How to Store Oak Leaf Grubs

Oak leaf grubs, or crane fly larvae, are popular as bait for fly fishing. Some people argue that the best season to harvest live larvae is in the late fall, but others say the spring is the best time to find larvae. Searching in slow moving creeks under rocks or areas where fallen leaves gather will yield the most larvae. You can also frequently find terrestrial larvae in most people's yards just a few inches below the surface. Storing the larvae until prime fishing season in late spring or early summer requires a little know-how with minimal upkeep.

Things You'll Need

• Oak leaf grubs
• 5-gallon bucket
• Oak leaves

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Collect oak leaf grubs in a 5-gallon bucket from a slow moving stream. Collect enough oak leaves from the same stream to fill the bucket 1/3 to 1/2 full.

   • 2

     Dip the bucket in the water and fill it with a few inches of water. Take the bucket home.

   • 3

     Place the bucket on the cement floor in the basement near an exterior wall.

   • 4

     Monitor the bucket every week or so to ensure there is still water in the bottom.

   • 5

     Add more oak leaves and water accordingly.