Worms and minnows remain staples for both freshwater and saltwater fishing, but classic artificials also prove their worth. For freshwater, jigs, spinners, crankbaits, and spoons have consistently caught fish. In the saltwater world, bucktail jigs, spoons, and topwater plugs have a long and successful history, attracting a wide range of species.

Tampa Bay and the adjacent Gulf of Mexico offer a rich and diverse fishery, attracting anglers of all skill levels. Success in these waters often hinges on the choice of bait, and live bait remains a consistently effective option for enticing a wide variety of game fish. This report outlines some of the most productive live baits for saltwater fishing in this region.

1. Whitebait (Scaled Sardines and Pilchards)

These small, silvery fish are a staple in the diet of many predatory fish in the area. Scaled sardines typically have a more rounded body, while pilchards are slightly more elongated. Why they work: Their abundance, natural forage appeal, and lively action on a hook make them irresistible to species like snook, redfish, trout, mackerel, and snapper. They can be fished live-lined, under a popping cork, or on a jig head.

2. Pinfish

Pinfish are small, hardy baitfish with a yellow or olive coloration and distinctive spines on their dorsal fin. Why they work: They are a favored food source for larger predators like grouper, snapper, and larger redfish. Their hardiness allows them to stay alive on a hook for a considerable time.

3. Threadfin Herring (Greenbacks)

These slender, iridescent baitfish are easily recognizable by the elongated, thread-like ray on their dorsal fin. Why they work: Their lively swimming action and flashing silver bodies are highly attractive to kingfish, Spanish mackerel, cobia, and other fast-moving pelagic species.

4. Live Shrimp

Live shrimp are a versatile bait available in various sizes. Why they work: Virtually every saltwater game fish will eat a shrimp. They are particularly effective for targeting redfish, trout, flounder, snook, and sheepshead. They can be fished under a popping cork, on a jig head, or simply free-lined.

5. Live Mullet

Mullet are robust, schooling fish with a greyish coloration. They come in various sizes, with finger mullet (smaller) and larger adult mullet both used as bait. Why they work: Larger predatory fish like snook, tarpon, sharks, and large redfish find mullet to be a substantial and appealing meal. They are often fished live-lined near structure or in areas where these larger predators congregate.

6. Live Crabs

Various types of small live crabs can be effective baits. Why they work: Sheepshead are particularly fond of crabs, but they can also attract black drum, permit, and even redfish. They are typically fished on the bottom near structure.

7. Live Sand Fleas (Mole Crabs)

These small, oval-shaped crustaceans are found burrowed in the sand along beaches. Why they work: Pompano are particularly attracted to sand fleas, making them a prime bait for surf fishing. They can also entice whiting and other bottom-feeding species.

8. Live Mud Minnows

Mud minnows are small, hardy fish with a dark brown or olive coloration. Why they work: They are a good all-around bait for various inshore species like redfish, flounder, and trout, especially in muddy or stained water conditions.

The choice of live bait can significantly impact fishing success in Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. By understanding the preferences of different game fish and the characteristics of various live baits, anglers can increase their chances of landing their target species. Availability of these baits may vary depending on the season and local bait shops. Observing what baitfish are naturally present in your fishing area can also provide valuable clues for selecting the most effective option.

Modern fishing offers diverse alternatives to traditional live baits. Anglers now use soft plastics, like scented worms and grubs, that mimic prey with realistic action. Options include Fish Bites Brand Baits, Fish Gum, and Fish Balls. Hard lures, such as crankbaits and jigs, attract fish with vibrant colors, vibrations, and movements. This section will feature some of the many choices available to anglers today.