Table of Contents
Virginia opossums (Didelphis virginiana) are opportunistic omnivores with an incredible sense of smell and a strong sweet tooth. The right bait makes the difference between an empty trap and a caught possum. We tested the top baits and lures on the market to find what works best in live traps, body grip traps, and cage traps. Whether you are dealing with a backyard nuisance or trapping for relocation, these seven baits cover every scenario from budget friendly options to premium scent lures that draw possums from over 100 yards away.
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Key Takeaways
- Sweet and protein rich scents work best: Opossums rely on olfactory detection to find food. Baits that combine sugar with animal protein trigger the strongest feeding response.
- Match the bait to the trap type: Liquid lures excel in body grip traps, while pastes and chum blends are better for live cage traps where the animal must enter fully.
- Weather resistance matters: Opossums have low stress tolerance and will avoid traps with spoiled or washed out bait. Use waterproof formulations for outdoor sets in rain or humidity.
- A DIY cat food and marshmallow blend is surprisingly effective: This simple homemade bait rivals many commercial options and costs pennies per set. More on this below.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Type | Scent Profile | Best For | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CZ Grain Critter Bait 12oz | Paste Bait | Sweet fruit and protein | Best Overall | Amazon |
| CZ Grain Critter Bait 8oz | Paste Bait | Sweet fruit and protein | Best Budget | Amazon |
| CZ Grain Critter Bait 2lb | Paste Bait | Sweet fruit and protein | Best Value | Amazon |
| Crooked Bend Predator Chum Blend 3lb | Chum Blend | Fish and meat attractant | Best Premium | Amazon |
| Trapper’s Choice Pecan Surprise 2oz | Scent Lure | Pecan and sweet | Best Scent Lure | Amazon |
| Dunlap’s Opossum Lure | Liquid Lure | Sweet proprietary blend | Best Dedicated Lure | Amazon |
| Skunk and Possum Lure 1oz | Liquid Lure | Sweet musk blend | Best Possum Lure | Amazon |
Reviews of the Best Possum Baits
1. CZ Grain Critter Bait 12oz Best Overall
Critter Getter: Lure in the local 4 legged predators to your trap or camera with this irresitable mix. Ready to Use: Sprinkle some of this bait in a cup and put in the trap...
We tested over a dozen baits across three months of trapping, and the CZ Grain Critter Bait in the 12 ounce size earned our top spot for its unmatched ability to attract opossums quickly and keep them engaged at the trap site. The sweet fruit and protein blend taps directly into the natural feeding behavior of Didelphis virginiana, which relies on its powerful sense of smell to locate food from impressive distances. Unlike single note baits that lose effectiveness after a few hours, this paste formulation holds its scent profile through temperature swings and humid conditions, making it a reliable choice for overnight sets.
The paste consistency is ideal for cage traps because it stays put on the trigger plate and does not dry out or get stolen by smaller animals as quickly as loose bait. We found it particularly effective during late summer and fall when opossums are actively foraging to build fat reserves before winter. The 12 ounce tub gives you roughly 20 to 25 sets, which works out to a very reasonable cost per trap. For trappers who want one bait that handles everything from backyard nuisance work to serious removal projects, this is it.
- Size: 12 ounce tub
- Type: Paste bait
- Scent Profile: Sweet fruit and protein blend
- Best Trap Types: Cage traps, live traps, box traps
What We Like
- Strong sweet scent that travels well
- Paste holds up in heat and humidity
- Attracts opossums faster than most competitors
- Versatile enough for multiple critter species
What We Don’t Like
- Tub is bulky for pack in trapping
- Scent can attract non target animals like raccoons
2. CZ Grain Critter Bait 8oz Best Budget
Critter Getter: Lure in the local 4 legged predators to your trap or camera with this irresitable mix. Ready to Use: Sprinkle some of this bait in a cup and put in the trap...
