How to Make Minnows Last

Unfortunately for the minnow, its shiny scales and small size makes it an excellent lure for larger fish. When using minnows as bait, it is best to use live specimens to attract other fish. Until you're ready to cast your line, you can keep your minnows healthy by regulating the oxygen and temperature of their container.

Things You'll Need

  • Bucket
  • Portable aerator
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Instructions

    • 1

      Pour room temperature water into a bucket. When possible, use fresh lake water. If you use tap water, filter it first to remove traces of chlorine.

    • 2

      Insert the aerator's tube into the bucket and turn on the aerator. This will circulate enough oxygen to keep the minnows healthy.

    • 3

      Purchase healthy minnows from your local tackle shop. Look for minnows with vivid colors, a lack of physical damage and a tendency to stay in a school with the others. Healthy minnows will last the longest.

    • 4

      Add the minnows to the water.

    • 5

      Feed the minnows with fish flakes or plant material. Plant material comes with the extra benefit of providing shade for the minnows.

    • 6

      Replace the water in the bucket with fresh water as necessary.