Characteristics of Baitfish Retailers in Kentucky: Evidence of a Market to Support a Regional Industry

Abstract

Bait shops in Kentucky and surrounding states rely primarily on large-scale suppliers for baitfish. However, these suppliers provide specific species and sizes of fish. This creates a potential market where small-scale producers could supply bait shops with uncommon species and size combinations of baitfish. This study describes baitfish and bait crayfish marketing parameters in Kentucky by reporting results of a survey that elicited marketing information from local baitfish dealers. The results showed 94% of the respondents were interested in purchasing baitfish from local producers. The types of baitfish wanted by these bait dealers from local suppliers included rosy red minnows (Pimephales promelas), catfish (Ictalurus punctatus), and large golden shiners (Notemigonus crysoleucas). The survey provided evidence of significant niche marketing opportunities in baitfish in states such as Kentucky, where baitfish production is not a major industry.

A Fish of Weedy Waters: Golden Shiner Biology and Culture

“…Similarly, a summer demand for baitfish was identified in Delaware (Ozbay et al ). A study in Kentucky found that bait dealers were interested in purchasing local product (Ogunsanya and Dasgupta ). However, the main market identified was a niche market supplying fish in times of shortages or distinct species and sizes.…”