I've received lots of requests for info on how I prepare cut bait for Crappie.
This should help.


Step 1, catch a drum, carp, bluegill or other trash fish.



Step 2: Scale the fish.




Step3: Filet the fish with the skin on. Cut into strips


Use on jig hooks like the photo. Stepping on the bait helps slow down the fall.
(not on carpet)





Keep bait in your cooler in bag. Freeze the excess for use later.

Be prepared to catch a lot of Bluegills at times. Bigger cut bait will usually catch bigger Crappie.

I'm betting a larger strip would work on the ditch pickles..sorta like the old Pork-O baits.

Probably would but they would tear up or sling off pretty easy.

Ernest can you try it with some perch?

I used a perch today. I don't think the fish cared. Fish is fish.

Great idea.... thanks for sharing

Nice Ernest!

Mister Ernest you need a salt life hat...That's an old salt water trick...I like it...just makin it happen...at least it's not minners.haha.

Very good idea...

By the way, those big perch are fine eating.

Good info, Like that scaling the fish and will try it next time out. Thanks

How long are the strips you cut?

Strips vary from 1.5" to 3". Don't try to be neat. The more ragged the bait the better. That's why I stomp on it often.

Just a thought. If you can't or don't want to catch the bait you can buy Tilapia fillets with the skin on at the store. They should work fine.