Bait?? Carp, Sheepshead, etc...

[aanderud]

Anyone know why carp can't be used as bait? Page 10 of the regs specifically calls out carp and goldfish in addition to 'game fish' as illegal to use for bait. They make no mention of other rough fish in this section (bowfin, sheepshead, etc). Is the exclusion on carp just to stem the spread of carp to other lakes/streams/rivers where they aren't currently living? If so, why don't they take the same precaution with sheepshead? Plus, if it is meant to stop proliferation, why would pieces of dead carp be illegal?

Sheepshead are legal to use as cutbait or live bait, right? Since they're listed as a "rough fish" and not specifically called out as illegal like carp are, I would assume so. I caught a couple last night and used them in both live and cut bait configurations. Got no cats to show for it. I didn't stay out long after the rain came though, so I missed prime time. Who knows, maybe they bite best in the lightning/thunder. Has anyone had good luck using sheepshead as bait? Do you use them cut or live? I suppose live is best for flatties, but they didn't seem to excited to be hooked. He was barely swimming around, so I figured if he's just going to be lazy he might as well be dead and bleeding...

[Ralph Wiggum]

I think the carp ban is to stop any possible spread. Even if it is dead, there is a possbility that an angler would bring a live carp with to cut up, and thus have a chance of spreading it.

Sheepshead are naturally ocurring fish (carp are non-native), so I don't think they're worried about them spreading.

I have used sheepies for bait, but not for cats. I have heard they will work in a pinch, but there are much better options out there. I did quite well, thought, with cut sheepies for sturgeon bait.

[sparcebag]

I'm gonna try the sheepies for live bait alongside a bullie this year see what happens,I catch a ton of sheeps for cut bait just before I start cattin!So I'll be selective and try to save a few for flats.

[Big Cat Dad]

When I have used freshwater drum for cut bait, it's worked really well. One thing I like is the meat is really tough and stays on the hook well.

Does it work better than sucker or goldyeye? Probably not, but I haven't fished it side-by-side very often. If you are having trouble finding other fresh cut bait, I wouldn't hesitate using it.

[Ralph Wiggum]

Quote:

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One thing I like is the meat is really tough and stays on the hook well.

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Yes, I have found this to be true as well! Very nice!!!

[Scott K]

I think if carp could be used as bait, it would work well, since it so bloody. I dont see why you cant use it in the same water you catch it in, as long as you dont transport it to a different body of water.