Using the right bait helps you catch more fish. Keep reading to learn which baits are best for different fish!

Topwater Baits

Topwater baits are used for bass. They should be used in fall. The bass love them, and it is fun to see them explode on the top of the water. These lures might include frogs and mice.

Crank Baits

Crank baits are my favorite type of bait they are so easy to use. There are many different crankbaits. They are used to catch bass crappie and even catfish. Here is how you use a crank bait. You cast it out reel it back in over and over until you catch something.

Spinner Baits

Spinner baits are used for bass fishing and crappie fishing. They have a little blade on them that vibrates when you reel them. The vibrating attracts attention. The fish will get curious and bite the bait. If you do get a bite, it is most likely a largemouth bass.

Now I hope you catch some good bass on these baits, so good luck and good fishing!

There are several common species you can expect to catch in Kentucky. They are in every lake and are easy to catch.

Bluegill

The most common species you will ever catch is Bluegill. They are fun to catch, and I would recommend them if you have just started fishing. The best and easiest way is to use a bobber, hook, sinker, and red worms. Try to find a fins lake or state park near you.

Crappie

Another fun fish to catch is the Crappie. This fish is similar to Bluegill but is a little harder to catch they tend to be caught on a bait called a crank bait. You can look this up online. 

Smallmouth and Largemouth Bass

I hope you are ready to learn about bass. There is so much to learn! These two species are very common at Lake Cumberland and all the lakes in Kentucky. They tend to be caught near wood and metal. They most of the time eat fish and frogs. Look these baits up if you don’t know what they are. Crank baits, spinner baits, swim baits, top water baits, and more are used to catch these fish, but these are the basics. Kentucky is known for trophy bass, so catch a big one!

I hope you find a good day to go fishing. Have fun!                            

The invasive species of Kentucky cause trouble for other fish, mussels , and aquatic plants. These three species — Asian Carp, Zebra mussels, and Hydrilla — are taking over.

The first invasive species is the Asian Carp. There are three species: Bighead, Silver and Grass. One couple can produce over 1,000,000 eggs! Silver carp can even jump. They are overpopulated.

The second invasive species is the Zebra mussel. These mussels can attach themselves to solid objects. They destroy freshwater mussels. They are long with a zebra like pattern.

The third invasive species is Hydrilla. The Hydrilla chokes down fish and overpopulates. It is a plant and is hard to fish and boat in.

All three species live in the Ohio River. They all cause trouble for other fish and plants. They were all brought by humans. I hope you have enjoyed this information. To learn more, contact the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife.