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Ice Fishing Tips -Check your local regulations! => Ice Fishing Live Baits and Plastics => Topic started by: DasRottweiler on Sep 19, 2009, 08:05 AM

Title: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Sep 19, 2009, 08:05 AM
Had a field day on the goldens earlier this summer-pulling dozens whenever I threw my traps in. Now things have slowed to a crawl, I`ve got a dozen lil ones and about 2 dozen mediums in the tank. . Been catchin so many lil ones , I`ve been letting em go.  I have been concentrating on finding new places, my wife says those minnows ain`t free, ya burnt $50 gas lookin 4 em!
Not much luck there, plenty of fathead minnows or bridle shiners,not sure  ,either of which ya can`t use in NH. I have a bunch of creekchubs in the 6"-12" range for pike/lunkah bait. All caught rodnreel in the stream/river on my property.
I have a 4 acre pond on the property also, which is strange , in that I am striking out trappin in it, even thou I have seen large schools of shiners working the surface late afternoons, early evening. d**n commorant has no problem catchin em, seen em eat a few biggies around 7-8". His days are numbered.   Pond drops off rapidly into 40 FOW with a sand bottom. 6 feet off the shore it`s 8ft deep. Dangerous place for dogs /kids. Close to impossible to get out ifya fall in. Sand just keeps giving way. Hardly any weeds, no pads ,reeds, cattails etc, just sum bottom growth of tangleweeds about a foot off the bottom. I have thrown multiple traps out at multiple depths, breaded/chum areas, even floated a trap 6 feet down . Still nuttin.  I hope to drop traps thru the ice and restock the bait tank mid/late season. Any tips/ideas on how to extract these bits of silver n gold would be greatly appreciated! TY ROTT
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Sep 20, 2009, 01:07 PM
Yesterday my wife and I took a walk down the pond and saw huge schools of minnows/shiners running back and forth along the shoreline. I threw two traps in and let em sit till this morning when I went out to check 3 other traps I had out in a neighboring town. I stopped at our pond and could still see the minnows cruising the shoreline, many too small for use as bait. But there were sum bigger ones cruising with them. I pulled one trap and was happy to find a dozen medium shiners .The second was empty ,even thou it was only 10 or 12 feet from the first. Perhaps when they run the shoreline at this time of the year , they are easier to catch. Lets hope the luck continues . Went off to check the other 3 traps- Two were empty, cept a lone monster crayfish. The last one had a 2foot eel , which was eating everything else in the trap, some crayfish , buncha bullfrogtadpoles and a big 7" golden shiner which the eel had killed and was starting to eat. I rebaited and threw 2 traps in this pond , hoping for a buncha big goldens! Seems like the bullfrog tadpoles and giant goldens go hand in hand. I am also noticing that I am catching more predators that follow the bait into the trap for a easy meal. Eels, and pickeral mostly. Could be the onset of cooler weather! Yahooo!
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: beeverfishing on Sep 20, 2009, 01:35 PM
Had a field day on the goldens earlier this summer-pulling dozens whenever I threw my traps in. Now things have slowed to a crawl, I`ve got 5 dozen lil ones and about 4 dozen mediums in the tank. Dats all so far. Been catchin so many lil ones , I`ve been letting em go. I think I may have beat up my goldie spots and done sum damage? I have left these couple spots alone and will hit em again just b4 ice . I have been concentrating on finding new places, my wife says those minnows ain`t free, ya burnt $50 gas lookin 4 em!Not much luck there, plenty of fathead minnows , which ya can`t use in NH. I have about 50 creekchubs in the 6"-12" range for pike/lunkah bait. All caught rodnreel in the stream/river on my property.
I have a 4 acre pond on the property also, which is strange , in that I am striking out trappin in it, even thou I have seen large schools of shiners working the surface late afternoons, early evening. d**n commorant has no problem catchin em, seen em eat a few biggies around 7-8". His days are numbered.  Pond  is in a SandPit which has been closed for years. Pond drops off rapidly into 40 FOW with a sand bottom. 6 feet off the shore it`s 8ft deep. Dangerous place for dogs /kids. Close to impossible to get out ifya fall in. Sand just keeps giving way. Hardly any weeds, no pads ,reeds, cattails etc, just sum bottom growth of tangleweeds about a foot off the bottom. I have thrown multiple traps out at multiple depths, breaded/chum areas, even floated a trap 6 feet down . Still nuttin. I netted a bunch of em one day when they cruised too close to the shore, but they pretty much act like open water schoolin fish and stay away from the shoreline. I hope to drop traps thru the ice and restock the bait tank mid/late season. Any tips/ideas on how to extract these bits of silver n gold would be greatly appreciated! TY ROTT
PS: How is everyone else doing , filling the baittanks/trappin??

Yeah, nothing is ever truly free, Alway's a price, But I can think of much worse ways to spend it..
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: 1MOFISH on Sep 20, 2009, 07:25 PM
took the guppies and mama pesce down to the crick loaded with chubs and suckerz :o set 5 traps while we seined it took a few minutes for the cryin to start :'( no not me well later lol ater 30 minutes all the guppies were cryin im wet the rocks are slippery the algae stinks i want to squeeze the minnows :o will the crab bite me etc etc etc :-[ i tend to ignore them i mean compartmentalize  ::) all in all we caught alot my problem tub still to warm to support large qty of fish will a fan cool down the water more rapidly or is it the ambient temps that matter    mo
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Sep 20, 2009, 07:36 PM
 Try freezing gallon jugs and tossing em in like 5 times a day? Chubs keep well even in warm (60-70 degree)water.   Let us know how the traps do! Are they sucka traps? I have no idea where to trap suckers or I would. I`m always looking for new places , but so far the only ones producing are on my property! Small to medium shiners and creekchubs. If yer trappin up suckas ,could you post a pic of yer trap. Maybe next offseason I`ll take up sucka chasin. I have too many projects going this offseason and hardwater is gettin closer. I built 5 longer rods for walkin and jiggin outta the shack, made a buncha pannie glo-jigs, relined all of my HT Predator traps, made up 12 leaders, 4 feet of Trilene XT 10lb test with a 2 foot leader of PowerPro Green 20lb snelled to a 2/0 Gamkatsu Octopus hook and countless other menial tasks , trying to bide my time till it`s magic time again and we can walk on water.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: 1MOFISH on Sep 21, 2009, 10:05 AM
i use a standard minnow trap. bait trap with a can o cat food with small hole poked in it i trap a small run off crick with the maximun legal opening in the trap 1" i wade creek to find deep holes 1 to 2 feet :o you can see them so you can rule out unproductive holes i set traps like a fur trapper then seine rest of crick for an hour go back and lift traps out one trick i seine the hole the traps are in before pickin them up go back next day and do it again  thankx for the ice tip will do it mo
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: 1MOFISH on Sep 21, 2009, 10:53 AM
Here are some pictures of my 'guppies' and my bait-catching program:
(http://www.google.com/images?q=tbn:44wjdQq0i6ZA6M::cvcl.mit.edu/hybrid/cat2.jpg&h=94&w=106&usg=__-ZgF2M0F3Z7qza7z2hdKLannduI=)
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: 1MOFISH on Sep 21, 2009, 11:17 AM
Here's a picture of the 'guppies' and my bait-catching program, volume two :)

(http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h179/Morgano5/100_3674.jpg)


(http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h179/Morgano5/100_3675.jpg)
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Sep 21, 2009, 12:50 PM
Do you catch chubs with the catfood or suckas? I use drydawg food in mesh bags in my traps for minnows. I have been unable to get the chubs in the stream/river next to the house to go in a trap, me and my boys have been catchin em rod n reel with a berkely maggot on our ice rods.
I mostly trap ponds, ifya try to seine em ya would disappear and never be heard from again! I`ll have to try seining the stream/river for suckas, I havent seen anything but creekchubs in the stream yet thou. Should I try the catfood can thing in the stream? I struck out with the dogfood. Thanx for the pics ,looks like ya gutta couple of good helpers there! I can`t get my 2 boys to help with anything , but they are 17-19 now <so it`s typical!

Here are a few pics of the tank/bait so far:

Baitshack:
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/DasRottweiler/Baitshack-1.jpg)

TopTank-CreekChubs:
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/DasRottweiler/TheLuvshack1.jpg)

BottomTank-Goldens and Common Shiners:
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/DasRottweiler/TheLuvshack4.jpg)

BaitTanks:
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/DasRottweiler/TheLuvshack-1.jpg)

Trap on Brutha...Trap on....
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: 1MOFISH on Sep 22, 2009, 12:27 AM
I have a lot of helpers, mama pesce (my wife), who is on the forum, a member of shanty.  Mofish Jr, who is a member of ice shanty, my son, who is 30.  My four daughters, (two stepdaughters, two daughters) and a son.  It takes a lot of bait to get this crew going fishing, that's why it necessitated having the 300 gallon tank, which because I'm a commercial truck driver, I was able to obtain it for free.  (don't cry, I wish I could get you one two!) The run-off creeks that I usually trap contain chubs, suckers, zace, horned dace, szulpins. Wish I could trap the ponds around our house!  As of this date, I've never caught anything in a trap in a lake, most of the time your traps will get stolen, we're in metro-Pittsburgh with approximately 2 million beady eyes looking at your traps.  Most of the time I trap while watching them.  Had numerous traps stolen when left overnite.  Was truly amazed to find out that I could get the most minnows in the first hour, leaving them overnite, (they are smart, I watched them go in and out of the trap), you usually end up with a trap full of giant bait because they can't get back out.  Yes, the cat food does work for every species, but you could have phenomenal luck using cheese, the only problem, it soils the water a ton.  that's why I use the the cat food, just for scent, so I don't soil my water. Where do you live? It could determine the species of bait available to you.
MO
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Sep 22, 2009, 09:40 AM
  Was truly amazed to find out that I could get the most minnows in the first hour, leaving them overnite, (they are smart, I watched them go in and out of the trap), you usually end up with a trap full of giant bait because they can't get back out.  Yes, the cat food does work for every species, but you could have phenomenal luck using cheese, the only problem, it soils the water a ton.  that's why I use the the cat food, just for scent, so I don't soil my water. Where do you live? It could determine the species of bait available to you.
MO