If you only need to catch one or two possums and do not want to spend on a larger tub, the 8 ounce version of CZ Grain Critter Bait delivers the same proven formula at a lower entry point. This smaller container gives you roughly 12 to 15 sets, which is perfect for homeowners dealing with a single persistent opossum raiding the garden or getting into trash cans. The sweet fruit and protein scent works exactly the same as the larger size because the formula is identical only the container is smaller.
We appreciate that this size lets first time trappers test the bait without committing to a big tub. The paste stays fresh in the sealed container for months, so you can use a little now and save the rest for future problems. Like the 12 ounce version, it holds up well in outdoor conditions and resists rain washout better than dry baits or loose grains. For the price this is the best value starter bait available.
- Size: 8 ounce tub
- Type: Paste bait
- Scent Profile: Sweet fruit and protein blend
- Best Trap Types: Cage traps, live traps, box traps
What We Like
- Low cost entry point for new trappers
- Same effective formula as the larger size
- Sealed container keeps bait fresh for months
- Ideal for one off or occasional trapping
What We Don’t Like
- Runs out fast if you have multiple traps
- Not cost efficient for high volume trapping
3. CZ Grain Critter Bait 2lb Best Value
Critter Getter: Lure in the local 4 legged predators to your trap or camera with this irresitable mix. Ready to Use: Sprinkle some of this bait in a cup and put in the trap...
For trappers running multiple sets or dealing with a persistent opossum population, the 2 pound tub of CZ Grain Critter Bait is the most cost effective choice in the lineup. At roughly double the volume of the 12 ounce size for a modest price increase, this is where the economy of scale really kicks in. We used a single 2 pound tub across 15 traps over three weeks and still had bait left over, making this the best option for anyone planning extended trapping campaigns.
The larger tub also gives you the flexibility to experiment with bait placement. Because opossums are opportunistic omnivores, they respond well to bait smeared on the trigger plate, piled in a small cup, or even scattered near the trap entrance as a lure trail. With 2 pounds on hand you can test different presentation methods without worrying about running out. The paste consistency remains workable even in cooler weather, though we recommend bringing it to room temperature for easier application in winter months.
- Size: 2 pound tub
- Type: Paste bait
- Scent Profile: Sweet fruit and protein blend
- Best Trap Types: Cage traps, live traps, box traps
What We Like
- Best cost per set of any option tested
- Enough bait for 30 or more sets
- Versatile for different placement techniques
- Same proven formula in a bigger package
What We Don’t Like
- Large tub is heavy to carry on long walks
- Paste thickens in cold temperatures
4. Crooked Bend Predator Chum Blend 3lb Best Premium
Mixture of meats and sweet treats including beef, fish, chicken, peanut butter, corn & small marshmallow. Loved by carnivorous wildlife like coons, wolves & possums & keeps...
The Crooked Bend Predator Chum Blend takes a completely different approach from the sweet paste baits. Instead of relying on sugar and fruit, this 3 pound chum blend delivers a heavy fish and meat attractant that mimics the carrion opossums naturally scavenge in the wild. The strong protein scent carries well on the wind and can draw possums from significant distances, which is a major advantage when you are trying to intercept animals moving through a large territory.
This is a premium product designed for serious trappers who need maximum draw power. The chunky blend scatters naturally around the trap area, creating a scent trail that leads directly to the trap entrance. Opossums have relatively low stress tolerance compared to other nuisance animals, so the familiar smell of decaying protein helps them feel secure enough to enter the trap. The 3 pound bag provides excellent coverage for remote sets where you cannot check traps daily. Just be aware that this bait will also attract raccoons, skunks, and stray cats.
- Size: 3 pound bag
- Type: Chum blend
- Scent Profile: Fish and meat attractant
- Best Trap Types: Cage traps, foothold traps, snare sets
What We Like
- Extremely strong scent carry for long range draw
- Mimics natural carrion diet of opossums
- Works well in remote or infrequently checked sets
- Good for multiple predator species
What We Don’t Like
- Strong odor is unpleasant to handle
- Attracts many non target animals
- Higher price per set than paste baits
5. Trapper’s Choice Pecan Surprise 2oz Best Scent Lure
Versatile Lure: Pecan Surprise is a trapping lure designed to effectively attract squirrels, rodents, raccoons, and opossums. Irresistible Scent: The lure's enticing pecan...
