork. Insert the fork (or shovel) up to the base of its shaft for the proper depth.

3. Use your flashlight to periodically to check the soil for worms. When you see one, proceed to Step 4.

4. Firmly grasp the worm. Worms will try to wriggle away, so you have to hold on, but if you pull too hard you could pull it apart. After approximately a minute the worm will stop wriggling and you'll be able to pull it out of the ground.

5. Place the worms in your bucket, along with soil. Do not crowd the worms, include enough soil for them to burrow in and have a little dirt to themselves.

Tips & Warnings

• Another way to collect worms is after a heavy rainstorm. Worms will be above ground. Again, it's best to wait until nighttime. They will be in the topsoil of your garden and can also be seen on sidewalks, driveways and blacktops.

References

• Back Woods Home: Catch Your Own Bait
• Oscar Fish Lover: How to Catch Garden Earthworms

Resources

• Animal Corner: Worms