When you shop through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This educational content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice.

Best Live Bait For Muskie (2025 Updated)

If you’re looking for an effective way to catch muskie, live bait may be the answer. But before you head out to the water, there are a few factors you should consider when selecting the right live bait for muskie fishing.

First and foremost, the size of the bait matters. Muskie are known for their voracious appetites, so using larger bait is often more effective. Additionally, choose a bait that mimics the natural prey of the muskie in the area where you’ll be fishing. Do some research beforehand to determine what kind of baitfish are found in the waters where you’ll be fishing.

Are you tired of going home empty-handed after a day of muskie fishing? Do you want to increase your chances of catching the trophy fish of your dreams? Choosing the right live bait can make all the difference. But what size bait should you use? How do you choose the right bait to mimic the natural prey of muskie in your area? Keep reading to learn more about how selecting the right live bait can lead to successful muskie fishing trips.

10 Best Live Bait For Muskie

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
It is ideal for storing and transporting live bait while fishing.
2
The product is ideal for fishing bass and trout in both freshwater and saltwater due to its lifelike bionic swimming lure design.
3
The product is ideal for fishing bait.
4
The product is ideal for eliminating rodent infestations in residential or commercial properties.
5
The product is ideal for fishing musky and pike with an inline spinner bait.
6
Ideal for attracting large fish with realistic design, heavy-duty construction, and built-in lead blocks for stability.
7
The product is ideal for fishing bass and trout in both freshwater and saltwater, using jighead lures and paddle tail swimbaits.
8
Ideal for fishing in both freshwater and saltwater environments, with a strong handle and high drag capabilities.
9
This product is ideal for landing muskies when fishing due to its lightweight yet strong design and knotless netting.
10
The fishing lure is ideal for catching freshwater fish like pike, musky, and bull coarse fish.
It is ideal for storing and transporting live bait while fishing.
The product is ideal for fishing bass and trout in both freshwater and saltwater due to its lifelike bionic swimming lure design.
The product is ideal for fishing bait.
The product is ideal for eliminating rodent infestations in residential or commercial properties.
The product is ideal for fishing musky and pike with an inline spinner bait.
Ideal for attracting large fish with realistic design, heavy-duty construction, and built-in lead blocks for stability.
The product is ideal for fishing bass and trout in both freshwater and saltwater, using jighead lures and paddle tail swimbaits.
Ideal for fishing in both freshwater and saltwater environments, with a strong handle and high drag capabilities.
This product is ideal for landing muskies when fishing due to its lightweight yet strong design and knotless netting.
The fishing lure is ideal for catching freshwater fish like pike, musky, and bull coarse fish.

1. Frabill Magnum Bait Station 13 Quart Live Bait Well, White And Yellow

For over eight decades, Frabill has been a trusted brand for anglers. The Frabill 19 Quart Live Bait Cooler with Aerator is an excellent product for storing live bait. The cooler has a 19 quart capacity and comes with an aerator integrated into the lid. Its dimensions are 19.5” L x 17.75” W x 13.8” H. The deluxe dual-speed aerator comes with a 12V power adapter that can be used to run the aerator. It also has the option to run on two D batteries (not included).

The Frabill 19 Quart Live Bait Cooler is designed for durability with an injection-molded body and bait-friendly rounded internal corners. It has 1” commercial grade foam insulation that ensures baits are safe and active, regardless of the temperature. The insulation also makes it a great cooler when not used for bait.

The Frabill 19 Quart Live Bait Cooler with Aerator was tested in below freezing temperatures and functioned at the highest level. It features a large carry handle for heavy loads and a non-slip bottom to prevent slipping and sliding. The cooler also includes a lift-out net liner and padded shoulder strap for convenience.

