Salted Minnows

[MrBig]

I would like to bring "salted" minnows to Canada this year. Can anyone give me tips on what minnows to buy, how to prepare/store them, and how long they will keep?

[Guest]

I have been bringing salted minnow to Canada for many years and they work very well. I always buy small sucker minnows. They shrink down in size when salted and the heads stay firmer than fatheads. To salt them I use ice cream buckets and pickling salt. I start with a layer of salt about 1" thick, than put a double layer of minnows, then 1" of salt all the way to the top of the bucket, end with a layer of salt. You can do this up to a week before your trip. Twice a day you need to drain the " juice " off of the minnows after they have been salted. Always keep them refridgerated. When it is time for the trip, try and keep them refrigerated as long as possible and keep them out of the sun. I have found that taking a smaller container out in the boat helps to keep the majority of them preserved in shade or frigerator back at the cabin. Usually they will last a week if you keep them out of the sun. Good luck!!

[This message has been edited by Paul (edited 07-27-2000).]

[MrBig]

Thanks for all the detailed info. I'll give it a try!