1. **Live Bait**:
- **Worms**: Nightcrawlers and red wigglers are excellent for attracting a variety of freshwater species. They are particularly effective for species like catfish, bass, and panfish.
- **Minnows**: Small live minnows are great for catching larger predatory fish such as pike and bass. They mimic the natural prey in the river.
- **Crayfish**: These are particularly effective in rivers with rocky bottoms and can attract species like smallmouth bass.
2. **Artificial Baits**:
- **Soft Plastics**: Worms, grubs, and creature baits can be very effective. They can be rigged in various ways (Texas rig, Carolina rig) to suit the conditions.
- **Spinnerbaits**: These are great for covering water quickly and can be very effective in murky conditions. They work well for bass and pike.
- **Crankbaits**: These mimic the movement of injured fish and can be effective for species like trout and bass. Choose the right depth and color based on the water conditions.
3. **Prepared Baits**:
- **Dough Balls**: These can be made from bread or commercial products and are effective for catfish and carp.
- **Cheese Baits**: Particularly effective for catfish, these baits can be made at home or purchased commercially.
4. **Cut Bait**:
- For species like catfish, using cut pieces of fish (like shad or herring) can be very effective, especially in warmer months when fish are more active.
When selecting your bait, consider the species you are targeting, the time of year, and the specific conditions of the river. Experimenting with different baits can also help you discover what works best in your local waters. Happy fishing!
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