How to Build a Tank Cooler

When you're out on the lake fishing, it's easy for your bait fish to overheat and get listless. As a result, when you put them into the water, they don't attract the fish you want as easily. By taking a tank cooler with you, you have a place to keep your bait fish closer to the temperature they are used to, and more lively when you put them on the hook.

Things You'll Need

  • Aerator
  • Purified water
  • Cloth
  • Aerator
  • Cooler
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Instructions

    • 1

      Choose a cooler that is the right size for the bait you want to carry. You may want a 2-gallon cooler if you're traveling by yourself in a small boat. You can also get a 20-gallon cooler if you're going out for a day or two and want to keep your bait cool the whole time.

    • 2

      Clean all dirt and other debris out of the cooler with a cloth and cleaning spray. With a new cooler, you'll want to clean it before using it the first time to get rid of any finish that may still be on the interior.

    • 3

      Fill the cooler one-half to three-fourths full with purified water, depending on the amount of bait you plan to carry. Take the incoming and outgoing hoses from your aerator and connect them to the machine and place the other ends in the water. Gradually add bait fish until you have enough for your trip.