ii2 PRACTICAL BAIT CASTING 



valuable, the fisherman will usually buy his minnows, 

 although it is a good plan to find out in advance 

 whether or not they will be obtainable. Sometimes 

 it will be necessary or desirable to catch them your- 

 self which is usually a simple problem. 



On large bodies of water without surface inlet or 

 outlet or on big streams minnows will usually be found 

 in sheltered spots and can be taken with a minnow 

 net. One that folds umbrella-fashion is very handy. 

 Bait it with bread or cracker crumbs when the min- 

 nows are near the surface, or fasten it to a long handle 

 with strong cord, cast it out, and bring in quickly 

 when the minnows are down deeper. Usually the 

 most common lake minnows are spot-tailed shiners and 

 they are good for both bass and pickerel. The outlets 

 or inlets of large lakes are good places to catch bait, 

 as the minnows have a habit of running in and out 

 of these places. 



Seining is the best way to catch minnows in small 

 streams, but be sure your seine complies with the law, 

 Some states limit the length and regulate the mesh of 

 minnow seines. Creek chubs and river chubs are two 

 of the very best minnows for bass. When they are 

 in shallow water the best way to get them is to wade, 

 lift your feet high as you move along, and drop each 

 foot heavily on the water. This scares the minnows 

 and they will seek refuge under a stone. Then drop- 

 ping another stone on the one Mr. Minnow is under 

 frill stun him. Pick him up at once because they are 

 ibugh and revive quickly. Minnow traps are useful 



