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. In some cases, particularly drifting for flathead, I have found salted mackerel a much more productive bait than fresh slabs.
Presentation is the key to successful baitfishing.
If it doesn't present well, you may put doubt in the mind of your adversary. Smaller fish will jump in while the bigger fish will stand off. It is obvious that fish are more likely to find you well presented bait among a scented trail of offerings. Keep your mixes fine and consistent with what you are using for bait. The reel should be treated purely as the means with which you regain the line won by the rod.