Live Clams: Premium Saltwater Bait

Everything You Need to Know About Using Live Clams for Bait

Why Choose Live Clams?

Beyond their incredible scent, live clams represent a natural food source in many marine environments. Fish are accustomed to feeding on clams, making them less wary and more likely to strike. The texture and taste of a fresh clam are also key attractants. Our clams are harvested to ensure maximum freshness and liveliness, giving you the edge you need.

Types of Clams Commonly Used for Bait

While various clam species exist, hard-shelled clams like Quahogs (which include littlenecks, cherrystones, and chowders depending on size) are most commonly used for bait due to their durability and strong scent. Surf clams are also popular, especially for larger baits or when targeting species known to feed on them. The key is a fresh, juicy clam that will hold up on the hook and disperse scent effectively.

Sourcing and Maintaining Quality

At Wholesale.Fishing, we pride ourselves on sourcing top-quality, fresh live clams. We understand that the effectiveness of bait hinges on its condition. Our clams are handled with care to ensure they arrive at your shop or on your boat in peak condition, lively and ready to attract fish.

Keeping Your Live Clams Fresh

• Store clams in a cool, damp environment – a refrigerator is ideal (around 35-40°F or 2-4°C).
• Place them in an open container or one with ventilation holes; do not seal them in an airtight bag or container.
• Cover them with a damp cloth or paper towel. This helps retain moisture without submerging them.
• Do not store them in standing fresh water or melted ice water, as this will kill them. If using ice, ensure there's drainage.
• Use as soon as possible for best results, typically within a few days of purchase if stored properly. Discard any clams that are open and do not close when tapped, or that have a foul odor.

How to Rig Live Clams for Bait

Proper rigging is crucial for presenting your clam bait naturally and ensuring good hooksets.

1. Shucking the Clam:
   • Carefully insert a clam knife (or a sturdy, dull-bladed knife) between the shells near the hinge or along the opening lip.
   • Twist the knife to pop the shell open. Slide the knife along the inside of one shell half to cut the adductor muscles. Repeat for the other shell half.
   • Be cautious to avoid cutting yourself. Some anglers prefer to slightly steam or microwave clams for a few seconds to make them open easier, but this can slightly diminish the fresh scent.
2. Hooking Techniques:
   • Whole Clam (Shucked): For larger fish, hook the entire soft body of the clam, passing the hook through the tougher foot or siphon area multiple times to secure it.
   • Clam Strips: Cut the shucked clam into strips. Hook the strip once or twice, ensuring the hook point is exposed. This is great for smaller fish or when you want a smaller bait profile.
   • Small Whole Clams (Shell On): For some species like Tautog or Sheepshead, a small, whole clam (often with the shell slightly cracked) can be very effective. This requires specialized rigging or very strong hooks.
3. Using Bait Thread: For softer clam parts or to secure larger pieces, using bait elastic thread can help keep the clam on the hook longer, especially during vigorous casting or in strong currents.

Common rigs like a simple fish-finder rig, a high-low rig, or a Carolina rig work very well with clam baits, allowing the scent to disperse near the bottom where many target species feed.

Seasonal Use

Clams can be an effective bait year-round, but they particularly shine in cooler waters when other baitfish might be less active. They are a staple for spring and fall striped bass runs, tautog fishing in the fall and winter, and for many bottom species throughout their respective seasons.