I estimated that ~1,900,000 ghost shrimp (Neotrypaea californiensis), ~575,000 bloodworms (Glycera dibranchiata), ~600,000 pileworms Nereis virens), and ~1,100,000 lugworms (Perinereis sp.), and are imported annually into California from different parts of the world. I investigated the marine live bait trade in California as a potential introduction pathway for non-indigenous species (NIS). The bloodworms we purchase in the bait shops are dug up in the mud flats of Maine.Several species of marine invertebrates are imported into California for use as live bait in recreational fishing. We find tons of them pulling ghost crab pots around the inland bays. We have polychaetes in our marshes and muddy areas of estuaries in Delaware. They are members of the genus Glycera which is a group of polychaetes (bristle worms) commonly known as bloodworms. Once cut up, they ooze out all the “blood”, and the pieces are easy to handle with your fingers. Some anglers use gloves when handling bloodworms. Most people cut the heads off unless using the whole worm for bait. Then you cut one open and it gets real messy as their blood pumps onto the bait cutting board. Their blood can be seen pumping through their pale skin, hence the name. Id bloodworms are not your cup of tea another popular bait is grass shrimp.īloodworms live up to the name. Also good to feed your aquarium fish, but be careful they are rich in protein. Despite all that they are a very popular bait. There have been occasional allergic reactions to a bloodworm bite. The venom is harmless to humans but creates a stinging sensation much like a bee sting. The venom slows down and kills crustaceans the bloodworms eat.

Their venom is secreted into these jaws by glands. Bloodworms are carnivorous and feed by extending a proboscis with four hollow jaws. However bloodworms are not like your ordinary night crawlers or dirt worms. You just put a piece or the whole worm on the hook. Available at nearly every bait shop.īaiting a hook is simple, just like any other worm.

Bloodworms are a very popular bait for a variety of fish species.

Download blood worms bait