How to Use Shiners to Catch Lake Trout

Trout is one of the most delicious freshwater fish and is a target for many fishermen worldwide. One of the most popular and widely adapted ways for catching lake trout is using shiners as live bait. Using shiners with expertise allows hooking trout out of the water with minimal possible damage and effort. Shiners are, therefore, a mandatory component for any trout fishing trip.

Things You'll Need

  • Shiners
  • Bait bucket
  • Mesh sieve net (optional)
  • Hand gloves
  • Hook
  • Split shots
  • Large empty can
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Instructions

    • 1

      Get your bait bucket ready by filling it up with shiners purchased at a bait shop. Buy at least a dozen shiners for each person going fishing. Buy small sized shiners, about 3 to 3-1/2 inches long, as they are ideal for catching trout.

    • 2

      Consider how cold or windy the day of your trip is. If it's fairly cold, use a little mesh sieve net to get the shiner out of the bucket. If the temperature is mildly pleasant, use your hands. Wearing hand gloves is mandatory.

    • 3

      Clasp onto the shiner tightly and cautiously place the sharp edge of the hook well through the shiner's mouth. As shiners have a relatively small mouth and you must not damage it, take your time while doing this. Shove the hook through its mouth and push it up into its nose to make sure that it points upward. This way it will swim downward and stay hooked for a longer period of time.

    • 4

      Use two split shots to ensure that shiners remain deep in the water. This additional weight does not allow the shiner to float back upward and keeps it at a position where a trout can not only see it, but also attack it easily.