Mo , I live in southeastern NH.  I had always thought that many minnows would swim into trap, eat bait , and then swim out. Plenty of empty mesh bags (i put the dawgfood in em) to support that theory. I am mostly looking for large and xtra large bait. Sum of the rodnreel caught creekchubs I have in the tank approach 11-12". I have been lucky ,in that I have lost no traps to punks/thieves yet.  I struck out when I checked my traps in neighboring town today , so I snatched em up and beat feet for home. I tossed em in my pond , where I can keep an eye on em till I move em to thier weekend spots. Got a few questions about the seining process. Do you leave the seine in one place , and then make a ruckus upstream while heading downstream towards the net?
I`m gonna try it in the river/stream and see if there are suckers! A simple explanation would be cool. TY ROTT
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: 1MOFISH on Sep 22, 2009, 10:22 AM
i would trap anywhere where the water is slack,out of the current,suckers are bottom feeders so you need to be there.as to seining yes both ways work i walk till i find a riffle or pinch point hold seine till the minnows run back down strean into seine lift and dump also the drivin them to you works need 2 people,does pond have a creek flowin in it thats a good spot plus up stream in any deep holes.also your area is prime for chubs find a cool feeeder crick hot spot   good luck    mo
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Sep 22, 2009, 06:54 PM
I`ll give it a shot, the seining, and yer right , plenty of chubs rite next to the house about 30 yards! Hoping there are suckers in there too. My pond is starting to produce abit. Nice healthy common shiners, pond is real clean.
Today`s haul -not alot but nice healthy critters ,after all it`s walkin distance from the front door!
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/DasRottweiler/PrivateStock2.jpg)
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: 1MOFISH on Sep 23, 2009, 01:06 PM
that is some nice bait closer to home the better       mo
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Sep 23, 2009, 01:47 PM
Yup ,right out the front door! My 2 golden Shiner spots are 30 minutes one way! Caught this 6" Shiner in the pond and these 2 creekchubs with rodnreel while I moved a trap over to the river today. Tossed a can o catfood in there , per yer instructions. Come on suckas!

Shiner:
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/DasRottweiler/PrivateStockXLG.jpg)
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: 1MOFISH on Sep 24, 2009, 10:18 AM
the shad and river shiners are thick in the big river now has anyone caught these and kept them alive in a bait tank could use the umbrella seine to trap them thankx   mo
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Sep 24, 2009, 11:09 AM
the shad and river shiners are thick in the big river now has anyone caught these and kept them alive in a bait tank could use the umbrella seine to trap them thankx   mo
Shad are fragile baitfish, hard to keep in the bait tank. Most guides who use em for softwater bait, net up what they need for the day and release the rest. River shiners , I assume , would be a better target for your efforts, as they should keep in the tank better.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Sep 26, 2009, 11:35 AM
I think I may have started trappin up too early! I started loosing about 6 a day of the shiners , mostly smalls and small/med. They are getting face rot and tail rot. I figured ammonia was high due to the large number of em in the two tanks. Tanks are a 35 and a 55gal, I figure I got about 70 gallons of fishwater. I have been using FinerShiner(betterbait) with my water changes and I just started adding salt to the tanks. Went to Hannaford lookin for "ice cream salt" and the produce guy handed me a bag of ice melt? Can you use this? I didn`t get it , instead I bought mortons pickling and canning salt and then went to pet store and bought a box of Aquarium salt.
I added the mortons to the water, probably 5-8 tablespoons and then I added the same amount of the Aquarium salt(which is like rock salt in appearance) to the filter. Did I make a mistake adding the mortons picklin n cannin salt? If ya have any other suggestions. I will tell ya , it`s not an aeration problem, I have 14" airstones in each tank and a 550gph pond pump pumpin thru a spraybar feeding the top tank(creekchubs). I am going to do water changes twice weekly for abit and see if that helps. Just changed out 20 gallons yesterday but still am loosing fish. I think maybe the damage/sick fish are goners and are going to die regardless. Your thoughts?  TY Rottie
 *I made this post previously as a PM to a member who thought I should post it here, for more help.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: 1MOFISH on Sep 26, 2009, 11:50 AM
das is no gude das morton salt is more like mortal salt its sodium chloride a chemical concoction,the ice cream salt could be natural like the dead sea salt it is actually used for fertilizer in ISRAEL try puttin mortons on your tomatoe plants i was alarmed on how warm the water was a breeding explosion for fungus which is running rampant through the u.s. i bought beneficial bacteria to add to my tank also minnows rubbin together wears off their protective layer the colder the water the less fungus there is although in nature once you get above 98.6 degrees it actually kills bacteria thats why a fever is necessary for us to rid ourselves of intoxication jayswimmer had the same thing happen last year sorry to say the outcome hope you can get it under control    mooooo
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Sep 27, 2009, 08:48 AM
Crap, the death toll climbs ,but is slowing, hopfully I can beat it with daily water changes for awhile!
I got a Bobcat that`s comes and cleans up the dead fish pile. I`m sure she`ll clean up the crappie husks this winter eagerly too! Gonna get a trail cam and see if I can get sum pics. Seen her twice now, big cat!
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: WHITETAIL111 on Sep 27, 2009, 01:59 PM
I have a similar post up about catching bait.  I was thinking it may be a bit too early to trap bait as ice is a few months away and keeping them alive might be a chore.  I don't want to catch them only to have them die eventually over time.  Any suggestions on keeping them alive?  I'd be putting them in my field stone cellar and it stays mighty cool down there even on the hottest days.  I would guess that you should keep it well aerated, cool and do regular water changes of about 1/3 the water column.  Do you guys just use tap water treated to dechlorinate the water or are you changing the water with buckets of river/pond water?
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Sep 27, 2009, 02:21 PM
I have a similar post up about catching bait.  I was thinking it may be a bit too early to trap bait as ice is a few months away and keeping them alive might be a chore.  I don't want to catch them only to have them die eventually over time.  Any suggestions on keeping them alive?  I'd be putting them in my field stone cellar and it stays mighty cool down there even on the hottest days.  I would guess that you should keep it well aerated, cool and do regular water changes of about 1/3 the water column.  Do you guys just use tap water treated to dechlorinate the water or are you changing the water with buckets of river/pond water?
I have well water-which is usually low in dissolved oxygen , but twin 14inch airstones with their own pumps and a 550gph pump runnin thru a spraybar  take care of that- use water treatments, like FinerShiner or BetterBait and frequent water changes.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: WHITETAIL111 on Sep 27, 2009, 03:51 PM
Das....I saw your post concerning losing bait in your tank.  As I read some other posts it made me think of when I had a tropical fish tank some time ago.  Do you have gravel (store bought) in the bottom of your tank?  It might promote some algae growth there and help the tank in keeping the fish alive better.  I know that when my system got out of whack...I'd lose tropical fish.  Perhaps your system needs something to make it more environmentally friendly for the fish?  Also I read where it might be beneficial to put some structure in the tank for the fish to hide behind so not to always be swimming?  Just some thoughts?
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: 1MOFISH on Sep 27, 2009, 06:30 PM
i use areated well water but you can use treated tap water yes its too early but you can get them easier now when it gets cold you need to find the deep holes plus it rains more later in the fall see all the past posts    mo
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: 1MOFISH on Sep 27, 2009, 10:21 PM
Crap, the death toll climbs ,but is slowing, hopfully I can beat it with daily water changes for awhile!
I got a Bobcat that`s comes and cleans up the dead fish pile. I`m sure she`ll clean up the crappie husks this winter eagerly too! Gonna get a trail cam and see if I can get sum pics. Seen her twice now, big cat!
my tank went sour dont know if power went out or if it warmed up it was in the 80s here my pump generates heat great in the winter since my garage is unheated oh well have to start over good fertilizer for the garden will know better next time haste makes waste    mo
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Sep 28, 2009, 07:09 AM
What kinda pump MO? An exterior mounted or a submersible? My tanks temps are ranging from 60degrees to 50 degrees or so at nite. I don`t sneak out and check my lil buddies in the middle of the nite , but it is around 50 degrees when I get out there about 7-8 am. Temps did go up with the warm outside temps but only to 60 degrees. I think my problem is /was adding the Mortons Pickling/ canning salt and getting lazy on the water changes-230 sumodd fish pee alot! Things were coming around, gutta do anutha water change today and see. I haven`t even been out today, fingers crossed.I`m gonna boot up and run out now! ..............
  I`m back,57 degrees and only 5 fatalities. I think I may have it beat. Now just gutta replace  the deads and keep on the water changes daily for few more days . NO MORE MORTONS! Aquarium salt only! Freeze the dead big ones MO -pike don`t care! I gave a 12 chub to the Bobcat which I probaly shoulda froze for pike! I like having her around, she`ll be eating fish all winter!(HOPEFULLY-NOT THE ONES IN THE BAITTANK!)
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: 1MOFISH on Sep 28, 2009, 01:37 PM
its a submersabile 500gph attached to a prefilter then to a post filter that runs it on top. intake bottom outflow top plus 5 pumps with air stones its like the tub turned over in 1 day.water is warmed by pump and parked car plus fridge and freezer garage stays plenty warm          mo
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Sep 28, 2009, 04:03 PM
its a submersabile 500gph attached to a prefilter then to a post filter that runs it on top. intake bottom outflow top plus 5 pumps with air stones its like the tub turned over in 1 day.water is warmed by pump and parked car plus fridge and freezer garage stays plenty warm          mo
Probably too warm right now. My shed is under a large group of trees and only sees the sun for a few hours and not directly on the roof. Temps climbed as high as 63 this afternoon but are on thier way down now. Grab a thermometer and check yer tank temp. It`s gutta be a lack of 02 or high temps, that size tank probably doesn`t have many ammonia problems. Mainehazemt, told me to grab sum pond tests strips and I just might do that, to head off any problems in the future. Lost a couple of baitfish today , changed out 20 gallons. I have the two 14"fizzbars ,each with its own pump, plus the 550gph pump in bottom tank feeds the top tank thru a spraybar. Remember I have 70 gallons of fishwater-you have 275 or so.Thing blasts. I think the chubs like it. Lotsa aeration.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: WHITETAIL111 on Sep 28, 2009, 06:54 PM
What are you guys using for holding tanks for your bait?  I'm not sure what to use?  I know that in the winter I can hold like 3 dozen shiners in my small ~2gallon styrofoam bait bucket.  They last for weeks in just that!  Now If I went to a 35 gallon storage tote they sell at Wal-Mart, I'd imagine they'd last a lot longer.  In the winter I go down to the local brook and take ~4 5 gallon buckets and fill them with water and just keep them to the side to change the water for the bait.  I don't even change the water for atleast a week or more too.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: WHITETAIL111 on Sep 28, 2009, 06:56 PM
Oh yeah...before I forget....do you guys use pond water for your water changes or just tap water and treat it like you do a tropical fish tank to remove the chloramine and chlorine.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: 1MOFISH on Sep 29, 2009, 11:19 AM
What are you guys using for holding tanks for your bait?  I'm not sure what to use?  I know that in the winter I can hold like 3 dozen shiners in my small ~2gallon styrofoam bait bucket.  They last for weeks in just that!  Now If I went to a 35 gallon storage tote they sell at Wal-Mart, I'd imagine they'd last a lot longer.  In the winter I go down to the local brook and take ~4 5 gallon buckets and fill them with water and just keep them to the side to change the water for the bait.  I don't even change the water for atleast a week or more too.
there are plastic that are toxic to fish and people i know i know just ask the pond people plastics give off chemicals so you need to know the toxic ones been reading up on fishculture ammonia airation hydrogen peroxide and beneficial bacteria additives being the most critical  water changes and temps need to be monitored and additives adjusted accordingly    mo     mo
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: 1MOFISH on Sep 29, 2009, 12:10 PM
Took a few pictures of the calamity.  Ended up with a couple dozen still alive.  Hope to learn from this.  (http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h179/Morgano5/100_3679.jpg)

