Tie a raw chicken leg to a nylon cord, and dip the bait among the rocks, letting it soak for a few minutes. Crawfish will grab hold of the tough skin and stay attached if you lift the bait slowly up off the bottom. Scoop them into a small dip net, but be quick; crawfish usually let go as soon as they break the surface.

What is the best bait for crawfish?

The best bait for crawfish is fish such as shiners, herring, sunfish, pogies and gizzard shad. Some fishermen prefer to use cut up salmon heads and other oily fish they can get their hands on. You can get these from the locals easily enough or make them yourself.

How do you trap crawfish in a lake?

To catch a crawfish, wade into the water and look for rocks that seem likely to be hiding a crawfish. Then very slowly reach your hand into the water and gently lift up the rock. If you lift it too quickly it can startle the crawfish and stir up mud which obstructs your vision, allowing the crawfish to scurry away.