Introduction
Catfishing is a popular pastime for many anglers, and one of the most effective baits for attracting these bottom-dwelling fish is stinkbait. As the name suggests, stinkbait (also known as dip bait) has a strong odor that catfish find irresistible. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the process of making your own homemade catfish stinkbait.
Why Stinkbait?
Catfish have an extraordinary sense of smell, which they use to locate food in murky waters. Stinkbait capitalizes on this by emitting a strong odor that catfish can detect from a distance. While there are many commercial stinkbaits available, making your own allows you to experiment with different ingredients and scents.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make your own catfish stinkbait:
- 1 lb of cheese (the stinkier, the better)
- 1/2 lb of raw chicken livers
- 1/2 lb of minced garlic
- 1 can of sardines in oil
- 1/4 cup of anise extract (optional)
Equipment
- Blender or food processor (Don’t use your wives, ask me how I know)
- Airtight container for storage
- Gloves (to keep the smell off your hands. This is also wife suggested – and good to keep on the boat!)
Procedure
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Blend the Ingredients: Place the cheese, chicken livers, minced garlic, and sardines (along with the oil they’re packed in) into your blender or food processor. Blend until you have a thick, consistent paste. If you’re using anise extract, add it now.
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Let it Ferment: Transfer the mixture to your airtight container and let it sit in a cool, dark place for a week. This will allow the ingredients to ferment and the smell to intensify.
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Check the Consistency: After a week, check the consistency of your stinkbait. It should be thick enough to stick to your hook but not so thick that it’s difficult to work with. If it’s too thin, you can add some cotton balls to thicken it up. If it’s too thick, add a bit more oil from the sardines.
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Store Properly: Once you’re happy with the consistency, store your stinkbait in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it. Remember to keep it in an airtight container to prevent the smell from permeating your fridge.
Conclusion
Making your own catfish stinkbait is a fun and rewarding process. Not only does it allow you to customize your bait to your liking, but it can also be a cost-effective alternative to store-bought options. So the next time you’re planning a catfishing trip, consider making your own stinkbait. Your nose might not thank you, but the catfish surely will!
Dont forget a few handy things for when you take it out!
50 Gerry’s Tackle 2X Strength Bronze Dough Bait Treble Hooks Size 2
Eagle Claw Catfish DIP Tube RIG
Happy fishing!