(http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h179/Morgano5/100_3677.jpg)
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: Nor Easter on Oct 19, 2009, 10:22 AM
Das,
I think part of your original problem was adding too much salt all at once. That filter must have dissolved it completely in not time flat.

I used to use Kosher salt which is supposedly the same as pickling salt with no problems with tropical fish, never tried it with bait, always left it plain water, mostly rain water (acidic). The other possible problem you are having is the PH of the water. You want to be neutral to on the acidic side. You can get test kits from the pet shops, including ammonia kits. You can also get the float type hydrometers to measure how much salt is in the water as well.

If you go any direction in too much of a hurry you will shock the fish and cause more fatalities than necessary IMO.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: chazmatic on Oct 29, 2009, 09:56 PM
hey das ,why dont you try a floating bait tank in pond.thats what i used to do before they out lawed it
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Oct 30, 2009, 04:15 PM
I actually rigged one up with a minnow trap suspended 5 feet below a float. I tossed it in and it would blow across the pond back n forth a couple of times a day. NADA! There are huge schools of common shiners in the pond, I have seen them and catch the occasional 7 incher in a trap. Never more than one thou, odd. I am pretty sure I can jig em up after freezeup. I plan on tossing traps in thru the ice also to the replenish the bait stock.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: 1MOFISH on Oct 31, 2009, 11:17 AM
I actually rigged one up with a minnow trap suspended 5 feet below a float. I tossed it in and it would blow across the pond back n forth a couple of times a day. NADA! There are huge schools of common shiners in the pond, I have seen them and catch the occasional 7 incher in a trap. Never more than one thou, odd. I am pretty sure I can jig em up after freezeup. I plan on tossing traps in thru the ice also to the replenish the bait stock.
i think they often feed on the bottom but move up in the water column to feed on mscopic bugs ill bet a clear trap ,might work suspended my thought who knows   mo
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Oct 31, 2009, 11:41 AM
Tank is runnin well now, ty cool temps. My pond has shut down, I think the shiners have moved deeper and I haven`t retrieved my canoe from the camp to set the traps out deep with floats yet. I might take the ride up Monday. I rod n reeled a few chubs outta the river by the house today. Here`s a pic of the biggest one->(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/DasRottweiler/bigolchub.jpg)
At least I can get plenty of them chubs. I`ll be able to jig up the big shiners when pond freezes over, I`m confident of that. I`ll sink sum traps to score smalls and mediums after freezup too.  Plenty of chubs from 5 to 12 inches->(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/DasRottweiler/Lotsachubz.jpg)
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: 1MOFISH on Oct 31, 2009, 11:50 AM
Tank is runnin well now, ty cool temps. My pond has shut down, I think the shiners have moved deeper and I haven`t retrieved my canoe from the camp to set the traps out deep with floats yet. I might take the ride up Monday. I rod n reeled a few chubs outta the river by the house today. Here`s a pic of the biggest one->(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/DasRottweiler/bigolchub.jpg)
At least I can get plenty of them chubs. I`ll be able to jig up the big shiners when pond freezes over, I`m confident of that. I`ll sink sum traps to score smalls and mediums after freezup too. I have alot of smalls and medium shiners now->(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/DasRottweiler/Bottomtank.jpg) I actually lost count when I had abit of a die off when I added to much salt to the tanks and plenty of chubs from 5 to 12 inches->(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/DasRottweiler/Lotsachubz.jpg) Over 50 chubs so far. I also have about 15-20 x-large shiners and big chubs that didn`t make it, (for one reason or anutha) that I tossed in the freezer.
NOW FOR THE ICE!
wow that is a big shiner we aint got anything like that here plus i found a barley based pond additive that clears the water adds tons of bacteria it innoculates your filter and is the best thing i used to date hope it helps   mo
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: 1MOFISH on Nov 01, 2009, 05:39 PM
any one ever trap a river for bait? in the summer we got tons right up against shore and now they are gone ?
mo
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: WHITETAIL111 on Nov 02, 2009, 08:19 PM
wow that is a big shiner we aint got anything like that here plus i found a barley based pond additive that clears the water adds tons of bacteria it innoculates your filter and is the best thing i used to date hope it helps   mo

Whats the pond additive called?  Where do you get it 1MOFish?
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: 1MOFISH on Nov 03, 2009, 01:25 PM
Whats the pond additive called?  Where do you get it 1MOFish?
pondcare powerpacks by mars mfg picked up at petsmart, single dose no measure 1 container  each month for a year the bacteria feed on the barley then feeds on the the minnows byproducts water is still crystal clear only got a couple dozen or so trappin gets slow when water gets cold    mo
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: Blaine on Nov 04, 2009, 06:37 AM
any one ever trap a river for bait? in the summer we got tons right up against shore and now they are gone ?
mo

