How To: Bait a fishing hook depending on your bait

Taking up fishing anytime soon? The first thing you'll need to learn is how to bait a hook. Different types of bait require different methods of getting them onto the hook. Follow these steps.

You Will Need:
• Worms
• Insects
• Minnows
• Cut bait
• 1 c. flour
• 1 c. yellow cornmeal
• 1 tsp. sugar
• 1 qt. water
• 1 c. molasses
• Fish hooks
• Thin wire
• A minnow bucket
• A pot

Step 1: Bait with worms
Cut a worm into pieces and push the point and barb of the hook into the end of each piece when using a small hook. On a large hook, run the hook lengthwise through the worm's body, covering the hook.

Step 2: Bait with insects
Tie an insect to the hook's shank with thin wire. Insects such as grasshoppers and crickets work best, and are most effective when they're alive.

Step 3: Bait with minnows
Hook a minnow through the upper and lower lips or through the back below the spine. This gives the appearance that the minnow is swimming naturally. Minnows are more effective if kept alive.

Step 4: Cut bait
If you're in an area with fish that are more attracted to scent, cut bait works better than live or whole bait. Cut fish, eels, or minnows, into chunks for still fishing, or strips for trolling.

Step 5: Make doughballs
Make doughballs by mixing flour, cornmeal, and sugar in a pot, and then adding enough water to create a doughy texture. Add more water and molasses to maintain a doughy consistency. Bring the mix to a boil; then cook for a few minutes. Let it cool and roll it into balls. Mold the balls around the hook, completely covering it.

Trivia: Carp will bite on almost any type of food baited on a hook – from hot dogs to marshmallows.