Salmon eggs are one of the most effective baits for catching fish like trout, steelhead and salmon. Their strong scent attracts fish and triggers them to bite. But with so many places to buy salmon eggs today how do you know where to get high-quality salmon eggs for your next fishing trip?
In this complete guide, I’ll walk you through the top places to buy salmon eggs for fishing. I’ll cover local bait shops, online retailers, advantages of fresh vs. preserved eggs, proper storage, and tips for picking the best salmon eggs to catch more fish.
Why Salmon Eggs Make Great Bait
Let’s start with why salmon eggs are so effective for catching fish
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Natural food source – Salmon eggs are a natural prey that fish are instinctively attracted to, The sight and scent triggers a feeding response,
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Nutritional value – Fish can get a lot of nutrients and calories from the oils in salmon eggs, making them a worthwhile bite.
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Bright colors – The vivid orange/pink colors of salmon roe stand out in the water, attracting fish from a distance.
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Strong scent trail – The oils in salmon eggs create a strong scent trail that fish can follow right to your hook.
No wonder salmon use their own eggs to catch fish! Now let’s look at where you can find high-quality salmon eggs for bait.
Buy Salmon Eggs from Local Bait & Tackle Shops
My top recommendation for getting fresh, high-quality salmon eggs is to visit your local bait and tackle shop. These specialty fishing stores are experts at carrying the best bait for catching fish in your area.
The advantages of buying from local bait shops:
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Access to fresh, locally-sourced eggs – Eggs from nearby waters work best.
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Knowledgable staff – They can advise you on the best eggs for your target fish.
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Refrigerated storage – Eggs stay fresh. No need to freeze or preserve yourself.
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Variety – Shops carry eggs in different sizes, colors, and species like coho, chinook, steelhead.
Some excellent local bait shops to check out include Bob’s Bait and Tackle in Seattle, Fisherman’s Paradise in Portland, or The Bait Barn in San Francisco. Look up well-reviewed bait shops in your area.
Purchase Salmon Eggs from Online Retailers
If you can’t find what you need locally, online retailers are another option for buying salmon eggs. Here are some popular online stores for fishing bait:
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Bass Pro Shops – Large selection of cured and fresh salmon eggs.
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Cabela’s – Carries both preserved and fresh salmon roe.
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Amazon – Extensive variety, but read seller reviews.
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FishUSA – Good variety of fishing bait, including salmon eggs.
When ordering salmon eggs online, look for fast shipping times if getting fresh eggs. And be sure to compare prices between sites to get the best deal.
Should You Get Fresh or Preserved Salmon Eggs?
When buying salmon eggs, you’ll come across both fresh untreated eggs and preserved cured eggs. So which is better for catching fish? Here’s an overview of the pros and cons:
Fresh Salmon Eggs
Pros: More natural scent, durable, higher fish attraction.
Cons: More expensive, need refrigeration, short shelf life.
Preserved Cured Eggs
Pros: Long shelf life, affordable, convenient.
Cons: Less natural scent, lower fish attraction.
In general, fresh eggs work better but have a shorter shelf life. Cured eggs last longer in storage but may be less attractive to fish. Consider when and how you’ll be fishing to decide which is better for you.
Proper Storage for Maximum Freshness
To get the most out of your salmon eggs, proper storage is crucial. Here are some tips:
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Keep eggs cool – refrigerate at 34-40°F.
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Use an airtight container – Prevents moisture loss.
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Freeze for long-term storage – Keeps eggs fresh for months.
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Avoid direct contact with ice – Causes eggs to break down faster.
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Don’t mix old and new eggs – Old eggs accelerate spoilage.
Following these guidelines will ensure your eggs stay fresh and effective for catching fish!
Tips for Picking the Best Salmon Eggs
When shopping for salmon eggs, keep these tips in mind to select the best bait:
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Choose bright vivid colors – Orange, pink, or red eggs attract fish best.
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Look for eggs with an oily sheen – Provides strong scent to draw in fish.
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Pick appropriately sized eggs – Match bait to the fish you’re targeting.
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Look for firm texture – Soft or mushy eggs won’t stay on the hook well.
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Ask the experts – Get advice from bait shop staff on the best eggs for your needs.
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Read reviews – For online purchases, see what other anglers say about the eggs.
Follow these tips and you’ll have irresistible salmon eggs that catch you more fish!
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I collect my own salmon eggs?
It’s possible to collect your own salmon eggs if you legally catch a female salmon with ripe eggs. However, this often isn’t feasible for most anglers. Purchasing eggs is easier.
How long do salmon eggs last in the fridge?
Fresh raw salmon eggs typically last 5-7 days in the fridge if kept between 34-40°F. Take eggs out 1-2 days before fishing to allow them to cure.
What’s the best way to preserve salmon eggs yourself?
To preserve fresh eggs for long-term storage, cure them yourself using a salt and borax mixture. Or simply freeze raw eggs in an airtight container for up to 4-6 months.
Are there any restrictions on collecting or using salmon eggs?
Yes, be sure to check your local fish and game regulations. Many areas prohibit harvesting eggs from wild salmon without proper permits.
What size salmon eggs work best?
Use smaller eggs like steelhead or coho eggs for trout and panfish. Larger chinook salmon eggs work well for salmon, steelhead, striped bass. Match the size to your target fish.
Conclusion
Hopefully this guide has helped shed some light on where to find high-quality salmon eggs for your next fishing adventure. Visiting a trusted local bait shop or ordering from a reputable online retailer are your best bets for getting fresh bait.
Be sure to store your eggs properly to maximize freshness. And pick vibrant colored eggs with an oily sheen to attract the most fish. Use the right size eggs for your target fish species.
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