Are you an avid fisherman or woman looking to reel in the big catch?
One of the most popular baits used in Florida and Louisiana is live shrimp. But with prices ranging from $16 to $25 a quart, is it worth the cost?
In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of using live shrimp as bait, as well as alternative options for those on a budget.
So grab your tackle box and let’s dive in!
How Much Does Live Shrimp Bait Cost?
As mentioned earlier, the cost of live shrimp bait can vary depending on location and availability. On average, one can expect to pay between $16 and $25 for a quart of live shrimp. However, prices can go as high as $25 or more for shrimp brought in from Florida.
While live shrimp is a popular choice among fishermen and women, it’s important to consider the cost before making a purchase. Is it worth spending that much money on bait? Let’s take a look at the pros and cons.
The Benefits Of Using Live Shrimp As Bait
There are several benefits of using live shrimp as bait when fishing in saltwater. Firstly, live shrimp is a natural and versatile bait that can attract a wide range of saltwater species such as redfish, tarpon, seatrout, bonefish, snook and many others. Fish are more likely to be attracted to natural prey and won’t be suspicious towards your bait. The natural movement and scent of live shrimp can often be more effective than artificial lures.
Secondly, live shrimp is high in protein and is readily available at most saltwater bait shops. This makes it a convenient and reliable option for anglers who want to catch a variety of saltwater species.
Thirdly, using live shrimp as bait can be a fun and rewarding experience for beginners who want to learn how to catch, hook, and keep the shrimp alive. With some practice, anglers can become skilled at fishing with live shrimp and catch fish like a pro.
Lastly, live shrimp can offer a unique and exciting challenge for experienced anglers who want to try something new. It requires skill and patience to keep the shrimp alive and hook them properly. The challenge of using live shrimp as bait can make the fishing experience more rewarding and satisfying.
The Drawbacks Of Using Live Shrimp As Bait
While live shrimp may be an effective bait for catching fish, there are some drawbacks to using it.
Firstly, live shrimp can be expensive, especially if you’re planning on using a lot of it. As mentioned earlier, the cost of live shrimp can range from $16 to $25 per quart, which can add up quickly if you’re planning on using it frequently.
Secondly, live shrimp is a perishable item and must be kept alive until it’s time to use it. This means that you’ll need to keep it in a live well or aerated bucket, which can be inconvenient and take up space on your boat.
Thirdly, using live shrimp as bait can attract unwanted attention from bait thieves such as pinfish and catfish. These small fish can easily steal the bait off your hook without you even noticing.
Lastly, live shrimp can produce a lot of trash fish such as pinfish, ladyfish, catfish, and stingrays. This can be frustrating for fishermen who are looking to catch specific types of fish.
Factors That Affect The Cost Of Live Shrimp Bait
There are several factors that contribute to the cost of live shrimp bait. One of the main factors is the supply and demand for the shrimp. If there is a high demand for live shrimp bait and a limited supply, prices will increase. This is often the case during peak fishing seasons or in areas where live shrimp is not readily available.
Another factor that affects the cost of live shrimp bait is the location where it is caught. Shrimp caught in certain areas may be more expensive due to higher transportation costs or because they are considered to be of higher quality. For example, shrimp brought in from Florida may be more expensive than those caught locally in Alabama due to transportation costs.
The size and quality of the shrimp can also impact the cost. Larger and higher quality shrimp may be more expensive than smaller or lower quality shrimp. Additionally, the method used to catch the shrimp can also affect the cost. Shrimp that are caught using more sustainable and environmentally friendly methods may be more expensive than those caught using less sustainable methods.
Finally, weather conditions and other environmental factors can also affect the cost of live shrimp bait. For example, if there is a storm or other adverse weather condition that affects the shrimp population, prices may increase due to a limited supply.
Alternatives To Live Shrimp Bait For Budget-Friendly Fishing
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option than live shrimp, there are several alternatives that can be just as effective. Here are a few options to consider:
1. Frozen Shrimp – Frozen shrimp can be a good alternative to live shrimp. It’s less expensive and can be stored in your freezer until you’re ready to use it. Make sure to thaw the shrimp properly and keep it on ice while fishing.
2. Cut Bait – Cut bait is simply pieces of fish that are used as bait. You can use any type of fish, but some popular options include mullet, menhaden, and sardines. Cut the fish into small pieces and use it on a hook.
3. Artificial Baits – Artificial baits are a great option if you want to save money on bait. They come in a variety of shapes and colors and can be just as effective as live bait. Popular options include soft plastic lures, spoons, and jigs.
4. Sand Fleas – Sand fleas are small crustaceans that can be found on the beach. They’re a popular bait for surf fishing and can be collected with a sand flea rake or by hand.
5. Bloodworms – Bloodworms are another popular bait for surf fishing. They can be purchased at bait shops or collected by digging in the sand at low tide.
While live shrimp is a great bait option, there are several alternatives that can be just as effective and budget-friendly. Consider trying one of these options on your next fishing trip to save some money on bait.
Tips For Making The Most Of Your Live Shrimp Bait Investment
Investing in live shrimp bait can be a great way to attract fish and increase your chances of a successful catch. However, it’s important to make the most of your investment to ensure that the bait stays alive and well for as long as possible. Here are three tips to help you get the most out of your live shrimp bait investment:
1. Use a ventilated bait bucket: A ventilated bait bucket that can float in the water is the most commonly used method for carrying live shrimp. However, many anglers make the mistake of overcrowding their bait bucket with more shrimp than it can handle. A normal size floating bait bucket can handle three to four dozen live shrimp. Battery operated air pumps or O-Tabs (oxygen tablets) are an alternative measure to keep shrimp alive and protect your investment during transportation and while fishing.
2. Keep the water cool: Live shrimp can become weak from lack of oxygen, warm temperatures, and rough handling during transportation. During the molting period, shrimp shed their shell and become very soft. In this weakened stage, many do not survive; those that do are not very energetic. Colder water has more dissolved oxygen than warm water, which keeps bait more lively. If you’re fishing in warm weather, consider adding an additive like “pogey croaker saver” or Instant Ocean to your water to help maintain a consistent temperature and salinity level.
3. Present the bait naturally: Presentation of the bait is extremely important to catch fish. Any type of live bait should appear as natural as possible in the water. For example, a medium-sized shrimp cannot carry the weight of a 4/0 hook. Light gauge wire hooks, size 1 or 2, and a monofilament leader up to 30 pounds is the preferred method for the shrimp to swim freely under their own power. The hook can be inserted in the head from side to side avoiding the dark spot, the brain, in the center of the head. They can also be hooked in the last joint of the tail.
By following these tips, you can make sure that your live shrimp bait investment stays alive and well for as long as possible, increasing your chances of catching that big fish you’ve been after.