Dead baits

[adkbrookie]

how do you all rig up for running dead baits on the bottom. I remember reading that some put a nail in the bait's body cavity and lose the sinkers. just wanted to know what different methods people use.

[MikeVT]

I usually hook a dead smelt right behind the head and put a small sinker right next to the hook.  This will keep the bait in a "natural" position.  I also make a small slit in the belly to let out any air in the bladder and to disperse more scent.  I've found lake trout to take most bait head first.  I don't lose too many with this set up.  I've yet to catch a brown trout with dead bait.

[GAMBELL]

Putting nails in dead baits is unethical.  I caught a pike last year that must have been caught earlier in the day.  When I cut it open, it had a smelt with a nail in it in it's stomach.  If I did not keep it, this fish may have died of been seriously injured.  I just squeeze the air out of them and add a couple split shot 1 1/2' above them.