We do well this time of year with seines and traps in the rivers. We find feeder creeks without a ton of current and look in shallow water that has a lot of fallen leaves on the bottom. The shiners like to hide in the leaves. It can make dragging a net a pain but there are usually a ton in the net.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: Uncle Al on Nov 20, 2009, 02:09 PM
There's so many shiners in the water here in Mi. I don't know how anyone can catch fish. I have a dip net, 3x3 and used it the other night, and got about 4-5 dozen on one dip. Second dip was the same way. I have these fish in a 20 gallon tank, it's kind of crowded but they seem happy.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: Mr.Seaguar on Nov 23, 2009, 02:50 PM
You guys are lucky to have that many species available. I get fatheads, creek chubs and small suckers. Do you guys feed your bait? I have noticed some small minnow tails in the bottom of my tank. I dont want them to get fat and lazy, but I dont want them eating each other.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Nov 23, 2009, 03:03 PM
I fed the creekchubs pin shiners once a week until the water temps dropped,  I fed the shiners goldfish flakes and steriods, JKiddin about the steriods, once a week as well until water temps dropped to 40F. Now I don`t feed them at all. Be aware ifya feed ,only feed what they wil consume  in 5 minutes or so, and change the water more frequently as well because of increased fish waste.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: Mr.Seaguar on Nov 24, 2009, 02:45 PM
Another qestion. So are the suckers good for pike? I`m talking suckers maybe 4-6" long. They are really easy to catch. I`ve been throwing all of them back cept the first 10 or so I caught because I wanted to see if they worked. I never caught big minnows to use in winter before, and all we ever got was farmed chubs. Thanks
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: dkfry on Nov 24, 2009, 03:34 PM
I've seen TV shows where they use live suckers around 14" or so for Pike and Musky so I'd say 4"-6" suckers would get gobbled up pretty easy.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Aug 25, 2010, 01:03 PM
I have moved from my previous residence and have my tank set-up and ready to go. Scouted several new shiner ponds to trap for summer as well as hardwater.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Sep 06, 2010, 08:52 AM
Jumpin the Gun?? I tossed my traps (6) into one of my new spots I scouted (firepond) . Took a few casts with the rod n reel to camoflauge my activety. Half an hour later I pulled a mix of pond chubs and golden shiners and transfered them to the aerated cooler in the van and beat feet. I stay with my traps and soak them for about an hour, then pull them. Used to do the overnite soak, no more. I have lost several traps to listless lazy good for nuttin punks while scouting. Now I just fish (or act like it) while I watch the traps. They seem to be doing well in the tank, which I treated with BetterBait and Aquarium Salt to get it ready to fill. As long as the temps don`t skyrocket again, I should be ok. Crossed fingers.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Sep 12, 2010, 09:08 AM
Hit 2 ponds today, not much luck, tank temps spiked and I lost sum bait  I had from the previous day of trapping. It was either that or the Aquarium Salt I added. I had a calamity last season losing sum baitfish because I added too much salt all at once. Slowly added it this season,but same deal on a smaller scale. I won`t use the crap again.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Sep 23, 2010, 07:14 AM
 My lucks gutta change-at least my waxworm project seems to be in good shape-no pupae yet, but plenty of fat n happy waxies-hopefully it will work and I`ll have a thousand or so by ice-in.   Trap on Bruthas!
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: pikeking on Sep 23, 2010, 08:07 PM
Trapped up about 4-5 dozen mediums and smalls w/ a few large shiners. Purged em for 6 hours in an aerated cooler, then tossed em in the tank. No floaters so far , after an overnite in the tanks. (Crossed fingers)! My lucks gutta change-at least my waxworm project seems to be in good shape-no pupae yet, but plenty of fat n happy waxies-hopefully it will work and I`ll have a thousand or so by ice-in.   Trap on Bruthas!
Can you post how you are diong this and some pics? I would like to try this also... Thanks PK
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: BaitWrangler on Sep 24, 2010, 11:04 AM
Trapped up about 4-5 dozen mediums and smalls w/ a few large shiners. Purged em for 6 hours in an aerated cooler, then tossed em in the tank. No floaters so far , after an overnite in the tanks. (Crossed fingers)! My lucks gutta change-at least my waxworm project seems to be in good shape-no pupae yet, but plenty of fat n happy waxies-hopefully it will work and I`ll have a thousand or so by ice-in.   Trap on Bruthas!

Hey Rott,

Jeeze I just sent you a PM and now replying to your message!

Sounds like your doing awesome with the waxworms! I figured I'd share with you a link for a forum of "bug people". If ever you did want some advice, or things get icky you could hop over there and I'm sure people would have some good input. Not sure how long it takes the waxies to undergo their metamorphosis but of course it's typical to slightly chill insects to slow that down. But those people collectivly would be of a lot more use than I if you ever wanted to utilize them. I spent about 4 years on the website during my days keeping venomous critters and I still check in occassionally despite the fact that I no longer keep any.

The site is http://www.venomlist.com  I'm sure if you look in the forum topics there would be a good place to discuss waxies and if not I'd throw in a post wherever you think - it's a nice crowd over there and I don't think anyone would hate.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Sep 24, 2010, 12:48 PM
Can you post how you are diong this and some pics? I would like to try this also... Thanks PK
I`m assuming yer refering to the Waxies, PK. To be honest , I`m a newb at this, I got all my information from->http://www.iceshanty.com/ice_fishing/index.php?topic=86070.0  (http://www.iceshanty.com/ice_fishing/index.php?topic=86070.0)and  utoob vids like ->http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pwq7GC1_QbQ&feature=related  (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pwq7GC1_QbQ&feature=related). I mixed up sum bedding/food and put 30 waxies in a glass jar . No pupae yet , we will see. Set mine up much like wormmans video, except I keep the mason jars in a glass aquaruim with a top. Use a reptile heater to keep the heat around 90degrees. Thanks for the link BaitWrangler, good place to get sum answers if need be.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: pikeking on Sep 25, 2010, 10:02 AM
I am going shopping tomorrow to get all of the things I need to raise them. I am going to try meal worms and super worms.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Sep 26, 2010, 07:12 AM
I am going shopping tomorrow to get all of the things I need to raise them. I am going to try meal worms and super worms.
Plenty of info on u-toob and the net . I went with the waxies, I think the mealworms are actually easier to breed. How goes filling the stainless tank? I jumped the gun and lost all that I trapped up-about 8-10 dozen down the tubes. Bumma, haste makes waste-smelly waste apparentely.Temps in the tanks hit 78-82 degrees. COME ON COOL WEATHER!!!!
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: BaitWrangler on Sep 26, 2010, 03:40 PM
That stinks Rott! It's happened to me before too.  But hey your practicing for later this year... lets just put it that way! :P

If you can adjust your return on your tank and have the water fall from a higher spot it will help cool things off a bit.

Ed
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Sep 27, 2010, 09:37 AM
Tank temps at 65F this morn-3 casualities from bait I trapped yesterday. Always used dry dawg food in mesh bags. Things are tight and stale bread is free, so I have been using it this year for the first time. Minnows get super bloated with the bread and require a "purging" in a separate tank b4 being introduced to the main tanks. Leave em in the "purge" tank for 6-10 hrs b4 moving to the baittanks. Water in "purge" tank (big rubbermaid style container) goes from clean to crap-filled during that time. I net em out of that mess and move em when they  are "purged". (fingers crossed)
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: 1MOFISH on Sep 27, 2010, 04:57 PM
Das, Been reading your posts, got my tank up and running.  It was 90 degrees here in Pittsburgh. I had to keep telling myself over and over again. "It's too early, it's too early, it's too early!!"  Every time you post, I have to repeat it again.  Last year, was the cleanest my tank ever ran.  I attribute it to more filter material, and innoculation with the barley product.  We're pushing the limits of aqua culture, big farm operations can't carry the volume per gallon of bait that we do.  It's because to them, it's money, and to us it's mostly time.  As my life gets more hectic, time is money.  As I've been hitting the same creeks over and over each year, I pray that the minnow populations continue at their present levels.  Could you see going out for half a day and get 3 shiners.  Umh!  Anyhow, glad to see you're still doing it, once it gets cold enough for me to get in the water, I'll post again. Good catching! 
Mo
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Sep 27, 2010, 05:17 PM
1MO, how goes it? Glad to see ya shakin off the summer. Good to hear ya gut yer 300 gallons churnin.My kids,  3 , all put a dent in my shiner haul, cuz they use em softwater too, so it`s not a total loss. I hit my ponds quite a bit for the kids and then myself later when it`s cooling down.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: pikeking on Sep 28, 2010, 04:59 PM
Plenty of info on u-toob and the net . I went with the waxies, I think the mealworms are actually easier to breed. How goes filling the stainless tank? I jumped the gun and lost all that I trapped up-about 12-15dozen down the tubes. Bumma, haste makes waste-smelly waste apparentely.Temps in the tanks hit 78-82 degrees. COME ON COOL WEATHER!!!!
I'm not trapping anything yet. It's to darn hot!!! Don't want the problems with dead bait. My tank is all cleaned out and the new canister filter is all hooked up. That thing sprays the water really good. Can't wait for the temps to drop.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: 1MOFISH on Sep 29, 2010, 10:02 AM
1MO, how goes it? Glad to see ya shakin off the summer. Good to hear ya gut yer 300 gallons churnin, ready for the season. I always jump the gun, ya know to wait till I lose like 15 dozen then start hitting yer creek!
My kids,  3 , all put a dent in my shiner haul, cuz they use em softwater too, so it`s not a total loss. I hit my ponds quite a bit for the kids and then myself later when it`s cooling down. Have seen no evidence of others trappin, and still have good hauls with assorted sizes from this years 1 inchers to 7inch breeders. All seems well.
then das is gude, my guppies got 4 turtles we go through the goldies so ill be feedin the casualties to them. our cricks were dry alot of the summer the one weve been to had very little to show mostly young of the year gamefish alot of crabz and clams oom ha the cajun in me says get out the crab boil lol it still is a little early to trap i hope the rain stacks up the bait in the deep holes  good catchin 
mo
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Sep 30, 2010, 07:27 AM
Judging by last season`s posts, things are abit warmer this season than last. Sept(last season) was cooler than this Sept, and I had trouble with high temps in the tanks then. History repeats itself, especially when water temps are a shade higher than previous season. Last season , both 1MoFish and myself had baittank calamities just days apart -roughly Sept-27.
Also trapping started to slow-up around Oct-18 and virtually shut down by Oct-30 , when tank temps were about 45 degrees.
Clik here for WaxWorm Growing Update->http://www.iceshanty.com/ice_fishing/index.php?topic=86070.msg1502622#msg1502622 (http://www.iceshanty.com/ice_fishing/index.php?topic=86070.msg1502622#msg1502622)
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Oct 04, 2010, 07:15 AM
Changed my water out. Watched enuff minnows doing the heavy-metal head-shake . Quit trying to fix the water with additives and took a 55 gallon drum to the lake and filled them with lake water. Emptied tanks and refilled with real water.  ;D
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: acrawfor on Oct 09, 2010, 09:11 PM
Has anyone ever trapped and then froze the bait to use dead? I'd rather use live bait, but being that I live in an apartment I don't have room for a tank.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: pikeking on Oct 10, 2010, 01:00 AM
Yes I have a big tank, but if they die I freeze them and use them dead. Easy meal for a big docile Pike...
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: GrizlyGarou on Oct 10, 2010, 09:38 AM
Has anyone ever trapped and then froze the bait to use dead? I'd rather use live bait, but being that I live in an apartment I don't have room for a tank.