Pros

  • Large capacity of 19 quart
  • Comes with an aerator integrated into the lid
  • Deluxe dual-speed aerator with 12V power adapter included
  • Option to run on two D batteries (not included)
  • Injection-molded body and bait-friendly rounded internal corners for durability
  • 1” commercial grade foam insulation ensures baits are safe and active
  • Can also be used as a cooler
  • Tested in below freezing temperatures and functioned at the highest level
  • Features a large carry handle and non-slip bottom for convenience

2. Bionic Swimbaits: Lifelike Fishing Lures Kit.

TRUSCEND fishing lure is a perfect choice for those who are looking to catch more fish. It features an 8 segment multi-jointed body that sinks slowly and moves flexibly in water. The life-like swimming actions of this lure attract more catches and provoke predator fish to strike. This swimbait is made of high-quality ABS material and equipped with built-in rattle, which allows it to continuously emit the fish sound wave during swimming to provoke the feeding urge of the fishes and induce them to attack. Moreover, this swimbait has 3D realistic looking eyes and pearl powder coating, which makes it appear very delicate and vivid like a real fish. This feature makes it a perfect fishing bait that easily cheats the target fishes. The bass vibration of this fishing lure can be widely used to catch bass, yellow perch, walleye, pike, muskie, roach, trout, snook, salmon, etc. This swimbait is quite suitable for both saltwater and freshwater and functions well in all water layers. In addition, this fishing bait offers 12-months quality assurance and lifetime professional customer service.

TRUSCEND fishing lure is a must-have for any fishing enthusiast. With its high-quality ABS material and 8 segment multi-jointed body design, this lure sinks slowly and moves flexibly in water, making it more attractive to predators. The life-like swimming actions of this lure make it appear like a real fish. It has 3D realistic looking eyes and pearl powder coating, which makes it look delicate and vivid in water. The built-in rattle of this swimbait emits fish sound waves during swimming, which triggers the feeding urge of the fishes to attack. This fishing bait can be used to catch a variety of species, including bass, yellow perch, walleye, pike, muskie, roach, trout, snook, salmon, etc. It is suitable for both saltwater and freshwater and functions well in all water layers. Additionally, it offers 12-months quality assurance and lifetime professional customer service, making it a reliable and trustworthy product.

TRUSCEND fishing lure is a game-changer when it comes to catching more fish. The 8 segment multi-jointed body design of this lure allows it to sink slowly and move flexibly in water. The life-like swimming actions of this lure attract more catches and provoke predator fish to strike. With 3D realistic looking eyes and pearl powder coating, this swimbait appears very delicate and vivid in water, which makes it a perfect fishing bait that easily cheats the target fishes. The built-in rattle of this fishing bait emits fish sound waves during swimming, which triggers the feeding urge of the fishes to attack. This fishing lure can be used to catch a variety of species, including bass, yellow perch, walleye, pike, muskie, roach, trout, snook, salmon, etc. It is suitable for both saltwater and freshwater and functions well in all water layers. Moreover, it offers 12-months quality assurance and lifetime professional customer service, ensuring that customers are satisfied with their purchase.

Pros

  • 8 segment multi-jointed body design allows it to sink slowly and move flexibly in water
  • Life-like swimming actions attract more catches and provoke predator fish to strike
  • 3D realistic looking eyes and pearl powder coating make it appear very delicate and vivid in water
  • Built-in rattle emits fish sound waves during swimming, which triggers the feeding urge of the fishes to attack
  • Can be used to catch a variety of species, including bass, yellow perch, walleye, pike, muskie, roach, trout, snook, salmon, etc.
  • Suitable for both saltwater and freshwater and functions well in all water layers
  • Offers 12-months quality assurance and lifetime professional customer service

3. Berkley Gulp! Sand Crab Flea New Penny, 1-Inch

The Gulp! Saltwater Sand Crab Flea New Penny bait is a must-have for any angler looking to catch fish in saltwater. This bait is designed to offer an authentic taste, look and feel, with rapid scent dispersion to attract fish quickly. The Sand Crab Flea bait may be small in size, but it is big on durability, making it a great investment for any angler.

