Live Eels: Premier Big Bait for Trophy Fish

Mastering the Art of Fishing with Live Eels

Why Live Eels are a Game Changer

Live eels trigger a primal predatory response in game fish. Their scent, combined with their distinct swimming pattern, makes them stand out from other baits. They are a substantial meal, often attracting larger, more cautious fish. Particularly effective during night fishing expeditions, their dark silhouette and constant motion make them an easy target for nocturnal hunters.

Common Bait Eels: The American Eel

The American Eel (*Anguilla rostrata*) is the primary species used for live bait in many North American fisheries. These catadromous fish (living in freshwater but spawning in the ocean) are naturally tough and possess the qualities that make them ideal bait. When selecting bait eels, look for lively, uninjured specimens within the size range appropriate for your target species.

Sourcing and Maintaining Peak Condition

We are committed to providing exceptionally lively, wild-caught eels. Proper handling from catch to customer ensures that our eels are vigorous and ready to perform. Their natural hardiness means they travel well and can be kept effectively with minimal care.

Keeping Your Live Eels Healthy & Contained

• Store eels in a cool, damp environment. A dedicated eel bucket or a cooler with a secure lid is essential, as eels are master escape artists.
• Place a damp towel or burlap sack in the container. Eels can absorb oxygen through their skin as long as they remain moist. Minimal water is needed; too much can actually drown them if not aerated.
• A small amount of ice (in a sealed bag to prevent freshwater melt from direct contact) can help keep them cool in warmer weather.
• Handle eels with a dry rag, newspaper, or sand on your hands to get a better grip on their notoriously slimy bodies. Some anglers use specialized eel tongs.

Effective Rigging Techniques for Live Eels

1. Lip Hooking: The most common method for a natural presentation. Insert the hook from under the lower jaw and out through the top lip or nostril area. This allows the eel to swim freely and is ideal for casting, drifting, or slow trolling. Use a sturdy circle hook or J-hook.
2. Tail Hooking: Hooking the eel near the tail can encourage it to swim away from the angler or boat, which can be useful in certain situations. However, it may impede the eel's natural swimming action somewhat.
3. Bridling: For larger eels or a more stealthy presentation, bridling with a bait needle and rigging floss allows the hook to be positioned externally, offering a better hook-up ratio with some species.
4. Common Rigs:
   • Fish-Finder (Slip-Sinker) Rig: Excellent for casting from shore or boat when fishing near the bottom. Allows the eel to swim somewhat freely.
   • Three-Way Swivel Rig: Effective for drifting or fishing in current, keeping the eel off the bottom at a set depth.
   • Free-Lining: No weight is used, allowing the eel maximum freedom to swim naturally. Best in calmer waters or when fish are surface feeding.

The key is to allow the eel to present as naturally as possible. Avoid overly heavy leaders or sinkers unless conditions demand them.

When and Where to Fish Live Eels

Live eels are productive from spring through fall, particularly during warmer months when large predatory fish are actively feeding. They are legendary for night fishing, especially for striped bass along coastlines, inlets, and around structure. Low-light periods like dawn and dusk are also prime times. Don't underestimate their effectiveness during the day, especially in deeper water or murky conditions.