How to Cut Bait for Catfish

Minnows are often cut for bait to attract catfish.

Catfish are found in lakes, rivers, large streams and ponds; they commonly feed on decaying rodents and fish along the bottom. Cut-bait is favored by many anglers who use silver minnows, anchovies, sardines, shad or mackerel to attract and catch catfish. Using cut bait is a preferred method of catfishing as it allows the scent of the bait fish to disperse more readily throughout the water. Cut bait can be prepared ahead of time or just before fishing.

Things You'll Need

• 4- to 5-inch mackerel, minnow, sardine or anchovy
• Fillet knife
• Fillet board or work surface

Instructions

1. Net minnows, sardine, anchovy or mackerel that are 4 to 5 inches in length. Obtain fresh bait from a bait and tackle shop or other reliable source. Purchase baitfish that appear lively.

2. Position the minnow horizontally on a cutting board or work surface. Turn the baitfish so that it lies horizontally in front of you. This make it easily accessible for cutting.

3. Hold the baitfish securely with one hand and the fillet knife in the other hand. Position your fingers so they will not be inadvertently sliced by the fillet knife.

4. Place the knife on the fish at the point just beyond where the tail fin connects to the body. Cut the tail from the baitfish using the fillet knife.

5. Position the blade of the fillet knife across the baitfish just behind the gill slit. Cut straight across the fish from top to bottom to remove the head. Discard the tail and head.

Tips & Warnings

• Cut the bait once again if a smaller piece is required for fishing.

References

• Catfished: Cut Bait for Catfish