For live bait, we've used frogs, caterpillars, and catalba (sp?) worms. For bass, I have a top water lure called a torpedo...my favorite is kind of yellowish green on top with red on the sides and a cream colored bottom. I usually put blood hooks (red hooks) on them and the bass will tear that thing up. I've caught more bass on that torpedo than any worm or other other kind of bait.