TOPIC:

What is your preferred minnow for perch?  Shiners or fatheads?

Also, has anyone ever tried to trap minnows in a local creek or pond and try them?  With gas and bait getting costlier, I was thinking of buying a minnow trap. 

Shiners for sure

i've heard of guys on Lake Erie (and I think a few in the Cal river system) doing really well with spikes and waxworms. Same rig but you tip perch flies with the spikes. Or instead of flies,  1" gulp minnows or tubes. I think that'd cut way down on bait cost. Hopefully we get a decent enough perch season where I can try that out

Definitely shiners in the trough between the first two sand bars at MC yesterday. I picked up a 4” spot tail that must half dead on the beach when I was leaving. I think if the perch are around it’s usually so competitive that they really don’t have time to debate on if it’s a shiner or a fat head.

Fatheads n shinners, I usually buy a few dozen of each when the bites on.

Back many years ago (maybe early 80's) we used to sine for the minnows. Went close to the donut and would anchor up just off the beach. Jump over the side with net in hand. Only took a pass or 2 to fill up a 5 gallon bucket. But this is a long time ago. Might still work. 

Anyone ever try a cast net for minnows? I can only assume u can see them in shallow water by the beach no?