It seems that although shiners are more frisky and erratic, they die far too quickly and creek chubs are much heartier. Additionally, the shiners they sell at most bait shops are not even native to most creeks/rivers.
Dark brown minnows seem to produce the best for me, specifically chubs, stone rollers and daces. What about you?
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by Uncle-Buckwild
Creek Chubs are an excellent Smallmouth bait, including Redtail Chubs.
If you can find them, Madtoms (or Willow Cats) are incredible for both Smallmouth and Walleye (very expensive to buy though)!
In addition to minnows, leeches are a fantastic live bait choice for Smallmouths!
I only fish artificial lures... that said, I always have a jerkbait tied on and whopper plopper 75 can be deadly!
Fatheads or mud minnows. Small suckers are excellent bait, especially if you are a river fisherman.
I never use live bait for Smallies , can cause too much damage !
Whatever you can net, trap , or hook and catch on line & hook from the water you intend to catch your prey in usually will be best. Check with your local DNR, Fisheries authorities, to ensure you’re in compliance with the law. If I must use bait shop baits, I prefer golden shiners because they are prevalent in my locality and much more hardy in the bucket and much longer lasting in the pond/lake/stream/creek particularly when water temperatures are on the high side. Good Luck…..
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