Are you a fan of bacon? Do you love the crispy crunch and savory taste of this breakfast staple?
Well, what if we told you that bacon could also be used as fishing bait? Yes, you read that right!
Bacon has been a well-kept secret among anglers for years, and it turns out that fish love it just as much as we do. But how effective is it really?
In this article, we’ll explore the world of bacon as fishing bait and give you tips on how to use it, which fish species are most attracted to it, and why it works so well.
So grab a cup of coffee and let’s dive in!
Is Bacon Good Fishing Bait?
The short answer is yes, bacon is good fishing bait. Fish are known to love meat products, and bacon is no exception. In fact, many anglers consider bacon to be one of the best baits for freshwater panfish.
The key to using bacon as bait is to select pieces with mostly fat and only a small portion of lean meat. Leave the bacon uncooked and fold it over twice on your hook. Some anglers swear by hickory smoked bacon as the best option.
But why does bacon work so well as fishing bait? One theory is that the scent of the bacon fat or grease attracts fish, who then become curious about the source of the smell. Additionally, the texture and movement of the bacon in the water can mimic the movements of natural prey, making it irresistible to hungry fish.
The Science Behind Bacon As Fishing Bait
The science behind using bacon as fishing bait is not well understood, but there are some theories as to why it works. One theory is that the high fat content of bacon releases oils and scents into the water, which can attract fish from a distance. Fish have a keen sense of smell and can detect even small amounts of scent in the water.
Another theory is that the texture and movement of bacon in the water can mimic the movements of natural prey, such as worms or insects. This can entice fish to strike and take the bait.
It’s important to note that not all fish species will be attracted to bacon as bait. However, many freshwater panfish, such as bluegill and crappie, are known to be particularly fond of bacon.
How To Use Bacon As Fishing Bait: Tips And Tricks
Now that you know bacon can be a successful bait for fishing, it’s important to learn how to use it effectively. Here are some tips and tricks to help you get the most out of your bacon bait:
1. Choose the right type of bacon: As mentioned earlier, hickory smoked bacon is a popular choice among anglers. However, you can experiment with different types of bacon to see what works best for you and the fish in your area.
2. Use mostly fat: Fish are attracted to the scent of the fat in bacon, so it’s important to choose pieces with mostly fat and only a small portion of lean meat. This will also help the bacon stay on your hook better.
3. Leave the bacon uncooked: Cooking the bacon will change its texture and scent, making it less appealing to fish. Leave it uncooked and fold it over twice on your hook for the best results.
4. Use bacon grease or lard: If you don’t want to use actual bacon as bait, you can use the grease or lard instead. Just smear it on your hook or bait and watch as the fish come biting.
5. Experiment with different techniques: Try different techniques for using bacon as bait, such as using it as a chum or adding it to other baits. You may find that certain techniques work better for different types of fish.
Which Fish Species Are Most Attracted To Bacon Bait?
While many species of fish are attracted to bacon bait, some are more likely to take a bite than others. Bluegills, catfish, and crappies are known to be particularly attracted to bacon due to the oil in the fat. The smelly odor of raw bacon also tends to attract bigger fish, making it a great option for targeting larger species.
In addition, some anglers have reported success using bacon as bait for carp, trout, and even bass. However, it’s important to note that using unconventional bait like bacon may not always be as effective as using traditional bait options.
Comparing Bacon To Other Common Fishing Baits
While bacon may be a popular choice for some anglers, it’s important to note that there are many other commonly used baits for fishing. Some of the most popular include worms, minnows, crickets, and lures.
Worms are a classic bait that have been used for centuries. They are readily available and easy to use, making them a great option for beginners. Worms can attract a wide variety of fish species, including bass, trout, and catfish.
Minnows are another popular bait that are often used for larger fish such as bass and pike. They can be purchased at bait shops or caught using a minnow trap. Live minnows are typically hooked through the lips or behind the dorsal fin.
Crickets are a common bait for panfish such as bluegill and crappie. They can be purchased at bait shops or caught in the wild. Crickets are typically hooked through the back or behind the head.
Lures are artificial baits that come in a variety of shapes and sizes. They can mimic the movements of live prey and come in many different colors and designs. Lures can be used to target specific fish species and can be effective in both freshwater and saltwater environments.
While all of these baits have their own unique advantages, bacon stands out as a particularly effective option for freshwater panfish. Its scent and texture make it an irresistible temptation for hungry fish, making it a go-to choice for many experienced anglers.
Preparing Bacon For Fishing: Dos And Don’ts
When it comes to preparing bacon for fishing, there are a few dos and don’ts to keep in mind. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your bacon bait:
DO choose raw bacon over cooked bacon. Raw bacon is softer and more pliable, making it easier to handle and attach to your hook.
DO select pieces of bacon with more fat than lean meat. The grease from the fat will help to attract fish to your bait.
DO experiment with different types of bacon. Some anglers swear by hickory smoked bacon, while others have had success with other varieties.
DO wrap and secure your bacon well in tinfoil before cooking it. This will help prevent it from falling apart in the coals.
DON’T use too much bacon at once. A small strip or chunk is all you need to attract fish.
DON’T use bacon as your only bait option. While it can be effective, using a variety of baits will increase your chances of catching fish.
By following these dos and don’ts, you can increase your chances of success when using bacon as fishing bait. Remember to always check local fishing regulations before using any type of bait, and happy fishing!
Bacon Bait Success Stories: Real-Life Experiences From Anglers
Many anglers have reported successful fishing trips using bacon as bait. One angler, who used a homemade 1/2-ounce buzz bait as well as an aptly named Gambler Bacon Rind, caught the majority of their catch on Old Hickory Lake. Another angler shared a recipe for catfish bait that includes mixing freshly cleaned fish guts with peanut butter, honey, and bacon grease, leaving it in the garage for five or six days, and then using it as bait. Although the mixture may bubble, it has been known to attract catfish.
Other anglers have shared their experiences with using unconventional baits, including bacon. One angler reported that they had caught a 4-foot sand shark using gummy fish from the candy aisle. Sour worms have also been known to be particularly appealing to fish due to their bright colors and shape, which mimics that of a real nightcrawler.
Despite some skepticism about the effectiveness of bacon as fishing bait, many anglers have found success with this unconventional choice. The versatility of bacon as bait has been attributed to its scent, texture, and movement in the water, which can mimic the movements of natural prey and attract curious fish.
