Worms and Maggots are the top 2 most popular baits in fishing. However, it can be quite a job preserving and maintaining them to become more efficient in attracting fish. We all know that freezing is one way to keep perishable goods. So, the question arises, can you freeze worms and maggots for fishing?
You can freeze Maggots for a maximum of two weeks. If you passed that time, there’s a possibility that they get invariably wrinkled and well past their best. Some worms don’t defrost thoroughly, while others can defrost just fine. Moreover, you have to make sure that you place worms and Maggots in a fridge with a useful moisture control feature.
When it comes to fishing, some types of live baits do not defrost thoroughly. It means that it may take some time before you can use it, or the bait may not regain its original form. When this event happens, their inside parts liquefy with dangling skin. Therefore, it is essential to pick the right type of worm because not all of them can survive freezing points.
Live Worms vs. Dead Worms: Which Bait is Better to Use?
Ask any angler, and he would say that the best bait comes from preparing it correctly. Once you know that you did the right thing, you will catch nearly anything in either freshwater or seawater. Most anglers still prefer worms or Maggots in catching fish because of their versatility and very practical. Plus, fish loves worms. However, the hard part is picking between dead or alive worms.
| DEAD WORMS | LIVE WORMS |
| Dead worms give off more flavor, which attracts the fish to bite on it. For many fish, it’s the odor that leads them to their prey. | Some anglers chop live worms with scissors because the smell of the blood can draw the fish to the bait. |
| Dead worms are suitable for those fish that hunts food by sensing vibrations in the water. | Live worms come in different types and more expensive compared to dead worms because fish prefer them. |
| You can try to experiment by mixing dead worms in salt and tuna oil for extra smelly flavors and taste. | Fish likes live worms because the wriggling effect attracts them a lot. |
Why Should You Use Worms as Your Bait for Catching Freshwater Fish?
Aside from being accessible and practical, worms are still more convenient and flexible to use compared to multitudes of fishing lures on the market. Nothing beats the old-fashioned live worms when you want to bait for freshwater fish. So, what are the reasons why most fishers prefer using them for catching freshwater fish? Let’s all find out.
- Almost Every Type of Fish Loves Worms. The wigging action and delicious scent of worms are their primary characteristics of why freshwater fish is into them. Either dead or alive, this bait will help you catch walleye, trout, bass, bluegill, and catfish.
- Worms Are Easy to Find and Best of All, FREE. You can find worms for fishing almost anywhere. A few shovels of dirt in your garden, and you can find them. They are even visible in some damp soil or on the street after a hard rain. The easiest way to find worms is to buy them in fishing tackle stores or bait shops. The best thing about this bait is that it is less expensive compared to other fishing lures and baits.
- Worms are Effective Baits Regardless of Their Size. Big or small, you can be sure that this bait will work excellent. Another great advantage of it is that you can even pinch them into smaller pieces, and you can still get that wiggling motion that most fish love.
- Worms have Natural Scent and Action. The natural smell and wiggling motion of worms contribute to catching freshwater fish. Plus, they can also breathe and survive in and out of the water for a few hours. You can also inject a worm blower to the worm to give it a more floating effect.
At What Temperature Should You Keep Your Worms?
Do you have any excess worms after a day of fishing? No problem. You can store them at home and use it for your next fishing trip. Just make sure to store them in between 32 to 37 degrees Fahrenheit. It will maintain and keep the life of your worms. Here are some ways to save them properly.
- METHOD 1: Keep Your Worms in the Fridge. This method is ideal for small amounts of worm that you will use within a month or if your next fishing trip would take weeks. Make sure to place them in a large worm box with soil or newspaper shreds. It is because a standard clear plastic container will allow light to pass through the soil, which may confuse worms. Don’t forget to feed your worms at least once a week with two to three tablespoons of used and damped coffee grounds. Powdered worm food would help, as well. When required, sprinkle a few drops of water into the container.
- METHOD 2: Store Worms in a Worm Box. This box should have at least one square foot of space for every 1,000 worms. Fill it with moist soil, but not wet. Then, make sure that there are holes in the sides and bottom of the box for draining of water. Finally, put the worm box in a moist and shady place. You may also bury it with about two inches above the ground.
What Temperature Should You Keep Maggots?
When it comes to Maggots, they can be in perfect shape for at least 6 to 8 days in 3 to 6 degrees Celsius closed containers. Some Maggots can even last for up to 2 weeks when you freeze them. However, take note that they may be a little “slimmed down” once you take them out again because they have sweated and lost some water in their bodies.
Maggots offer wriggling motions. You will also love that Maggots are widely available in most fishing stores and that they are cheap to buy. Moreover, fishers love using Maggots as their baits because they contain high protein. Plus, they are straightforward to put in the hook. If you’re fishing on rivers or farm ponds, Maggots are your best option.
At What Temperature Do Maggots Die?
Maggots will die if you store them in a full container. It’s because the temperature will start to rise, and they’ll eventually begin to die. Therefore, you have to keep Maggots in a container or box with 104 to 122 degrees Fahrenheit.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How Long Before Maggots Become Casters?
Usually, you have to buy or start with fresh and young Maggots. Then, allow an approximate of ten days for them to turn to casters. Don’t get deceived with fishing shops that might tell you that old Maggots turn better. They would, of course, change faster, but you’ll see that the casters look rubbery and shrunken.
What are Casters?
Casters are almost the same as the “pupa” stage of bluebottle flies that produce a large hook Maggot. Once Maggots become Casters, they form a hard and brown shell before metamorphosing in a fly. This process is the same when a caterpillar forms a chrysalis until it becomes a butterfly.
Are Dead Worms Good for Fishing?
Dead worms are also suitable for fishing because of the flavor that they produce underwater. This scent attracts the fish, which will help you hit that pot of gold. However, take note that not all fish use the same senses. Some use vibrations in the water to hunt for food, while others rely on the odor that leads them to their prey.
Can Worms Freeze and Come Back to Life?
As mentioned, you can freeze some worms, while others can’t. They can even survive through winter. Therefore, it’s essential to pick the right bait. Moreover, please use them right away than storing them for an extended period.
Final Words
Fishing is a game of patience. You can catch a big fish on certain days, while others don’t. Some people who don’t like fishing say that this sport or hobby is boring. However, it’s worth it whenever a big fish bite your bait. Worms and Maggots are your best option for catching almost any kind of fish. Yet, you have to understand how to use and store them properly.
It can be a tough job preserving and maintaining them, but you have to do it right if you want to catch a bigger fish. As an angler, you’ll always test your patience. Take note that some worms don’t defrost thoroughly, while others can defrost just fine. Meanwhile, Maggots can survive cold temperatures for at least two weeks.
In the question of what to pick between worms and Maggots – the answer is it depends on you. Dead or alive, both of these baits will help you catch fish for as long as you prepare them properly. They are versatile enough to improve your angling skills in either freshwater or seawater. Plus, a school of fish loves feeding on worms and Maggots.