As I was catfishing the other day I was trying to figure out something that would work better than sponges for dip baits. Requirements are:
1. Porous
2. Inexpensive
3. Readily available
4. Easy to use with hooks
5. Biodegradable
6. Fairly tough

Then it hit me....Pork Rinds!
They work fine for about 15 minutes and then they get soggy. I haven't checked yet, but I'm willing to bet they even float the bait a few inches off of the bottom. My jeenyuz evin surprizes me sometimes Try 'em and let me know how they worked out.
regards,
Jay Gentry
Shotgunworld.com