They'll hit it dead if you can make it look alive. Some species prefer them dead, too.

I have a 30 gallon tank with about ten dozen in it right now. I'd bet you could find room for a ten gallon and get a second filter for it and put several dozen in it. You just have to change the water and clean the filters a lot when you pack them in. Don't feed them, either. Just makes the water dirty faster.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: acrawfor on Oct 10, 2010, 10:44 AM
I do have a 20 gal tank with a filter, heater, and air pump. I use to use it for ciclids and stuff (wife liked their colors). Its just sitting around now with nothing in it. But I thought that would be too small to stick a few dozen in. Figured they would all die before ice came anyhow. If I got a second filter for it you think I could put some in there that would live? What about keeping the water temp down. No where to store them outside or in a garage etc. So the water would be pretty close to my appartment temp which is around 65-70.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Oct 10, 2010, 10:56 AM
They won`t last long at all at that temp. Gutta get the water close to freezing so they stop eating and producing waste.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: GrizlyGarou on Oct 10, 2010, 11:30 AM
I do have a 20 gal tank with a filter, heater, and air pump. I use to use it for ciclids and stuff (wife liked their colors). Its just sitting around now with nothing in it. But I thought that would be too small to stick a few dozen in. Figured they would all die before ice came anyhow. If I got a second filter for it you think I could put some in there that would live? What about keeping the water temp down. No where to store them outside or in a garage etc. So the water would be pretty close to my appartment temp which is around 65-70.

Get yourself another filter. The bigger the better. You can freeze half gallon jugs and put them in there to drop the temp down. I had at least five dozen in my 30 gallon with a 30 gallon filter and a 50 gallon filter from November until march last year. Clean the filters at least once a week and change a third of the water every week or more often if it gets nasty looking.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: 1MOFISH on Oct 10, 2010, 04:20 PM
Judging by last season`s posts, things are abit warmer this season than last. Sept(last season) was cooler than this Sept, and I had trouble with high temps in the tanks then. History repeats itself, especially when water temps are a shade higher than previous season. Last season , both 1MoFish and myself had baittank calamities just days apart -roughly Sept-27.
Also trapping started to slow-up around Oct-18 and virtually shut down by Oct-30 , when tank temps were about 45 degrees. What I am getting from this, is that the tanks must be filled by Nov, and not to start trapping till about the first of Oct or be ready to chuck alot of work out back for the cats. October is not only when SamAdams makes it`s unquestionably best brew(OKTOBERFEST!), it is do or die for minnow hunters. So it is on, fellow minnow chasers, at least those north of the Mass/NH border. GOOD LUCK!

Clik here for WaxWorm Growing Update->http://www.iceshanty.com/ice_fishing/index.php?topic=86070.msg1502622#msg1502622 (http://www.iceshanty.com/ice_fishing/index.php?topic=86070.msg1502622#msg1502622)
I COULDNT AGREE MO' couldnt hold off any longer the giuppies mama pesce and the olman hit the crick it was loadeddddddddddd tried not to be greedy, with the fried chicken picnic we had lol minnies another story? the seine was heavy ended the day with a set of pipes lol and 5-  5 and 6 gallon buckets of bait one for each one of us  need a S A to water down the pipes but a high life will have to do haPPY OCTOBERFEST  DAS IS GUDE   LA CHAIM
MO
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Oct 12, 2010, 06:55 PM
Happy OctoberFest to you 2 MO. I have abuncha small/mediums in the tank and haven`t trapped at all in a while, work has been busy. The boys and thier friends will use them all , I`m sure! I will drop a trap in tomorrow if time permits. Lets see sum pics of the tank and bait. Check out my waxworm progress or lack of it here-->http://www.iceshanty.com/ice_fishing/index.php?topic=86070.50 (http://www.iceshanty.com/ice_fishing/index.php?topic=86070.50)   
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: pikeking on Oct 18, 2010, 10:42 PM
The first tank is full!!!
(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m170/bobbydaddy8/Picture509.jpg)
We got the second tank up and running on Sunday. It will be getting some bait in it this week. We are doing very well on the trapping and have decided to take a break for a few days to make sure all of the other gear is all set. Shanty is set up in the basement with NO holes in it and I will check on my augers in the morning. I put all new line on my tip ups last season, so they are good to go. Gotta go to Dick's and restock the hooks and flouro leaders.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: BaitWrangler on Oct 19, 2010, 08:11 AM
BINGO!!!!!!!!!!
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Oct 19, 2010, 11:04 AM
I sure wish we lived in the same state PK, summa them giant goldies are impressive. I have started doing the same, rod n reelin the same ponds I trap in search of the mommas and pappas! That pond you found should produce every year as long as ya stay tight-lipped about it and don`t over-trap it. That new canister filter is the nutz huh? Check this out , I found these while cruisin UncleHenrys---> http://www.unclehenrys.com/init/classifieds/ad_detail/2890679/?_next=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.unclehenrys.com%2Finit%2Fsearch%2Fresults%2F6%232890679 (http://www.unclehenrys.com/init/classifieds/ad_detail/2890679/?_next=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.unclehenrys.com%2Finit%2Fsearch%2Fresults%2F6%232890679) and
http://www.unclehenrys.com/init/classifieds/ad_detail/3705785/?_next=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.unclehenrys.com%2Finit%2Fsearch%2Fresults%2F7%233705785 (http://www.unclehenrys.com/init/classifieds/ad_detail/3705785/?_next=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.unclehenrys.com%2Finit%2Fsearch%2Fresults%2F7%233705785)
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: pikeking on Oct 19, 2010, 06:55 PM
Last year I was just running a large aquarium filter and was going through filters like crazy so it wasn't cost effective. So I looked around and found that the canister filters only need to be changed every 3 months. So I am hoping that this will cut some costs.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: Mik-N-Del on Oct 21, 2010, 08:36 AM
We've got 40 dozen in the tanks ... where's the ice at???
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: 9huskies on Oct 21, 2010, 02:18 PM
Has anyone ever trapped and then froze the bait to use dead? I'd rather use live bait, but being that I live in an apartment I don't have room for a tank.

I've done that a lot.  It's illegal to use live baitfish in my local ice fishing pond so dead bait is one of my options.  I have caught many perch and brook trout with frozen shiners and smelts.  I try to keep my bait alive until I go fishing so it is as fresh as possible but when they die in the tank they go into the freezer for later use.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: jopes on Oct 29, 2010, 08:43 PM
how many dozen of 2-3" minnows can a 36 gallon tank hold?
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: pikeking on Oct 31, 2010, 11:00 PM
Well, We are going to be setting up another tank this week. We are set with the smalls and mediums. We have a bunch of big boys, but I think we need a few hundred more. Have to get another canister filter this week and get the 3rd tank up and running for the big boys to have a nice winter home. I bought a big bottle of Better bait and new carbon material the other day and changed the water today.

