By Brian V., Last Updated 5/24/2024
Nothing beats live bait. Fish are used to eating it and live bait will move around in the water more naturally than anything else. We’ll show you three easy options to bait your fishing hook that will work for most bait fish without having to worry about the hook pulling out before a fish is on.
Option #1: Hook through the Head and Mouth
- Push the hook the head just in front of the bait’s eyes
- Keep pushing the hook down through the bottom of the bait’s mouth
Option #2: Hook Under the Dorsal Fin
- Find the bait’s dorsal fin
- Push the hook through the bait underneath the dorsal fin
- Remove any scales stuck to your hook
Option #3: Hook Above the Anal Fin
- Find the bottom rear fin of the bait
- Push the hook through the bait above the fin
- Remove any scales stuck to your hook
Need More Help?
West Marine is the perfect place to get ready for your next fishing trip. We offer free line spooling and locally assorted tackle in most of our stores to gear you up for what’s biting in your area. Plus, with plenty of anglers on our crew, we have the know-how you need to get ready. Find your store here.
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