Made from 100-percent biodegradable materials, the Sand Crab Flea bait looks, feels and smells like the real thing, making it highly effective at catching fish. This bait is available in the new penny color, which is a great option for fishing in a variety of saltwater environments. The bait measures 1-inch in length, making it the perfect size for a wide range of fish species.

Whether you're a seasoned angler or just starting out, the Gulp! Saltwater Sand Crab Flea New Penny bait is a great addition to your fishing gear. Its durability, authenticity and effectiveness make it a top choice for any angler looking to catch fish in saltwater.

Pros

  • Offers an authentic taste, look and feel
  • Rapid scent dispersion to attract fish quickly
  • Small in size but big on durability
  • Made from 100-percent biodegradable materials
  • Highly effective at catching fish
  • Available in the new penny color
  • Perfect size for a wide range of fish species

4. Tomcat With Bromethalin Bait Chunx Pail

The Agricultural Rodent Control Blocks are designed for use in and around agricultural buildings and homes. These blocks are highly effective in killing Norway rats, roof rats, and house mice. The rats and mice cease feeding after consuming a toxic dose of the block, leading to their eventual death. The product is ready to use and is perfect for indoor use.

These blocks are capable of killing up to 12 mice per 1 oz. block and up to 10 rats per 4 oz. block. The Agricultural Rodent Control Blocks are also effective against anticoagulant-resistant Norway rats, roof rats and house mice.

The product is easy to use, and its effectiveness ensures that your homes and agricultural buildings are free from rodents. The blocks are a reliable solution to your rodent problems.

Pros

  • Effective in killing Norway rats, roof rats, and house mice
  • Can kill anticoagulant-resistant rodents
  • Ready to use and easy to apply
  • Perfect for indoor use
  • Kills up to 12 mice per 1 oz. block and up to 10 rats per 4 oz. block

5. Hot Perch Musky Spinner – Tooth Shield Tackle.

Looking for the perfect lure to catch toothy fish? Look no further than this bucktail, handmade in Wisconsin to perfection. Its large profile in the water is irresistible to fish, making it a must-have for any angler.

The bucktail features a hot perch skirt made from magnum flashabou from Hedron Inc., adding to its attractiveness. Additionally, the lure comes equipped with two 7/0 hooks from Mustad that are sure to keep your catch secure.

The bucktail also features two blades – a #10 perch colorado blade and a #9 florescent blade – that add to its appeal and make it stand out in the water. This brand new lure is sure to become a staple in your tackle box.

As an added bonus, this bucktail comes with a free Tooth Shield Tackle window sticker with purchase. Don't miss out on the chance to add this high-quality lure to your collection.

Pros

  • Handmade in Wisconsin to ensure top-notch quality
  • Large profile in the water is irresistible to fish
  • Hot perch skirt made from magnum flashabou from Hedron Inc. adds to its attractiveness
  • Equipped with two 7/0 hooks from Mustad to keep your catch secure
  • Features two blades – a #10 perch colorado blade and a #9 florescent blade – that add to its appeal
  • Comes with a free Tooth Shield Tackle window sticker with purchase

6. Ultimate Squid Bait Kit – Realistic And Effective

The Xquisite topwater fishing lure is a must-have for any angler. Its simulated squid design, 3D holographic eyes, and lifelike skin with beautiful colors make it extremely attractive to fish at all times.

This lure is equipped with built-in multicolored lead blocks that provide an excellent swimming stroke and streamlined baits. This feature helps raise the throwing distance and ensures that the lure is easy to cast.

The fish mouth hitting water design is another unique feature of this lure. When the lure hits the water, it produces a vibration that attracts fish. This feature makes the Xquisite topwater fishing lure an effective tool for catching predator fish such as bass, yellow perch, walleye, pike, muskie, trout, and tuna.

The Xquisite topwater fishing lure is also equipped with two sharp treble hooks that have a degree of tin enhancement durability and high flexibility. These hooks easily puncture the fish, making it easy to catch them.

