Bream are a prime example. When prawns are on the move around the dark of the moon, prawns are obviously the main course for a few days. Yet suddenly bream will go off the bight for no apparent reason. This is when I have found trying a variety of baits can suddenly do the trick of winning them back as they have naturally changed their diet. Other important aspects of bait fishing are presentation, quality and freshness.
Live bait is always the most natural and effective method of baitfishing.
Fish give little second thought to taking a well presented live bait, against a strip of dead bait, especially if it has been prepackaged. Live worms and nippers, yellowtail and slimy mackerel are among the best of baits to use for a wide variety of species. If live bait is not available, the next best choice is freshly prepared bait. Either catch it yourself or buy it fresh from a Co op, but ensure its freshness. Salted down slabs of most members of the tuna family, give the angler a strong scented bait that is durable and well accepted by a variety of species.