Baitfish for autolining
In the North Atlantic fisheries, high-quality squid, saury, mackerel, and herring are the most commonly used bait for autolining. Bait is stored frozen and must be properly thawed to achieve the right consistency before use. The size of each bait piece depends on the hook size and type of bait, with around 20–30 kg (45–65 lbs) of bait typically used per 1,000 hooks.
Some baitfish used for hand baiting are too large for the Mustad Autoline baiting machine unless they are split and cut. For the best results, whole baitfish should ideally weigh between 200–250 grams (7–9 ounces) and be about 10 inches long.
While saury, mackerel, squid, and herring are all effective baits, their success can vary depending on the season and target species. It’s always a good idea to consult experienced fishermen who know the local fishing grounds for the best bait choice at any given time.
SquidIllex argentinus
Several species of squid are used as Autoline bait, Argentine shortfin squid is the one used in the Barents Sea.
Pacific SauryColobis saira
In the North Atlantic fisheries, high-quality squid, saury, mackerel, and herring are the most commonly used bait for autolining.
Quality
The quality of the bait fish is essential to succeed. The consistence of the bait is important when you bait up to six hooks per second.
It’s difficult to judge the bait quality before it is thawed. The fish skin should be undamaged, no yellow discolouration along the belly, the eyes bright and the gills should appear fresh and red.
Brine frozen bait is better than blast frozen but is usually more expensive. Brine penetrates and toughens the skin, a process which is particularly successful with mackerel.