This lure is suitable for both saltwater and freshwater fishing, making it a versatile tool for anglers. It is a wonderful bait that guarantees a successful fishing experience.

Invest in the Xquisite topwater fishing lure today and take your fishing game to the next level!

Pros

  • Simulated squid design, 3D holographic eyes, and lifelike skin with beautiful colors make it extremely attractive to fish at all times.
  • Built-in multicolored lead blocks provide an excellent swimming stroke and streamlined baits, helping to raise the throwing distance.
  • Fish-mouth hitting water design produces vibrations that attract fish.
  • Two sharp treble hooks with degree tin enhancement durability and high flexibility easily puncture fish.
  • Suitable for both saltwater and freshwater fishing.
  • A versatile tool for anglers.

7. Truscend Paddle Tail Swimbaits: Versatile Fishing Lures

The Truscend freshwater fishing lures are made with high-quality materials from Japan and are the perfect size at 3.5 inches, making them versatile enough to catch a wide range of fish species. Whether you're fishing in reefs, estuaries, rivers, fresh or saltwater, the Truscend lures for fishing are a must-have paddle tail lure to target bass, trout, Walleye, pike snook, salmon, redfish, and many more.

These bass fishing lures have a special 3D paddle tail that gives off turbulence, ultra-realistic patterns, life-like holographic eyes, and solid wire through construction to an ultra-sharp BKK back hook. The Top Hook protects against hangups, and its weedless nature enables you to fish it well through all types of cover. The soft body swimbaits generate the perfect kicking action, giving the lure a lifelike action that will attract fish.

The Truscend fishing bait has an ideal weight for long casting and slow sinking, making it perfect for achieving a slow, flutter presentation. Featuring a precisely engineered shape, you can easily cast the fishing jigs bait into your ideal fish area. The lively Japanese design perfectly emulates erratic baitfish action, making it more realistic and attractive to fish.

Equipped with a sharp, high-quality, high-carbon steel hook on the back, the innovative design of these soft lures can help ensure increased fish hookups in all situations while avoiding getting hung up when fishing. The Truscend bass lures can take your bass fishing game to the next level.

Pros

  • Made with high-quality materials from Japan
  • Versatile enough to catch a wide range of fish species
  • Special 3D paddle tail gives off turbulence, ultra-realistic patterns, life-like holographic eyes, and solid wire through construction to an ultra-sharp BKK back hook
  • Weedless nature enables you to fish it well through all types of cover
  • Ideal weight for long casting and slow sinking
  • Lively Japanese design perfectly emulates erratic baitfish action
  • Equipped with a sharp, high-quality, high-carbon steel hook on the back

8. Maxpower Baitcaster: Lightweight & Powerful Fishing Reel

The Piscifun Alijoz 300 baitcasting reel is an excellent tool for catching big fish with ease. It is designed to handle the biggest freshwater fish and inshore saltwater species. The reel boasts an incredible 33lbs of drag and HUGE Hamai cut hardened brass gearing, making it easier for anglers to catch their dream fish.

Crafted with premium aluminum frame and handle, the Alijoz 300 fishing reel is incredibly durable and sturdy. It is loaded with high-end components, including 8 double shielded stainless steel bearings and one instant anti-reverse, making it built to withstand the toughest fishing conditions.

The Alijoz 300 baitcasting reel features an ergonomic design with a super easy to access thumb bar engage button on the gear side plate. The super sturdy line wrap spool eliminates the need for mono as backing, while the double shafts support line guide system increases stability and durability. The 8 effective magnetic braking system prevents overruns and backlash, and the inner wrapped thumb bar pad provides better comfort.

This fishing reel is a versatile tool that adapts to your personal preferences. With 5.9:1 and 8.1:1 gear ratios and different color-coated features, you can customize the Alijoz 300 to match your needs. You can also choose between an ordinary double handle or a strong power handle for added control and power.

