How to Buy Fathead Minnows

small fish image by Bionic Media from Fotolia.com

Fatheads prefer mid-water and lower-depth streams, lakes and ponds. They are identified by a rounded snout, short rounded fins and a darkening along the mid-line of the back. Fatheads can thrive in high temperatures and low oxygen levels, but schools typically flourish in any stream or water resource where little competition is present. Anglers purchase minnows from a variety of sources and use the fish as bait to attract large fish such as catfish, bass and bluegills.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Step 1

Visit a local feed and grain store. Fathead minnows are also available through bait dealers, fish farmer markets and commercial fish hatcheries.

Step 2

Request a discount when purchasing in bulk. Injured minnows may be sold at a discounted rate, but fish that are injured rarely thrive after a change in environment. Instead, request a free dozen for every 10 dozen that you purchase.

Step 3

Transport the minnows in a bait bucket. Attach an aerator to keep the water oxygenated. Avoid spillage with an interior that lifts out of a larger bucket.

Step 4

Maintain the same water temperature as the storage tank. Use a thermometer to check that the water temperature is consistent with the holding water. Keep the water temperature constant throughout the day.

Step 5

Attach a bubbler to the inside of the holding bucket. Bubblers create turbulence and current, which minimize stress and may help minnows thrive longer.

Tips & Warnings

Contact the conservation department in your state for a list of commercial fish hatcheries offering fathead minnows in your area.

Shop around for the best price. Online bait shops offer discounts and competitive pricing.

Article Written By Charlie Gaston

Charlie Gaston has written numerous instructional articles on topics ranging from business to communications and estate planning. Gaston holds a bachelor's degree in international business and a master's degree in communications. She is fluent in Spanish and has extensive travel experience.

Editor's Pick

Backcountry Camping Tips

You've already tried car and RV camping. You've camped at commercial campsites that had a convenient restroom and water supply. Now, you want to explore the road less traveled. Backcountry camping, also known as primitive camping, is a wonderful way to explore the remote...
More Backcountry Camping...
Popular Article

Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

Pismo State Beach, California, has many attractions and activities including camping, swimming, hiking and wildlife viewing. Birdwatching is one of the primary activities in the area. The park also has the largest over-wintering colony of monarch butterflies in the natio...
More Beach Camping...
Featured Video

Common Sense Hiking Tips

The first and most fundamental thing is never hike alone. There are too many situations, especially as an unexperienced hiker, where you may find yourself without anyone to help you. So the buddy system works and applies very much in hiking.
More Camping Basics...