Fishbites baits consist of nearly odorless (to us), highly water-soluble ingredients. This is a radical idea in the catfishing realm that might represent one the biggest advancements in catfish baits in decades. Originally designed as an alternative to live- and deadbaits for saltwater applications, Fishbites now offers Yeh Monn! Freshwater Catfish Bait, a 13-inch long by 5/8-inch wide ribbon of bait that anglers cut into desired lengths and shapes.

Yeh Monn! flavors include crayfish, liver, shad, and worm, and Saltwater Fishbites products contain additional flavors such as shrimp, clam, and crab. Fishbites are “physically right” for cats, too. Strips come in thin slices, so they offer a natural flapping motion underwater, particularly in current. The bait is attached to a fine, light mesh backing, so the strips stay on the hook well and are durable. These biodegradable baits hold good potential as cutbait alternatives.

In addition to being biodegradable, these third-generation softbaits are highly appealing to catfish on both an olfactory and a visual level. So long as development dollars continue to support further research into the realm of natural lure alternatives, the potential for newer, even more desirable catfish softbaits is high.