What's the best way to keep leeches alive for prolonged periods of time.....as in from now until October? I've tried just about everything with pretty good success but I just need to get them thru until October. Anyone got a real good way?
laker taker
05-09-2006, 03:36 PM
I found if you got them early enough in the year they should last all season if the water is kept cold and they don't get any sun light. If you get them after they spawn, they will die in a month or so max! As long as they are pre-spawn change the water every other day until it no longer gets dirty. Always replace the water with the same temperature they came out of or they will get shocked. If the water gets slimy, but not dirty, use a small net and scoop that stuff out without dumping all the water. If possible, add a small aquarium bubbler to keep the water well oxygenated. This whole set up can only work if you have a special bait/beer fridge. I found my wife wasn't to keen on having my leeches bubbling with dinner, why I'm not sure. If they get skinny, as they should in about July or August, throw in a piece of fresh beef liver for a day or so and see if they attach to it. If not, chuck it or it will stink and just make the water all bloody. I had some huge buggers two years ago that made it from Easter to almost the end of Sept until my fridge died and I had to toss them. Good luck leechsitting............
NAV165
05-09-2006, 04:30 PM
At what water temperature do you start using leeches?