Fishing with European Nightcrawlers: Why ENCs are One of The Best Worms for Fishing Bait

If you fish you know that having the right bait can make all the difference in having a successful time on the water. While there are many types of live bait out there, one that has become increasingly popular as the best worm for fresh water fishing is the European Nightcrawler.

These wiggly worms have become a favorite among fishermen due to their hardiness, size, active nature, and affordability. 

In this article, we'll explore why European Nightcrawlers are one of the best worms for fishing bait and how to use and store them for your next day out on the water.

What are European Nightcrawlers

European Nightcrawlers - also known as Eisenia Hortensis, ENCs, and Euros - are earthworms that originate from Europe but have made their way across the globe.

ENCs are different from regular earthworms like Red Wigglers and Indian blue worms, as they are larger and more active, making them an enticing snack for fish.

Why European Nightcrawlers are One of the Best Worms for Fishing

European nightcrawlers are considered one of the best worms for fishing due to their large size, durability, and lively nature on a fish hook. These characteristics give them the ability to attract a variety of fish species, including trout, bass, walleye, catfish, and panfish such as bluegill and crappie. In addition, ENCs are easy to find, affordable, and can even be grown at home.

Here are a few more reasons why European Nightcrawlers are one of the best fishing worms you can buy:

• Hardy and Versatile: European Nightcrawlers are very hardy worms that can withstand a wide range of temperature and water conditions. Whether you're fishing in the heat of summer or during the colder months, these worms can handle a diverse range of conditions and are an excellent choice.

• Large and In Charge: Their size makes them stand out among other worms like Red Wigglers, making them easily visible and attractive to fish. The squirming motion of European Nightcrawlers in the water attracts fish and entices them to bite.

• Easy to Keep: You can buy European Nightcrawlers in bulk and keep them alive and healthy until your next fishing trip. All you need is a container with some soil or bedding material and a temperature range of 40-80 degrees Fahrenheit. 

• Affordable and Accessible: Not only are European Nightcrawlers affordable, but they are also widely available to buy online, in bait shops, and even in some large retail stores. 

• They Breed and Compost Well Too: In addition to being one of the best fishing worms, ENCs are also great composting worms and are easy to breed at home. You can keep them in a worm compost bin or plain old Rubbermaid tub, feeding them fruit and vegetable scraps. Given the right conditions ENCs will breed quickly and your population can double in size in 3-4 months (so no more trips to the bait store!). ENCs also do a great job creating worm castings you can use in your garden or with houseplants.

How to Use European Nightcrawlers for Fishing

Buying or Raising: You have two options when it comes to obtaining European Nightcrawlers for fishing bait. You can either buy them online or in a bait shop or raise them yourself. As mentioned above, creating a worm bin and feeding them kitchen scraps and other organic materials is an easy way to raise your own worms.

Storing Them As Bait: Once you have your worms, you'll need to prepare them for use as bait. Keep them in a container with soil or other bedding material like moist peat moss and store them in a temperature range of 40-80 degrees Fahrenheit.

Pro tip: Store the worms in a refrigerator with a temperature 40-45 degrees Fahrenheit. This will slow the worms activity and they will live longer in your container.

Summary: Why Nightcrawlers are One of The Best Fishing Worms

European Nightcrawlers are an excellent choice for fishing bait due to their hardiness, size, activity level, and affordability. They can survive in a wide range of temperatures and water conditions, making them a versatile option for anglers in different environments. 

Additionally, their large size and active nature make them attractive to fish, increasing your chances of a successful catch.

Whether you choose to buy them or raise your own, European Nightcrawlers are a great bait option for your next fishing trip!