Oh, I also talked a while back about trying to get permission to trap at a local farm pond, well I got it... I will be going there in the morning to do some scouting and throw in some test traps. I will keep you up dated...
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Nov 01, 2010, 08:51 AM
 Been a fair year, no stolen traps at least! How much you spending on the canister filters and how big are they PK? Might change up my system abit next year.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: 1MOFISH on Nov 01, 2010, 03:31 PM
how many dozen of 2-3" minnows can a 36 gallon tank hold?
with the right amount of water flow and depending on the minnow size and water temps as low as 50 and as high as 200  :-\ i got a 30 sittin in front of me 4 turtles and 100 or so assorted baits comets shiners catfish crappies gills and snails and crabz 350gph filter  crystal clear
GOD bless
mo
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: pikeking on Nov 01, 2010, 11:02 PM
The canister filters are Cascade 1000's I had bought a filstar and it died 3 days after being turned on so I brought it back and got these. Have not had any problems with them. They can change 400gph. They are 130 bucks each but well worth it If you think of the bait that we are storing. We are running 2 150 gallon tanks at the moment and will be adding another this week. We have lost about 20 dace in all so far due to jumping out. The goldens are all fine and ready to go. The water in the tanks was around 50 degrees and now I am sure it's more like 40 with this cold weather.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Nov 08, 2010, 07:11 AM
Got out a few days ago, 5 traps in my favorite pond-2 hour soak= NUTTIN!  I figured the high water from the rain would be a good thing. Gonna try 2 ponds today, the fav again and another not far from there,(1/2 mile) . I`ll drop 2 in one pond and head back to the fav pond and drop 3. Had 6 traps to start the season, but one steel one rotted out and was patched and then it rotted some more , so I retired it. Got 3 seasons outta it. Only buy galvy Gee`s traps now, last forever.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: 1MOFISH on Nov 08, 2010, 11:10 AM
Got out a few days ago, 5 traps in my favorite pond-2 hour soak= NUTTIN! My first strike-out this year! I figured the high water from the rain would be a good thing. Gonna try 2 ponds today, the fav again and another not far from there,(1/2 mile) . I`ll drop 2 in one pond and head back to the fav pond and drop 3. Had 6 traps to start the season, but one steel one rotted out and was patched and then it rotted some more , so I retired it. Got 3 seasons outta it. Only buy galvy Gee`s traps now, last forever. Hopefully I`ll fill the traps today and I`ll be done trappin and waiting on ice!
i had 2 rot but seineing and umbrella net more than filled in. alewifes slo die off turtles are extremely happy mo aint :'( thought about freezin them but the turtles keep starin at me lol on another thought aquarium salt should lower the temps that water freezes thus helpin the tank stay ice free need fne's input my tank clean and clear the bait in the traps was the problem all along no poop is the scoop
GOD bless
mo
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Nov 09, 2010, 12:58 PM
I froze a couple of dead ones for jiggin Mo. I set up a separate smaller tank to "purge" the baitfish I trap. Leave em in it for a day then move em into one of the other permanent baittanks, that way they leave all the waste behind in the "purge" tank. Not so necessary now, cuz I`m using the mesh bags to hold the bait, so the baitfish don`t really get alot to eat, but when I was using bread for bait, alot of the baitfish would get bread-bloat! Hit my fav pond again and struck out AGAIN. I noticed Iceholes also had a bad few days of trapping, musta been a moon phase, sumthing turned the lil finny guys off. I have a trap in today , but the pond dried out earlier in the sprin/summer , so I ain`t expecting much, even thou I snagged a few big goldens outta it when scouting earlier in the year, b4 the dryup.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Nov 20, 2010, 03:14 PM
Well, I`m pullin the plug, so to speak. Trapping has never proved productive in Nov til Ice-in for me , and less productive after ice-in. I guess I`m spoiled , but if I throw 6 traps in and don`t pull sum bait, I feel like I`m wasting my time and leavin traps out there with the chance of being stolen for lil to nuttin. I have 2  tanks -35gal barrel and 55 gal barrel , one with shiners and the other with creekchubs and suckers of all sizes. Every year I learn something new about trapping bait, this year I look back and have decided to start trapping Mid-Oct . Any earlier and too many fatalities in the tanks, any later, not productive enough .Good luck to all that are still soaking traps. See ya on the ice slab.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: 1MOFISH on Nov 21, 2010, 08:09 PM
Well, I`m pullin the plug, so to speak. Trapping has never proved productive in Nov til Ice-in for me , and less productive after ice-in. I guess I`m spoiled , but if I throw 6 traps in and don`t pull at least 5 dozen, I feel like I`m wasting my time and leavin traps out there with the chance of being stolen for lil to nuttin. I have 2  tanks -35gal barrel and 55 gal barrel and both are fairly full, one with shiners and the other with creekchubs and suckers of all sizes. Every year I learn something new about trapping bait, this year I look back and have decided to start trapping Mid-Oct . Any earlier and too many fatalities in the tanks, any later, not productive enough .Good luck to all that are still soaking traps. See ya on the ice slab.
you just keep doin it das your like a seasonal timer lol das is trappin its time to get out the nets and start castin it all works out in the end  i thought about the 2 tank method it gets like work i get a crab on no not a crawfish in the traps but one the size of a 5 gallon bucket after a night of 4 alarm chilli and a mile from the  :o :o :o shoreline  :o
GOD bless
mo
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: maine_fisha on Jan 07, 2011, 05:48 AM
whats the best type of waterway this time of year to catch shiners in? ponds, streams or what?
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Jan 07, 2011, 02:44 PM
Small ponds w/ lil to no predators. I have scouted an easy 75 ponds etc in the last 4 years. I have 4 good spots that produce. There will be legwork!
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: outdoorschris on Mar 14, 2011, 12:24 PM
Im new to trapping I threw a trap in one pool that i knew had minnows in and I caught on 8inch on and tried some other spots. Can I get any advive on what kind of food and where to mount in the stream??
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Mar 15, 2011, 08:20 AM
Just go back to the first page of this thread and start reading , the answers to your questions are there-->http://www.iceshanty.com/ice_fishing/index.php?topic=118411.0 (http://www.iceshanty.com/ice_fishing/index.php?topic=118411.0)
Also click here for other topics on bait catching and keeping tanks etc-->http://www.iceshanty.com/ice_fishing/index.php?board=67.0 (http://www.iceshanty.com/ice_fishing/index.php?board=67.0)
It is the end of the season for most of IS, so replies to your posts may be few and far between, plenty of material to read during the softwater season.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: surflizard on Aug 27, 2011, 06:24 AM
Hey Das
 I was figuring on using the pool pump/filter combo to help keep the water clean. Whats nice about it is I can back wash the filter to cut down on filter changes. I have a attached cinder blockfoundation  under the new sun room addition, it is backfilled within 12" of the top on 3 sides. With the insulated doors it stays right around 45 degrees during most of the winter and summer. I leak tested the 6' chest freezer for a week, so far so good ! I'm having male/female threaded bulkheads made for the water inlet, outlet and the drain. I got lucky because I put a Clean out for my perimeter drain in the floor before I poured it, I can turn on a ball valve to drain it. We drilled a new well last fall and hit a bad Iron deposit, i had to install a Major water filter system. I do have a spigot before the filter system, I'm wondering about the high iron content of the water ?
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Sep 02, 2011, 02:47 PM
 Sorry it has taken so long to respond. Sounds like ya got a solid start Lizardman. Grab an aquarium heater and a wall-timer for emergency use-I set mine to run for an hour or so at night midwinter and then off for 2 hours to prevent the hoses from freezing up. You may or may not need it . Bear in mind ya want your tank temps to hover just north of freezing. Bait stops eating and therefor peeing/ poopin below 40 degrees F.As far as the Iron content, I am not a fish biologist and cannot tell you definitively that it will or will not harm the bait. I will tell you I lost untold amounts of trapped up bait before I got serious and loaded the 55 gallon drum in the pickup . Off to the lake. No more problems. B4 the lake water I had to add chlormine remover etc. and the fish would still end up getting the " heavy metal headshake" b4 going belly up. Been busy workin , but I am actually taking 2 of this 3-day weekend off!   

Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Sep 05, 2011, 05:49 PM
Down to 5 traps this year, plenty still . Loaded the aerators with d-batteries left over from the hurricane scare. 
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: surflizard on Sep 05, 2011, 06:15 PM
I'm still waiting on the pump water lines and drain bulkheads from the machine shop. The freezer figures out to be 75 gallons, I need to see if they rate the aquarium heaters by the gallons ? There are some factory installed shelf brackets on the side walls that I can utilize for dividers, to keep the suckers and bait fish separated. Learned an interesting fact, the missus used to run the aquarium department at a local pet store, she's handling the water testing for me !  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Sep 10, 2011, 09:05 AM
I'm still waiting on the pump water lines and drain bulkheads from the machine shop. The freezer figures out to be 75 gallons, I need to see if they rate the aquarium heaters by the gallons ? There are some factory installed shelf brackets on the side walls that I can utilize for dividers, to keep the suckers and bait fish separated. Learned an interesting fact, the missus used to run the aquarium department at a local pet store, she's handling the water testing for me !  :thumbsup:

Most heaters (glass tube style) are set to 68-70 and cannot be adjusted lower. You have to use a timer and set it to turn on a couple times during the evening when the tank is close to freeze-up. Ideally the tank temps should be about 35 degrees , close to freezing. Bait won`t eat below 40ish and therefor don`t create waste, ammonia the nemesis of baittank gurus.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: HooKEDUP24 on Sep 10, 2011, 07:17 PM
I'm still waiting on the pump water lines and drain bulkheads from the machine shop. The freezer figures out to be 75 gallons, I need to see if they rate the aquarium heaters by the gallons ? There are some factory installed shelf brackets on the side walls that I can utilize for dividers, to keep the suckers and bait fish separated. Learned an interesting fact, the missus used to run the aquarium department at a local pet store, she's handling the water testing for me !  :thumbsup:

Surf, you can buy heaters for bird baths that turn on only when the water gets down to 40F.  They only get the water a few degrees above 40F and then shut off again, making it cost effective. 
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: beeverfishing on Sep 11, 2011, 07:10 AM
Thinking a pond heater might work better... 

http://www.farminnovators.com/page13.htm (http://www.farminnovators.com/page13.htm)

"This 300 watt pond de-icer can be a submersible pond deicer for ponds up to 300 gallons"
http://www.123ponds.com/kh8100.html (http://www.123ponds.com/kh8100.html)

http://www.garden.com/item/perfect-climate-deluxe-pond-de-icer/G23043/ (http://www.garden.com/item/perfect-climate-deluxe-pond-de-icer/G23043/)
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Sep 11, 2011, 08:33 AM
I went to the Farm Innovators site and when I click-ed on "buy" it took me to the contact page and I got no price! Followed another link of yours to here----> http://www.123ponds.com/kh8125.html (http://www.123ponds.com/kh8125.html) This looks good. Wattage is a concern, can`t run electric bill thru the roof with a 1500 watt heater. TY for yer help!
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: beeverfishing on Sep 11, 2011, 08:49 AM
Do a search on pond heaters.. there are plenty of options...
I'm in the process of moving my tank (18cf chest freezer) from my basement to the enclosed back porch.  Doesn't get cold enough in the basement.   But really hoping that I wont need a heat source to keep it from freezing once I move it.  Guess I'll find out....
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Sep 20, 2011, 04:29 PM
Finally got a chance to soak a few traps. Hit one of my spots that has not only shiners, but creek chubs(lotsa) and suckers. Got a mixed bag , probably a dozen shiners , a dozen chubs from 3"-6" and 2 suckers about 6"-6 1/2". Not bad . My boys got a crappie trip planned, this outta take care of that!



Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: surflizard on Sep 20, 2011, 04:39 PM
Nice start to the season buddy !  :thumbsup: I hoping to get the freezer home tomorrow and start assembly !
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: C P on Sep 20, 2011, 04:41 PM
Thats cool Das...Ive never thought about using chubs as bait. Some of the creeks around here a full of them. They make good bait?
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Sep 20, 2011, 04:46 PM
Thats cool Das...Ive never thought about using chubs as bait. Some of the creeks around here a full of them. They make good bait?
Yup, great bait-Big fish see lil fishy, bye bye lil fishy, really doubt the big fish pulls out a minnow identifying chart b4 pouncing on what is obviously , LUNCH! They are super rugged, I had a few last year (biguns around 8 inches long) that saw the bottom of the ice on several occasions, sporting multiple hook holes. They are mean thou, keep em away from smaller bait like common shiners or they eat em up! Just make sure they are LEGAL for use where ya at!
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: surflizard on Sep 21, 2011, 02:36 PM
I've got a Model to go by if ya need one !
(http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l113/lael19533/summer%20fishing%202010/2011%20summer%20fishing/DSCF0016.jpg)
(http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l113/lael19533/summer%20fishing%202010/2011%20summer%20fishing/DSCF0017.jpg)
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Sep 21, 2011, 03:25 PM
YUP YUP, dats the deal - gutta check the Nh FnG regulations on size etc.  Gut plenty zip/wire ties. I have a dead bugzapper (bigun) that I am going to steal the hardware cloth/wire off of to make my trap. Make up a cone/funnel and put it all together. TADA! Sucker hotel!
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: surflizard on Sep 21, 2011, 03:28 PM
The Green Mambas just flew outta Labrador !  ;)2 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Sep 21, 2011, 04:42 PM
The Green Mambas just flew outta Labrador !  ;)2 :thumbsup:
KEWL!   

 I just came in from the garage , I pulled out the "dead" bugzapper plugged it in and stuck my fingah rite past the exterior ring of hardware cloth and touched the interior ring to "test" it. Guess what happened?
Done laffin???   Yup , lit myself up! Wasn`t bad at all, just enuff to wake me up a lil! I think I may leave it intact for next bug season. Off to the hardware store....
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: beeverfishing on Sep 21, 2011, 05:43 PM
 :whistle: ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: surflizard on Sep 21, 2011, 06:11 PM
You really are a Madman ROTT, you know that !!  :roflmao:
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: MoreTroutPls on Sep 22, 2011, 12:00 PM
I'll bet you could add some wires, duct tape, and a couple poles and make up a Red Green machine to do some electroshocking!   :o

Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Sep 22, 2011, 12:19 PM
Allready checked the rule book- no electrical devices allowed in the taking of fish and/or baitfish- Bumma! ;D
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: surflizard on Sep 22, 2011, 12:51 PM
No Explosive Devices neither !!  :'( ;D
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: pontiac787 on Sep 29, 2011, 10:42 AM
So far nothing but Bluegills.  I might start trying shorter soaks.  I've being leaving the traps out overnight.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Sep 29, 2011, 11:19 AM
NH letz ya use 6- 18" traps. Take advantage of that and try EVERYWHERE you can legally. Get permission ,  for access to small ponds , industrial parks, golf courses etc. I have scouted around 50-70 places in the last 3 years. I mostly slide in and toss crumpled up bread and watch it sink. If it gets batted around by lil fishys, I toss a trap in!  If nuttin , I move on. Lotsa legwork to get your trapping operation started up , but then it gets easier as a few years go by and you can pop in a grab a few dozen when ya need em during the year.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: JIGGIN- on Sep 29, 2011, 02:18 PM
I'm trapping starting this weekend. Going for big suckers and red fin shiners. Some craw fish too.

Tis the season!

JIGGIN.

ps: Hoping no one will steal my traps this year. Had to replace the 2 they stole last year. Not cheap.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: Maineiac2 on Sep 29, 2011, 06:07 PM
I've been holding back due to warm weather.Got about 80 creek chubs(thought they were dace but did a little more research)and 10 suckers.Might try a couple sets tomorrow.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Sep 29, 2011, 07:15 PM
I've been holding back due to warm weather.Got about 80 creek chubs(thought they were dace but did a little more research)and 10 suckers.Might try a couple sets tomorrow.
The chubs are easy to keep, even in warm water, shiners not so much.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: Iceholes on Oct 03, 2011, 11:53 AM
Pulled my trap out of the game on Saturday morning.  Had a couple small goldens but I tossed em back in.
Someone is pulling my trap and messing with it.  :%$#!: Has been messed with each of the last 4 times I pulled it, so I got it out of there.  I think it is just young curious kids.

The water level on the pond is crazy.  Highest it has ever been since I started trapping several years ago.

Plan to start back up again later this week in a new location on the pond.  Will also go down with a rod/reel next weekend to try and grab some larger ones.

Hoping to do some creek/brook/river scouting this week too.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: FROZEN SHINER on Oct 06, 2011, 10:09 PM
been chasing gold all summer found some new hot spots !!!
(http://i948.photobucket.com/albums/ad328/FROZENPRODUCTIONS/DSC02584.jpg)
(http://i948.photobucket.com/albums/ad328/FROZENPRODUCTIONS/DSC02652.jpg)
(http://i948.photobucket.com/albums/ad328/FROZENPRODUCTIONS/DSC02676.jpg)
(http://i948.photobucket.com/albums/ad328/FROZENPRODUCTIONS/th_boysgoldenshiners.jpg) (http://s948.photobucket.com/albums/ad328/FROZENPRODUCTIONS/?action=view&current=boysgoldenshiners.mp4)
got bout 70 goldens !!! need to get back out !! :Psorry but fuzzy vid dont know what happen
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: surflizard on Oct 07, 2011, 04:38 AM
That has "CHOMP ME" written All over it !!  ;D
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: Maineiac2 on Oct 08, 2011, 04:26 PM
those baits are HUGE...Made another couple sets for creek chubs got about 5 dozen.finally found a use for my black coated trap,chubs seem to prefer it to the galvanized one at least 3 to 1.Same hole 3 different sets,same results.Go figure it is just the opposite with shiners.Come on cold weather.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Oct 11, 2011, 05:26 PM
Didn`t realize the last pic of yours was actually a video! Man those things are huge. The one that rockets outta the bucket was awsome. Sum guys that pannie fish put fish that size in the keeper bucket! Like I said, ya can fillet em!   Nice going!
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: FROZEN SHINER on Oct 11, 2011, 05:51 PM
thanks bud !!! the video of the water hole is my tank for bait !!!  ;D
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Oct 13, 2011, 03:52 PM
I had lived on a wooded lot in a rural area with a 2 acre pond on it that was stuffed fulla shiners. Didn`t have to go far to soak traps. 
Got out in the rain for lil while today- was miserable, so I packed it in early with only a few mediums. I failed to rod n reel any of the big goldens that had eagerly pulled the bobber down on previous visits. I`m gonna trap my multi species pond and hope for shiners and suckers tomorrow . ;)

Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: FROZEN SHINER on Oct 13, 2011, 11:02 PM
A buddy of mine has been on the gold hunt for a few days now and he got me all worked up so i went out for 30 min and hooked 3 rolled one and took the hook out of mouth of one and opened lid and tossed it right over bucket back in the drink so i got 2 lol
(http://i948.photobucket.com/albums/ad328/FROZENPRODUCTIONS/DSC03388.jpg)
(http://i948.photobucket.com/albums/ad328/FROZENPRODUCTIONS/DSC03390.jpg)
these fish are going in the tank just need to get a filter all i have is aerator.  :P


Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Oct 18, 2011, 04:37 PM
Sum more pike snacks! Nice FS!
Trapping seems to be slowing. I have rod n reeled sum nice ones lately and have been soaking traps for longer periods. Just not the numbers I was getting b4 , and the suckers at one spot have disappeared.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Oct 21, 2011, 08:30 PM
The traps are still in the truck, but I haven`t soaked em in weeks. Haven`t needed to, the boys haven`t been fishing. Maybe 2morrow. Been rod n reelin a few places on the way home from work. Good for a few each stop. Sum nice ones , nuttin like Frozen`s monsters , but still chunky. Got these 4 goldens on Thursday afta work. Was my best day!
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/DasRottweiler/Picture008-3.jpg)(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/DasRottweiler/Picture007-1.jpg)
Got 3 nice ones today as well. The leaves in the water are sure screwing with me but I`m landing more than I`m loosing now! 
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: WildOutdoorAddict on Oct 22, 2011, 07:12 AM
Good lookin bait Rott, hope every one lures in those big pike  ;)
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: Iceholes on Oct 23, 2011, 12:25 PM
Got back in to bait catchin' this week, did an hour or so rod and reelin on Friday afternoon and got a half dozen nice sized Goldens, also had a dozen mediums in trap. 
(http://i121.photobucket.com/albums/o207/conweigh/x2_8e40cd2.jpg)
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Oct 25, 2011, 04:56 PM
Monday B4 work , I grabbed up the 2 traps I let soak on Sun. The suckers are back. ;D Got about 6 suckers 8" and smaller , a dozen medium hvy shiners, and a dozen mixed chubs with sum big chubs around 7". The baitbags were empty, evidence that smaller bait had come and gone and all that was left was the biguns for the most part. Had a slow day today-same 2 traps out , only a few lil chubs. I honestly think it was because I didn`t soak my baitbags b4 I tossed em in. They seem to work better the nastier they are , especially with the suckers. ;) Stopped afta work but failed to rod n reel any. Gonna have to replace the ones me and the boys used up softwater.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Oct 27, 2011, 02:24 PM
Hey DasRottweiler

Ive been doing good with a handfull of dry dog food for the suckers.
Ya, that`s what I use. Put it in a mesh bag, secured with a ziptie/electrical tie. Keeps em from getting thier full and leaving.
I`ve been doing well, 4-5 suckers in each trap, plus shiners. I checked traps yesterday and pulled about 5-6 suckers around 6-8" and a dozen  tiny shiners. Hit a few places today and pulled traps as the water rises quickly where I have them when it rains. Hit another spot and tossed 2 traps in while I rod n reeled. No takers on the rod. Raining hard. Went and got a coffee and came back and pulled the traps.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: surflizard on Oct 27, 2011, 03:11 PM
Them Big Dace are Nice Rick, they have Scooby Snack written all over them,I'll bet the lakers and Pike tear them up !!  >:D :roflmao:

Still checkin Craigs list, uncle Henrys and recycler.com for freezers, nothing yet !  :'(
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: surflizard on Oct 28, 2011, 10:00 AM
Happy B Day by the way Buddy ! ;D  Do you have any Lake trout in your neck of the woods ?
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Oct 28, 2011, 12:20 PM
Snow on the grass- ice on the roads.... Won`t be long!

Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: doublehaul on Oct 29, 2011, 04:38 PM
Dosrotw-
Have you ever tried using canned cat food with a few puncture holes in the top? Tried it once last summer with mixed results. BTW I sealed up my freezer with bathroom caulking and she's water tight. Pics to come soon after I install underwater filter and pond pump.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Oct 31, 2011, 07:20 AM
Dosrotw-
Have you ever tried using canned cat food with a few puncture holes in the top? Tried it once last summer with mixed results. BTW I sealed up my freezer with bathroom caulking and she's water tight. Pics to come soon after I install underwater filter and pond pump.
Ya , Catfood in cans works, I used it for awhile years ago , but I prefer the dawgfood. Good luck with the tank, post up sum pics here---->
http://www.iceshanty.com/ice_fishing/index.php?topic=120188.0 (http://www.iceshanty.com/ice_fishing/index.php?topic=120188.0)
 
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Oct 31, 2011, 10:29 AM
Happy Belated B`day Rickl1968 ;D
How goes the trappin? That chest freezer full yet?
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: rickl1968 on Nov 01, 2011, 07:11 AM
Thanks Das

Used up 8 dozen over the weekend fishin for walleye, the pick's were biting good!  ;D

Time to start trapping again.....lol.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: rickl1968 on Nov 03, 2011, 01:31 PM
Had to break the ice at lunch today to pull my traps and break it again to sink them.  :o ;D ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: rickl1968 on Nov 04, 2011, 06:19 PM
Yep, I broke a trap putting it through the ice this morning. I went out to Wallyworld and Canadian Tire to find a trap, wally only had one left. So I bought it!
Set the traps late this afternoon and will check them in the morning.

This morning I got 4 dozen suckers between 3-5 inches in the trap that didn't break.  ;D
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: Iceholes on Nov 16, 2011, 11:12 AM
I am pretty much ready for the ice with my bait, but I couldn't let the recent warm up pass without getting out for a bit of rod and reeling. 

Boy am I glad I did!  The Goldens were super aggresive and I was getting nice large fish.  Did about an hour and half and got over 3 dozen, a few the size of this beauty!

(http://i121.photobucket.com/albums/o207/conweigh/1321463353.jpg)
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: ftwchopper on Nov 26, 2011, 09:05 PM
morton salt is fine to use for shiners...I use it in my aquariums all the time.Make sure you buy the kind that is iodine free.One teaspoon to ten gallons. ;D
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Nov 27, 2011, 08:10 AM
morton salt is fine to use for shiners...I use it in my aquariums all the time.Make sure you buy the kind that is iodine free.One teaspoon to ten gallons. ;D
Ya may be absolutely correct, but I had a bad experience with Morton salt. Added it to my tanks a  few summers ago and experienced a die-off like no other. I think my mistake was adding too much at once. You must add water treatment chemicals slowly . I use aquarium salt now.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: kbiz on Nov 27, 2011, 08:24 AM
Ya may be absolutely correct, but I had a bad experience with Morton salt. Added it to my tanks a  few seasons/years ago and experienced a die-off like no other. I think my mistake was adding too much at once. You must add water treatment chemicals slowly . I use aquarium salt now.

Hey ftwchopper do you catch your own bait for ice fishing?  I'm from Plainfield and fairly new at ice fishing and always buy my bait. If you do catch your bait where do you go to catch it and what do you use as a bait
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: androwildfire on Nov 27, 2011, 08:33 AM
I'm still slacking on setting up my tanks for the season. :-/ how about every one else? And are any of you still trappIng
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Nov 27, 2011, 09:25 AM
Gutta love it when people jump into a thread and don`t bother to read the original post, the first page , or anything other than the immediate post prior to the one they make.(IF THAT!) Especially when they ask questions that have been repeatedly answered pages before. Seems to happen just b4 ice-up every year.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: ftwchopper on Nov 28, 2011, 05:30 PM
KBIZ....Im sill looking for decent spots in the area to trap....I have my tanks set up and so far trapped a few small shiners but nothing terrific.Im using a store bought minnow trap and a couple homemade traps
.....Useing catfood and bread...
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: 1moslab on Dec 10, 2011, 01:27 PM
what were we talking about ??? ??? ???
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Dec 11, 2011, 08:38 PM
Just had to turn the tank heater on during the night. Set the timer to run 2 hours or so , then off for 2-3 hours or so, then back on for 2 more hours . Keeps the tank around 38 degrees overnight. Everything looking good, did a water change of 30 gallons and added BetterBait and Aquarium Salt with the new water. Used rain water for water change.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: b turdy on Dec 11, 2011, 08:40 PM
how do you guys transport your bait???  what kind of containers do you use
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: Maineiac2 on Dec 11, 2011, 08:57 PM
i use a medium size cooler with a battery powered air pump
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: b turdy on Dec 11, 2011, 09:41 PM
does she leak on ya?
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: DasRottweiler on Dec 12, 2011, 06:23 AM
how do you guys transport your bait???  what kind of containers do you use
I use a 5gallon aerated bucket and an Igloo insulated cooler. The Igloo stays in the truck when I check traps and then any bait caught goes in it for the ride home to the tanks.  The screw-off lid on the Igloo WILL freeze on, mine is cracked, evidence of that. As long as the Igloo doesn`t tip over (I bungee it in place) , I have no leaking. I am assuming you were asking how we transport bait when trappin?, I use the 5gallon bucket on the ice as well as a smaller bait bucket when I travel light.


Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: ftwchopper on Dec 16, 2011, 04:38 PM
(http://i1185.photobucket.com/albums/z358/ftwchopper/CIMG0923.jpg)
(http://i1185.photobucket.com/albums/z358/ftwchopper/CIMG0924.jpg)

Twin 40 gallon trash buckets with 11/2 siphon inbetween......300 gallon pump to 5gallons of bio balls via home made spay bar....bio balls have 21 square feet of surface are for bacteria to grow and super saturates the water with oxygen.One gallon of bioballs will support 60 gallons of water heavily stocked with bait.
The nice thing about this setup is you can expand with extra barrels as needed.
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: FRESHBAIT on Dec 16, 2011, 06:43 PM
nice setup, 
Alot of people forget about the bacteria that is needed for a good healthy system.  Alot of times all you need is a good amout of surface area for the bacteria and your golden.  I used to use a pool sand filter to do all my filtering for my tanks.  Just had to get rid of it when I moved 3yrs ago,  wish now I would have kept it. 

Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: ftwchopper on Dec 16, 2011, 07:18 PM
Sand filters have a huge amount of surface area for bacteria and should do a good job at keeping bait in the largest of tanks......most pool pumps are up to 1hp and pump 5gallons a minute......thats serious water flow!
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: b turdy on Dec 16, 2011, 10:05 PM
I use a 5gallon aerated bucket and an Igloo insulated cooler. The Igloo stays in the truck when I check traps and then any bait caught goes in it for the ride home to the tanks.  The screw-off lid on the Igloo WILL freeze on, mine is cracked, evidence of that. As long as the Igloo doesn`t tip over (I bungee it in place) , I have no leaking. I am assuming you were asking how we transport bait when trappin?, I use the 5gallon bucket on the ice as well as a smaller bait bucket when I travel light.

yes sir -- I have a 40 something quart cooler with an airerator -- only problem is, when i hit a bump, she splashes, and the leaks all over -- just trying to figure out how to keep the water in.....
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: MaineICER on Jan 04, 2012, 03:56 PM
Hey guys!! I need some NH gouge..  Well, originally from midcoast maine I am now here in Manchester NH and love it here.. Been in CA for 5 years and so glad to be back in NE.. The ol lady is planted down with a good job and there's plenty of water around for me to play! I have set traps all around here in paces where one would think there has to be SOMETHING, turn up with nothing.. I'm not completely new to trapping, have caught thousands and stocked a pond behind the folks' place but down here I am new to the area and have NO idea where to go.. any help?  I have a few set in a nice secure place on Massabesic.. kinda my last resort for right now..  SO... any of you familiar with the Manchester/Hooksett area? I need some help here!! No i'm not going to trap the &*^% out of it, i made one trap and bought one and just want to keep a few dozen on hand so that I can have bait on hand at all times.. I think the only place around here close is the taxidermy hunt/fish shop by the traffic circle in Hooksett..  If you have storage for the little guys, I would even help stock you up when I can too.. I'm active duty and am a survival instructor with a crazy schedule so you could even borrow the traps.. I am a real guy here with no fishin buddies within an hour from here so whatever I can do to help... OH, I also have an Eskimo auger that has bad compression, would consider trades for stuff.. If you guys dont want to give up your favorite watering hole that's cool, I understand.. Happy fishing to you all!!  :tipup:   email me if you would... maineyamahaman at yahoo
Title: Re: Minnow Trapping/Bait Catchin`
Post by: FRESHBAIT on Jan 04, 2012, 06:50 PM
MaineICER,
where are you working out of?? Kittery???  I'm stationed down in kittery but I live in the midcoast area and commute back and  forth from kittery to the midcoast about 2 times a week.  I know of some spots in the kittery/berwick area.   Shoot me a pm.