By Capt. Jack Gohmert
Creating your own chum bait can significantly boost your fishing success. Chum, a mixture of fish parts and attractants, draws fish to your spot by creating a feeding frenzy. Making your own chum lets you tailor it to the fish you’re targeting and saves money. Here’s a simple guide to making effective chum and using it for the best results.
Chum is a blend of fish-based materials that attract predatory fish. When placed in water, it forms a scent trail and visual signal that lures fish like snapper, tuna, and sharks. Whether you fish offshore, from a pier, or inshore, chum helps by concentrating fish around your location.
Making chum is straightforward. You’ll need the following:
Tools
• Food processor or meat grinder
• Bucket or container
• Rubber gloves
• Freezer bags (for bulk storage)
Ingredients
• Fish scraps (bait leftovers, carcasses)
• Canned fish (sardines, mackerel, or tuna)
• Fish oil or menhaden oil
• Breadcrumbs or oats (to bulk up the mix)
• Optional: sand or cornmeal (to sink chum faster)
How to Make Chum Bait: Step-by-Step
1. Gather Fish Scraps: Collect leftover fish scraps or use canned fish. Local fish markets are great for sourcing discards.
2. Grind the Ingredients: Use a food processor to grind fish scraps into a paste. For canned fish, mash it along with the oil for a strong scent trail.
3. Add Bulk: Mix in breadcrumbs, oats, or cornmeal to bulk up the chum. These ingredients absorb oils and create a scent cloud. Sand can help sink the chum.
4. Enhance the Scent: Stir in fish oil to intensify the scent, making it travel farther underwater.
5. Pack and Freeze: Freeze large batches in bags. When fishing, break off chunks and toss them into the water.
For offshore fishing, throw small amounts of chum every few minutes to create a steady attractant. For shore or pier fishing, use a chum bag or cage to suspend and slowly release the chum. Adjust the size and consistency of your chum based on the fish species. Larger fish prefer coarse chum with chunks, while smaller fish may respond better to a fine mix that creates a cloud.
Making your own chum is a cost-effective way to improve your fishing. With minimal tools and ingredients, you can craft a bait that attracts fish and turns a slow day into a successful one.