A cooler with an aerator works for short trips.

Yes, for a few hours. I’ve done it. Throw in a battery-powered aerator, drop the bait in, and you’re good for a morning on the lake. The cooler keeps the water from warming up too fast, and the aerator keeps oxygen flowing.

But it’s not a long-term solution. Cooler lids seal tight, which traps ammonia from fish waste. You’ll need to change the water every few hours or the bait suffocates. Also, coolers are deep and narrow — poor surface area for gas exchange. A proper bait bucket with a wide opening and built-in aerator does this better.

If you’re just fishing a Saturday, go for it. If you’re keeping bait overnight or for multiple days, spend the $20 on a dedicated aerated bucket.

Future you (and the bait) will thank you.