How to Make a Night Crawler Shocker

Nightcrawlers, also known as earthworms, are a favorite form of bait for fisherman. There are a wide variety of ways to obtain nightcrawlers; they can easily be bought at any fishing store or dug out of the ground. However, for the more adventurous fisherman, the "shock method" is a unique option. This method involves using electrically charged metal rods to send a shock into the ground, bringing worms to the surface, where they can be collected without difficulty.

Grasp the end of your electrical cord that has no plug, and pull it into two strands about 13 inches long.

Strip the plastic covering carefully from each strand with pliers. Continue until about 3 inches of wire are exposed.

Wrap one exposed wire tightly around one end each of the metal rods at least five times.

Wrap approximately 8 inches of duct tape around the wire-wrapped part of each rod to ensure that the wires will not slip.

Cover the entire wire-wrapped area, including the top part of the metal rod, with electrical tape.

Place each metal rod about 8 inches into the ground with 10 to 12 inches of space between them.

Plug the electrical cord into a socket, and be careful not to touch the rods. Wait for worms to come out of the ground.

Unplug the cord and collect the worms.

References

• "Popular Mechanics": "Digging" Worms with Electricity
• U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission: Electric "Worm Getter" Worm Probe Recalled By Six Retailers

Show More

Tips

This technique works best when the area in use has been recently watered.

There is some debate about whether this method is actually effective. And the shock may significantly shorten the lifespan of the nightcrawlers.

Show More

Warnings

As with anything having to do with electricity, be careful. Never touch the rods or the wires when they are plugged in. Never touch or reach between the rods when the cord is plugged in.

Show More