The Piscifun Alijoz 300 baitcasting reel is suitable for musky and saltwater fishing. It is a good value for the price, offering a smooth and lightweight fishing experience.

Pros

  • Incredible 33lbs of drag and HUGE Hamai cut hardened brass gearing for catching big fish with ease
  • Crafted with premium aluminum frame and handle for durability and sturdiness
  • Loaded with high-end components, including 8 double shielded stainless steel bearings and one instant anti-reverse, making it built to withstand the toughest fishing conditions
  • Ergonomic design with a super easy to access thumb bar engage button on the gear side plate for added convenience
  • Versatile tool that adapts to personal preferences with customizable gear ratios and handle options

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for those who prefer a spinning reel
  • – May be heavier compared to other baitcasting reels

9. Mighty Muskies Conservation Landing Net

Since 1938, Frabill has been a trusted brand among anglers. The Frabill Lightweight One-Man Musky Net is a perfect tool to help you catch fish without causing any harm. The linear bottom of the net reduces fish rolling and makes it easy to catch fish of any size. The net is designed ergonomically with a reinforced handle that provides optimum comfort and control while catching fish.

The Frabill One-Man Musky Net is made of 100% knotless mesh that eliminates fish injuries. The tangle-free net coating ensures that the hooks do not get snagged or tangled in the net while you are fishing. The teardrop hoop shape gives the net a unique look, and the hoop size is 32" x 41". The sliding handle is 48" long, and the net depth is 54".

Overall, the Frabill Lightweight One-Man Musky Net is a great investment for any fisherman. It is lightweight, easy to use, and very effective in catching fish without causing any harm to them. With its unique design and high-quality materials, this net is a must-have for anyone who loves to fish.

Pros

  • Linear bottom reduces fish rolling
  • Reinforced handle provides optimum comfort and control
  • 100% knotless mesh eliminates fish injuries
  • Tangle-free net coating prevents hooks from snagging and tangling in the net
  • Teardrop hoop shape gives the net a unique look

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for catching larger fish

10. Mizugiwa Freshwater Lure Pack – Catch Big Fish!

The Pike Musky Dawg Fishing Soft Bait is a highly sought-after lure that is designed to attract Pike and Musky fish species. Measuring 200mm and weighing 45g, this soft bait comes in four different colors to match the preferences of different anglers. It is a must-have addition to any Pike or Musky angler's tackle box, thanks to its proven effectiveness in catching these fish.

This soft bait is designed to be balanced with a jig head, which enables it to swim down at a 45-degree angle on the fall, and horizontally on the retrieve. The lure's balanced design ensures that it mimics the natural movement of real fish, making it irresistible to Pike and Musky fish species.

Made from high-quality materials, this Pike Musky Dawg Fishing Soft Bait Lure is durable and can withstand the tough conditions of fishing. It is also easy to use, making it an ideal option for both novice and experienced anglers alike.

Pros

  • Comes in four different colors to match the preferences of different anglers
  • Balanced design ensures that it mimics the natural movement of real fish
  • Made from high-quality materials, making it durable and suitable for tough fishing conditions
  • Easy to use, making it ideal for both novice and experienced anglers alike

Best Live Bait For Muskie FAQs

How do you rig live bait for muskie fishing?

When it comes to muskie fishing, live bait can be a great option to lure these elusive predators. Rigging live bait for muskie fishing can be a bit tricky, but with the right techniques and equipment, you can increase your chances of success.

One popular method is the slip sinker rig, which involves using a sinker to keep the bait near the bottom of the water where muskies are known to lurk. To rig this, you’ll need a slip sinker, a leader line, a hook, and your live bait of choice. Thread the slip sinker onto the main line, then tie on the leader line and hook. Finally, hook your live bait through the lips or back and cast out into the water.

