Keeping Minnows Alive

Minnows are a topnotch live bait but there are no shortcuts when it comes to keeping minnows alive. Keep the temperatures cool and the water oxygenated, or they'll die. An insulated minnow bucket is a good choice if you don't have a bait well on your boat. On particularly hot days put the bucket into a cooler with ice. It's a hassle but your minnows will last longer. Keep the air flow going by using a minnow bucket aerator. Pumping oxygen into the confined space with lots of minnows is crucial. Without the oxygenated water the minnows will quickly become listless and die. Battery powered portable aerators are available and work well but make sure you have a few extra batteries packed for your trip.