How to Fish Using Water Dogs As Bait

Use waterdogs as bait to catch bass and other large fish.

Waterdogs, also known as mudpuppies, are tiger salamander larvae. They live in cold streams, rivers and other fresh waterways, hiding among rocks. Anglers prize them as bait for catching bass, catfish and other large fish varieties. In the wild, waterdogs feed on fish eggs. Fish will attack the waterdogs to protect their nests. This makes waterdogs an ideal bait because large fish will strike out at the waterdogs, making it easier for you to nab the fish.

Things You'll Need

• Worm hooks

Instructions

1. Grasp the waterdog firmly in your nondominant hand. They are extremely slippery, so it is easy to lose your grip.

2. Place your thumb under the waterdog's chin to subdue it. Hold your thumb there firmly.

3. Choose a worm hook that matches the waterdog's size. Use a 5/0 or larger hook for waterdog bait longer than 10 inches. This size bait is best used for trophy fish catches. Use a 3/0 hook for waterdogs measuring less than 8 inches, and a 4/0 hook for 8- to 10-inch long waterdogs.

4. Insert the hook through the waterdog's lower jaw and out of its nose. Avoid inserting it through the upper jaw because the hook could hit the brain, killing the waterdog.

5. Cast your line softly into the water. A hard cast will stun the waterdog, making it less active. A sluggish waterdog is less attractive to large fish.

6. Allow the waterdog to swim. It will most likely head for the bottom of the lake or stream. Wait about 10 seconds. If you don't have a bite, pull up your bait and recast it to another spot. Waiting longer could allow the waterdog to burrow under rocks.

7. Observe your line for sudden movement. That could indicate the waterdog is attempting to swim away from a bass. Gently tug the line to keep the waterdog moving forward. A bass is more likely to attack the waterdog if the bait is active.

Tips & Warnings

• Larger waterdogs thrash when cast into the water and die quicker, according to "In-Fisherman" magazine.

• Waterdogs will die if repeatedly pulled from the water and recast. Be judicious when deciding how often to recast the bait.

• Use a new waterdog if your bait has stopped swimming on its own. An inactive waterdog is not an attractive bait to large fish.

References

• In-Fisherman: Waterdogs, the Super Bait
• Waddell's Waterdogs: Waterdog Facts

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish