How to Care for Lake Minnows

Minnows are hardy, simple fish that are kept for a wide range of purposes. People keep lake minnows to use as bait or as food for larger fish, reptiles and amphibians. Others keep lake minnows as pets in aquariums or ponds. Regardless of your reasoning, follow a couple straightforward guidelines to raise healthy lake minnows.

Things You'll Need

  • Pond/Aquarium
  • Fresh water
  • Pump/Filter
  • Thermometer
  • Flake food
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Instructions

    • 1

      Set up a separate environment for minnows. Even if you're using them as feeder fish, keep minnows separate until you use them. Larger fish will eat them if given the chance. Set minnows up in a fish aquarium or outdoor pond, with fresh water and a pump and filter system that's adequate for your water capacity. Designate a gallon of water per inch of fish.

    • 2

      Feed your minnows once a day with a standard flak fish food. Follow the directions on the package in regard to amount and do not over feed. Fish should be able to finish all of the food you throw to them.

    • 3

      Monitor water cleanliness and temperature. Minnows require temperatures of 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit, and all fish do best with clean water. Change out the water in the minnow tank or pond once a week by siphoning out 10 percent of the water and replacing it with fresh water.