Fish love live bait, and here is a list of popular baits used in saltwater fishing. Remember, the freshest bait will yield the best results as a old, dead, lifeless fish or shellfish at the end of a line will not attract anything.

This list is a general list applicable to Southern California. Look at the area you are in and find out what the fresh bait used is, and what the best ways are to attach to a line and hook. Every region will have its own specialty as far as bait goes, and regional fisherman have their favorites.

Live Bait - Fish and Shellfish

Anchovies
These are small silver looking fish and many fish love these. They can be hooked through the gills, through the nose or other body part. Anchovies are a delicate fish, but handled correctly will be a great attractor for fish.

Crabs
If you are fishing from the beach, an easy live bait to catch is a sand crab. They are easy to dig for (just use your hand) and while they may be quick to lose as they are quick in the running, they are easy to spot in the sand. A net will be helpful catching them.

Bloodworms
Bloodworms can be purchased at a tackle and bait shop and used the same ways as a garden yard worm for freshwater fishing.

Squid
Squid can be used live or frozen. They can be used whole or cut up into pieces big enough to hook and bait.

Fresh Bait - Cut Up Fresh Fish

Fillets and Prime Pieces of Fish
If fresh fish cannot feasably be used or caught for fishing, cut up fillets and prime pieces of fresh fish can be used. When cutting up fillets of fresh fish, the easiest (and best way) to handle the fillest is to leave the SKIN ON as the skin will help keep everthing intact while it is placed in the water and tugged and pulled by both the fisherman and the water.

Treat the freshly cut up fish the same way you would fresh LIVE bait, that is keep it chilled and keep it from spoiling. A piece of rotted, stinking fish will not attract anything worth keeping or catching and releasing.