View Full Version : What is the best way to store leaches?
Just got back from fishing the long weekend and I have a bunch of leaches left. What is the best way to preserve them for future fishing trips? Thanks, kuip
PWaldow123
05-28-2001, 08:12 PM
Kuip, the best way to store them is in a fridge at about 42 degrees. Just change the water every 2 days and they will last at least a month at this temp.
Paul
Juls_WI
05-28-2001, 11:17 PM
On a side note: Do not use tap water when you change the water. The chlorine in the water will kill them.
Juls
Walleye Guy
05-29-2001, 06:38 AM
I saw a product on a local fishing program that resembles worm bedding. It also prevents mold from developing, which could kill the leaches. I am not sure what it was called, but with little to no attention it claims leaches could be kept alive for months. If anyone knows the name of this product, I could sure use it.
The Real Walleye Guy (Registered!)
05-29-2001, 07:01 AM
A small cooler with the built in ice pack in the lid works great on the lake and fits in the fridge.Also easy to clean.
Gilligan
05-29-2001, 12:59 PM
Pre refrigerate your water so that the new water will be cold enough.
fishin_fool
05-29-2001, 02:10 PM
In the summer I always buy leeches by the pound and just keep them in the built in cooler in the boat. Normally I add a block of ice every three to four days and change the water every few days.. They seem to live for ever. Like Juls said though, dont use city water. use well water or lake water.
JeffC
05-29-2001, 04:38 PM
The product your looking for is called a leech tamer. There advertised on www.driftbag.com. Keep water at 40-42 degrees changing it every three days and in these bags and there good for over a year. Depending on the size of leeches you purchase, they will get smaller by the months if they don't eat.
Pitts
05-29-2001, 06:07 PM
Juls I purchased 2 LBs of super jumbos in june and kept them in the fridge in city water at about 35F only changed it about every month. I think there were about 1/2 lb left in sept. and I kept them this way until fishing opening the next spring in May changing the water once a month with city water that is chlorinated. Our city water is not softened just injected with flouride and chlorine maybe that is the difference but the chlorine did not harm the leeches also I always change the water in my winter bait with tap water and the crappies and fathead minnows do not seem to be harmed by the chlorine either.
Just my observation and .02 worth.
This may not be true for all city water so caution is advised and maybe try it out on just a few to see.
Pitts