Ask the store if they have any shrimp that they are going to throw out. I usually get all the shrimp I want for free. Just remember to do it a few days before you trip and you might hit the jackpot.

I use the store bought eatin shrimp 3.88 to 5.25 LB I soak in Vanilla extract you can find the play like extract or cheap stuff, I peal and put in plaastic closeable container youcan keep for 2 weeks and your hands dont stink after ya been fishin and the cats like it

I too ask for the old shrimp and freeze them for later use. Though, I dont peel the shrimp. A buddy told me he doesn't know why but not peeling the shell works. I tried this last fall at Briton Park with a circle hook and landed a 9lb cat.

I have caught blue cats on canned Spam too! Just open the can & cut it into 1inch chunks 7 bait the hook! it works!!!The best overall channel/bluecat bait I've had the best luck on is GHOST MINNOWS wormed on the hooks! the next best is fresh cut shad! I bait my trotlines with it & live perch & crawdads too! I've never had a lot of luck with shrimp, I guess because I keep on eating the damn bait!LOL!!!

I will go along wiht FRESH shrimp as well.

And I dip mine in my favorite catfish dip bait instead of vanilla.....for mr whiskers that is....not for me to eat.