One of the most popular baits for freshwater anglers in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia are wax worms, otherwise known as waxies. Waxworms for fishing catch a wide variety of species and are available at the vast majority of bait shops. Despite the small size of the bait worm, they are highly effective. Learn about using wax worms for fishing. Add these worms to the arsenal of your baits. 

Are Wax Worms Good For Fishing

Wax worms for fishing are excellent. The tiny worms are simple to handle; therefore, the bait is easily applied to the fishing hook.

Not only do the fish see the white to yellow colored worm with their eyes, but they smell the fishing bait in addition. The combination of the two draws fish towards the worm and increases the number of strikes. 

Waxworms are sold in plastic cups with a lid and therefore are easily transported from the fishing bait store to the lake, river, or stream to be put to use. 

Can You Fish With Dead Wax Worms

Unfortunately, when containers of wax worms are stored for extended periods or become too hot, the worms die.

A dead worm is effective for catching fish if it has not turned mushy and badly decomposed. Live waxworms are ideal, but in a pinch, a dead worm will suffice. 

To maximize the life of store-bought waxworms, keep the bait in temperatures ranging between fifty and sixty degrees. When temperatures are above or below this range, they risk dying. Keeping the bait container out of direct sunlight on hot days when fishing from a boat or land is most important. 

How Do You Hook A Wax Worm

When it comes to how to hook a wax worm, attaching a waxworm to a hook is a straightforward process. However, one particular method is more effective, resulting in catching a higher quantity of fish. 

Utilize a size eight hook rigged beneath a bobber, attach the worm in its midsection. The point of hook slides through the center of the body from one side to the other. Hooking the bait in this manner allows each end of the worm to wiggle. The motion of the bait draws the attention of the fish. This is the best process of how to hook wax worms.

What Are Wax Worms Good For

When using wax worms for fishing, the bait will catch a vast range of species. The species include sunfish, bluegill, trout, and yellow perch. 

Whether you are fishing a trout stream or backyard pond, the bait draws attention when presented. Avoid utilizing hooks that are larger than a size eight. When wax worms fishing, they are used for small fish, and therefore the hook size must coincide appropriately. 

Considering the small stature of the bait, it is not uncommon to fish with more than one waxworm simultaneously. Don’t hesitate to thread two baits on the hook for a more robust presentation. However, purchase more than one pack of waxworms during the visit to the bait store. 

Do Wax Worms Need To Be Fed

Wax worms for fishing do not require feedings despite being stored for extended periods. The worms are placed by the bait shop in plastic containers with wood chips. If rain begins to fall or plans change, keep the bait on the door of the refrigerator.

When fishing with wax worms, the worms have a shelf life of up to three weeks. The answer to how to keep wax worms alive is to place them in the refrigerator. During this time, the bait lies dormant and does not require feeding. Periodically open the lid and remove any worms that have died. Dead wax worms turn from white to black. 

Fishing with dead worms is not nearly as effective as the worm falls easily free of the hook. Also, the lack of movement will further decrease the likelihood of strikes from fish.

Are You Ready To Use Wax Worms On Your Next Freshwater Fishing Trip

Now you know, what are wax worms for fishing. Visit your local tackle shop or order live waxworms online. No need to wonder are wax worms good for fishing. The minuscule bait yields excellent results when fishing for panfish, trout, and perch through Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina. Remember to keep the worms alive and kicking for as long as possible for the best results. Lastly, stock up on a few packs to avoid running out. Fish quickly pick the waxworms free from the hook.