DMF – The Three Letters You Want on Your Bait Fridge

• FTR Industry Wire
• April 16, 2025

Like fishers need bait, retailers need bait partners. And DMF Bait is the name to know. Here’s why.

Fishing is more than a hobby—it’s a national passion. An identity. A way of life. With over 54 million anglers across the U.S., fishing ranks as the second most popular hobby in the country. One more time because it bears repeating: the #2 hobby in the entirety of America. In 2016 alone, U.S. fishers spent more than $46 billion on fishing-related expenses. And one item makes it to the register more often than any other fishing product: live bait.

From local shops to big retailers, live bait is proven to get people in the door. Anglers make stops specifically for it—especially options like Nightcrawlers, Red Worms, Garlic Nightcrawlers, and Meal Worms, which everybody knows to look for. Ask a pro or a beginner what kind of worms they’re looking for and they’re going to tell you the same few options.

But here’s what many retailers don’t realize: selling live bait doesn’t just get anglers what they want—it boosts sales all over the store. Retailers who carry bait often see increases in purchases across snacks, drinks, and other fishing gear. These fishers are out for many hours at a time, and few leave unprepared. And you don’t need to be near a lake to see the benefits—many anglers buy bait close to home.

So, the opportunity is there. The next question is: how do you get started? And with who? It’s a big decision, and one that brings with it a lot of questions. We get it! So, we make it as easy as we can.

DMF Bait is the largest live bait distributor in the U.S., and a trusted name since 1977. A lot of fishermen look for our yellow cup. We’re family-owned and operated, and DMF distributes over 200 million worms a year. Plus, our packaging is environmentally friendly and designed with retail in mind—so it’s easy to display, handle, and store. Simple.

And DMF simplifies the process with a single point of contact, fast and reliable distribution, and good old fashioned customer service. Whether you’re a chain or a small store, working with DMF means no guesswork, no wasted product, and no missed opportunity.

Take a quick look at our best sellers:

• Nightcrawlers – The one everybody knows.
• Red Worms – Versatile and effective for panfish.
• Garlic Nightcrawlers – The one everybody knows with a garlicy twist.
• Meal Worms – Our fastest growing bait, popular amongst freshwater fishers

So how about it? Call 248-243-7606 or visit dmfbait.com/wholesale-portal to learn more about working with DMF Bait. Like every great angler needs a good worm, every great retailer needs a better bait partner. We hope to hear from you.