Best way to keep cut bait???

[lswoody]

Caught some bluegill this weekend and cut them up into chunks. Then put them in a freezer container and then put water in it just enough to cover the bait. Then put it in the freezer. I know fresh cut bait is best but can't always get it. Is there a better way to keep cut bait?? Thanks!!!


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[mexicanthreat]

I personally believe it better to leave the fish whole and freeze it. then cut it up when you want to use it. No offense but putting it in water in a bowl might be a bad idea. By doing that you are soaking out all the oils and blood from the meat, and that is the most essential part of cut bait. Not to mention it takes longer to thaw out. Vacuum sealing fish as a whole is probably the best way. although a vacuum sealer may not always be on the top of the list when it comes to fishing gear. But it's worth it in the long run especially when spring time rolls around and shad are hard to find. other than that just freezing them as an untouched fish will keep all the scent properties in.

[Skyline1506]

yea leave them whole. just enough water to cover the fish and salt to help preserve them. that how i was always told for shad and skips anyway

[lswoody]

Thanks guys!!!!


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[rodpitt]

If you are not freezing the bait, I have had best luck with putting them in plastic bags, then putting them on ice. I have not done this with blue gill, but with shad, it keeps the slime on them, which is very important. I cut them right before putting them on hook.

Blue gill are easy to catch and keep alive. So with them I keep them alive until I put them on the hook. plenty of blood and fresh smell.

[cincycats]

Personally I wrap each one individually in shrink wrap put a few to small zip lock bag throw it in the deep freeze. When they thaw they still seem to be fresh and the blood is still red not the nasty brown.