1. **Live Bait**: This is often the most effective choice.
- **Shiners**: These small minnows are irresistible to many game fish, including bass and pike.
- **Nightcrawlers**: Great for freshwater species, nightcrawlers work well for catfish and panfish.
- **Crickets**: Perfect for catching bluegill and other sunfish, especially in warmer waters.
2. **Artificial Lures**: These can mimic the movement of prey and can be very effective in summer conditions.
- **Topwater Lures**: Lures like poppers or frogs can create an exciting surface action early in the morning or late evening when fish are feeding near the surface.
- **Spinnerbaits**: These are versatile and can be used in various conditions; they work well in murky waters.
- **Swimbaits**: These imitate the swimming action of baitfish and can be very effective for larger predatory fish like bass and walleye.
3. **Cut Bait**: For species like catfish, cut bait can be a great option. Just use pieces of fish like shad or herring, which can attract larger cats lurking in deeper waters.
4. **Jigs**: These are excellent for targeting specific species like bass, especially when fished around structures like rocks or submerged trees.
- **Soft Plastic Jigs**: These can be very effective when rigged correctly and can imitate a variety of prey.
Remember to match your bait choice with the species you're targeting and the specific conditions of the water you're fishing in. Happy fishing!
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