Sardines are a popular and effective bait for a variety of fish, including tuna, bass, and sharks. They are relatively easy to catch, and there are a few different methods you can use.
Methods for Catching Sardines
1. Using a Cast Net
- What you'll need: A cast net, a bucket or cooler, and a pair of gloves.
- How to do it:
- Find a school of sardines. They are typically found near the surface of the water in areas with lots of baitfish.
- Throw the cast net over the school of sardines.
- Quickly pull the net up and secure the catch.
2. Using a Dip Net
- What you'll need: A dip net, a bucket or cooler, and a pair of gloves.
- How to do it:
- Find a school of sardines.
- Dip the net into the water and scoop up the sardines.
3. Using a Sabiki Rig
- What you'll need: A sabiki rig, fishing line, and a small hook.
- How to do it:
- Attach the sabiki rig to your fishing line.
- Cast the line into an area where sardines are known to congregate.
- Reel in the line slowly, allowing the sabiki rig to sink.
4. Using a Seine Net
- What you'll need: A seine net, a boat, and a few helpers.
- How to do it:
- Find a school of sardines.
- Use the boat to encircle the school of sardines with the seine net.
- Pull the net in to capture the sardines.
Tips for Catching Sardines
- Fish at dawn or dusk: Sardines are more active at these times.
- Look for signs of baitfish: Birds diving, schools of fish jumping, or churning water can all indicate the presence of sardines.
- Use a light: A light can attract sardines to the surface at night.
- Keep your sardines fresh: Store them in a cooler with ice or on a stringer in the water.
Storing Sardines
- Refrigerate: If you're not using the sardines right away, refrigerate them.
- Freeze: You can also freeze sardines for later use. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Remember to follow local fishing regulations and guidelines when catching sardines for bait.