Soft bait

What is Soft Bait?

A soft bait is a popular type of fishing lure used to attract various species of fish. Made predominantly from soft, pliable materials like rubber or soft plastic, these lures accurately mimic the texture and even the taste of natural prey. Soft baits come in various forms like worms, lizards, and fish.

Why Use Soft Bait?

The main appeal of a soft bait lies in its realistic feel. When a fish bites into a soft bait, the texture is similar to that of their natural food. This encourages the fish to hold onto the bait longer, increasing the angler's chances of setting the hook properly. Additionally, some soft baits are scented or flavoured to further entice the fish into biting.

Types of Soft Bait

There are several types of soft bait designed to simulate different prey. Worm-like soft baits are common for species like bass and walleye. Other styles simulate small fish (called swimbaits), grubs, or even crustaceans. Choices depend on the type of fish you are targeting and their known preferences for food.

How to Use Soft Bait

Using a soft bait involves rigging it onto a hook or a jig head. The specific method largely depends on the type of soft bait and the style of fishing. Popular techniques include the Carolina rig, the Texas rig, or dropping it through a hole in the ice when ice fishing.

Soft Bait in Camping and Fishing Trips

For camping trips that involve fishing, having a variety of soft bait in your tackle box is advantageous. They're lightweight and easy to carry, making them perfect for lightweight camping. Moreover, with a mix of soft baits on hand, you can adapt on-the-spot to different fish species in the camping area's nearby waters.