Real Vs. Fake Baits : What is the best for a casual freshwater fisher?

Real bait requires proper presentation and that can be difficult. Artificial baits are designed to look right so are easier - but then lack the realism in other ways.

Way to complex a question without a lot more info. But; assuming you are using a light weight spin casting reel/rod and you are fishing a small lake from the shore; hook, worm and bobber would offer the most fun and chance for success. You may want to have a few small (1/16-1/8) lead head jigs and chartreuse colored tails in the tackle basket.

These will catch pan fish and small bass.

If you are looking for bass the Senko worm (5 inch) texas rig is the best. They say live bait produces the best results and biggest fish, and for me its hard to say otherwise. If you are casual you should do a little bit of both, it is fun to mix it up.

Cut bait will catch you some big catfish.

I've always caught more Bass using plastic worms. The biggest Bass I caught was on a "real magic" lure. Love those, can't believe you can't get them anymore.

For speckled perch fishing, minnows worked best. I'm fishing lakes in Florida and those are my favorite two species.

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