There are many types of bait available and most all of them can be successful when properly presented. Factors such as water clarity and the type of fish targeted need to be considered when selecting the right bait. Artificial baits are very popular because of their durability, and live baits will always be tempting to fish.

Spinnerbaits	Crankbaits	Topwater
Soft Plastics	Earthworms (Nightcrawlers)	Minnows and Shad

Topwater: Topwater baits like "stick baits" and "poppers" are generally retrieved with a "twitch" of the rod tip. This twitching action causes the lure to mimmick that of an injured baitfish. It takes some practice to get a jerkbait to create the ideal action for a strike, but fish know injured baitfish are an easy meal.