Another option is the quick strike rig, which involves using two treble hooks to secure the bait in place. To rig this, you’ll need a leader line, two treble hooks, and your live bait. Tie one treble hook to the leader line, then thread the hook through the muskie’s mouth and out the gills. Then, attach the second treble hook to the first one, ensuring that the hooks are facing opposite directions. Hook your live bait through the lips or back and cast out into the water.

Regardless of the rig you choose, be sure to use fresh, lively bait and always follow local fishing regulations. Happy muskie fishing!

What are some tips for using live bait to catch big muskie?

Live bait is an excellent option for catching big muskie. However, it requires some skill and knowledge to use live bait effectively. Here are some tips that could help:

1. Choose the Right Bait: Muskie feed on a variety of live bait such as suckers, shad, and perch. Therefore, choose the right bait that is locally available and the one that the muskie prefers.

2. Keep the Bait Alive: The livelier the bait, the more attractive it is to the muskie. Therefore, keep the bait alive and healthy by changing the water frequently and keeping it cool.

3. Use the Right Rigging: The rigging you use will determine how effective your live bait is. Use a rig that is appropriate for the size and type of bait you are using.

4. Use the Right Hook: The hook should be strong enough to handle the weight of the bait and the muskie. Choose a hook that is sharp and the right size for the bait.

5. Be Patient: Muskie are known to be elusive and can take their time before biting. Therefore, be patient and give the muskie time to take the bait before setting the hook.

In conclusion, using live bait to catch big muskie requires some skill and patience. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of success.

What are the best live bait options for muskie fishing?

When it comes to muskie fishing, live bait can be a great option to attract these elusive predators. There are several live bait options that are popular among muskie anglers. Some of the most effective live baits for muskie fishing include large sucker minnows, live shad, and live chubs.

Sucker minnows are a favorite among many muskie anglers because they are a large bait that can attract big muskies. Live shad can also be an excellent option as they are a common prey of muskies. Chubs are another popular choice as they are hardy and can withstand the struggles of being hooked.

It's important to note that the best live bait for muskie fishing can vary depending on the location and time of year. Anglers should research the waters they plan to fish and ask local experts for advice on what live bait is most effective in that area.

It's also important to handle live bait with care to keep them healthy and ensure they remain lively on the hook. Using a quality live bait container and changing the water frequently can help keep your bait alive and healthy.

What is the best time of day to use live bait for muskie?

The best time of day to use live bait for muskie largely depends on the time of year and weather conditions. During the summer months, muskie tend to be more active in the early morning or late evening when the water is cooler. This means that using live bait during these times could yield better results. However, in the fall months when the water starts to cool down, muskie become more active throughout the day, making it a good time to use live bait.

It's also important to consider the weather conditions when deciding on the best time to use live bait. On overcast or cloudy days, muskie may be more active and feeding throughout the day, making it a good time to use live bait. On sunny days, muskie may be more likely to retreat to deeper waters or under cover, making it less effective to use live bait during the middle of the day.

Ultimately, the best time of day to use live bait for muskie will depend on a variety of factors, including the time of year, weather conditions, and location. It's important to do your research and consider these factors before heading out on your fishing trip.

Where can you find live bait for muskie fishing?

Live bait is an essential part of muskie fishing, and finding the right bait can often make or break your fishing experience. Fortunately, there are several places where you can find live bait for muskie fishing.

One of the best places to start is your local bait and tackle shop. These shops will typically carry a variety of live bait options, including minnows, nightcrawlers, and leeches. They may also have specialty baits that are specifically designed for muskie fishing.

Another option is to look for a local fisherman's co-op or fish farm. These organizations often sell live bait to the public, and they may have a wider selection of bait than your local bait and tackle shop.

If you're willing to put in a little extra effort, you can also catch your own live bait. Minnow traps, for example, are an effective way to catch your own baitfish. You can also collect your own nightcrawlers by digging in your yard or in a nearby field.

Ultimately, the key to finding live bait for muskie fishing is to do your research and explore all of your options. With a little effort, you should be able to find the perfect bait to help you land that trophy muskie.

Leave a Comment