Building Live Bait Tank

ok guys, Ha Ha HA. When I was trying to write my message the internet froze up on me and wouldn’t let me continue editing and apparently that is what posted. So Let’s try this again because I am in need of some advice, suggestions, ideas, etc. I own a convenience store/ Live bait shop. I currently have a 400 gallon rounded bottom stainless steel milk tank that I use for Live minnows. I purchased the business last January and the tank came with and it is leaking, the insulation in between the walls is rotted and I am replacing it with a newer milk tank that is also a rounded tank. This tank I am currently using is divided into 3 sections using a wood frame and then it is also squared off on the bottom using a wood frame and plastic netting. So I am wondering how to divide the new tank. Could solid plastic walls be used to divide the sections instead of the wood/ netting? And I am also wondering if it is necessary to frame off the bottom with netting. or can I just let the fish roam freely on the bottom rounded belly of the tank in each of their sections? Whomever divided this tank decided wood was the best option, does anyone know why they chose wood? Or would using plastic be fine? I am wondering if they framed off the bottom just so the fish couldn’t get into the other sections. Would there be any other reason from keeping the fish from off the bottom? Im sure all this doesn’t make sense as it is slightly hard to explain but I did add some pictures and will take more if anyone wants to see anything in particular.

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Good fer U.

Could you post something on how to use jiggin’ raps? That might actually be useful.

Was this a question or a statement?

Maybe its like the field of dreams. Build it and they will come. Never have to buy bait again. Genius!

HEADING TO BATHROOM.

MY BACK IS SORE.

MY HEAD HURTS

Does it have a box fan in it?

I NEED A BEER

Lost something

Gino wrote:

Lost something

Can you give us a hint or is it to special

Nice recovery. I’m not a bait tank guy but there are a few old threads on it that might be worth searching for.

Way to be a good sport! I’m sure someone will chime in with something useful.

I have to admit I would have replied back with a similar comment had I come across the same thing.. I will try searching the threads and patiently wait for someone to chime in on my post! thanks!

Maybe 8efe28aeba5bfd44?Asking for a friend.

Sounds like a good question for your bait supplier.
I would think plexi glass with holes drilled thru would work.

Just guessing here…
Wood was used because it is cheap and easy to work with. I bet it was squared off at the bottom to make it easier for a quick and easy drop in and be done. Trying to match the contour of the tank would take time for very little gain of space. Maybe it was intended to let the sediment settle to the bottom of the tank, but looking at the contraption, I doubt that thought occurred to them.

Plastic would be a better long term solution. Making divider walls would work like you mentioned, just drill some holes in it to allow water/air to move freely. Or buy perforated plastic sheets to make it easier. Take a piece of cardboard and cut it to match the contour of the tank, then use it as a template to cut the plastic sheet. Get some stainless mounting brackets/angles and glue them to the tank (could weld but SS can be tricky for some). Then attach the plastic using Stainless bolts/nuts.

Good Luck!

This ^

Welcome to IDO!

Where is your business?

Wood and netting will be a major issue with that tank. Bacteria will be trapped and grow in the porous material and infest the tank. Look into plastic or stainless dividers. Whatever you use, make sure you can remove it for thorough cleaning. Also, you will need a tank to keep bait during your routine cleanings. Multiple tanks make this easier.

Actually the wood and netting has been providing the bacteria that they feed. They call it good bacteria and it is necessary for minnow survival. I have a water filter that filters out the bad bacteria i.e. ammonia and etc.

I am located in SW Minnesota

Those look like nice musky suckers where is your bait shop located?

Thought I sent that an hour ago but obviously it didn’t go.

Mr Big Eves wrote:

Just guessing here…
Wood was used because it is cheap and easy to work with. I bet it was squared off at the bottom to make it easier for a quick and easy drop in and be done. Trying to match the contour of the tank would take time for very little gain of space. Maybe it was intended to let the sediment settle to the bottom of the tank, but looking at the contraption, I doubt that thought occurred to them.

Plastic would be a better long term solution. Making divider walls would work like you mentioned, just drill some holes in it to allow water/air to move freely. Or buy perforated plastic sheets to make it easier. Take a piece of cardboard and cut it to match the contour of the tank, then use it as a template to cut the plastic sheet. Get some stainless mounting brackets/angles and glue them to the tank (could weld but SS can be tricky for some). Then attach the plastic using Stainless bolts/nuts.

Good Luck!

I am no expert, but my response was similar. Welcome to IDO. Keep us posted on your new venture. And feel free to plug the name and location. I’m sure some here will stop by and introduce themselves.

I am located in Dundee, MN. Super small town surrounded by 3 popular campgrounds, 5 popular lakes and many rivers. I have chubs ranging in small size to what I call Monster size. Crappie and Fathead minnows, night crawlers leeches and wax worms depending on the time of year. I am the only live Bait shop in my area and and I carry a very large inventory of fishing lures and accessories.
Find me on Facebook and check it out, https://www.facebook.com/dundeemn/

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Here is my business card

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Well, I just did a little walking with my finners,

Address
The Gettin’ Place
101 South Main St
Dundee, MN 56131
United States
(507) 468-2798