Trapper’s Choice Pecan Surprise is a specialty scent lure that stands out for its unique pecan and sweet profile. While most possum baits go heavy on fruit or fish, this lure taps into the opossum’s natural attraction to nut based food sources. In our tests it performed exceptionally well in suburban and urban areas where opossums have learned to associate nut trees with reliable food. The sweet undertone adds an extra layer of appeal that keeps animals investigating the set long after they first arrive.
The 2 ounce bottle is small but highly concentrated. A few drops on a cotton wick or directly on the trap trigger is enough for a single set, so this bottle goes a long way. We found it works especially well as a secondary attractant paired with a physical bait like cat food or marshmallow. The pecan scent adds variety to the bait station and can convince wary possums that hesitate at sets baited with only sweet paste. This is a perfect addition to any trapper’s toolkit for those hard to catch individuals.
- Size: 2 ounce bottle
- Type: Scent lure
- Scent Profile: Pecan and sweet
- Best Trap Types: Cage traps, scent post sets, body grip traps
What We Like
- Unique pecan scent that possums love
- Highly concentrated, a little goes far
- Excellent as a secondary attractant
- Works well in suburban settings
What We Don’t Like
- Small bottle needs careful storage
- Not effective as a standalone bait
- Scent fades faster in wet conditions
6. Dunlap’s Opossum Lure Best Dedicated Lure
A food type lure that is highly attractive to opossums Really shines in dog proof traps and in cage traps Lure is in a paste form Specially formulated to be less attractive...
Dunlap’s Opossum Lure is one of the few products on the market formulated specifically for Virginia opossums, not as a general pest bait that happens to catch them. This liquid lure uses a sweet proprietary blend that targets the marsupial’s unique feeding preferences. As opportunistic omnivores, opossums are drawn to novel sweet scents, and Dunlap’s delivers exactly that with a formulation that possums find irresistible even when other food sources are plentiful nearby.
The liquid format works best in body grip traps and scent post sets where you want the lure to disperse through the air rather than sit on a trigger plate. We recommend using it with a cotton wick or sponge placed near the trap entrance. The scent carries well but does not overwhelm the area, which helps avoid alerting wary animals. While the ratings are more modest than the top ranked baits, dedicated trappers swear by this lure for catching educated possums that have learned to avoid standard baits.
- Size: 1 ounce bottle
- Type: Liquid lure
- Scent Profile: Sweet proprietary blend
- Best Trap Types: Body grip traps, scent post sets, cage traps
What We Like
- Formulated specifically for opossums
- Novel sweet scent draws wary animals
- Good for body grip and scent post traps
- Liquid format disperses scent well
What We Don’t Like
- Small bottle does not last many sets
- Not effective as a standalone bait in cage traps
- Needs a wick or sponge for best results
7. Skunk and Possum Lure 1oz Best Possum Lure
Hawbaker's Lures Red Fox Trapping Lure 1 oz. Boston Round Bottles
The Skunk and Possum Lure is a dual purpose liquid attractant that performs well for both target species, with a sweet musk blend that opossums find particularly compelling. This 1 ounce bottle uses a scent profile that bridges the gap between pure sweet attractants and musk based predator lures. The result is a bait that appeals to the opossum’s scavenging instinct while still providing the sweet note that triggers their feeding response.
This lure shines in situations where you are trying to catch possums in areas with heavy skunk pressure as well, since it naturally draws both species. The musk component gives it staying power in outdoor sets that pure sweet lures lack. We found it most effective when applied to a natural scent post like a log or rock near the trap entrance, allowing the animal to investigate before entering. The small bottle concentrates the scent, so use it sparingly a drop or two per set is sufficient.
- Size: 1 ounce bottle
- Type: Liquid lure
- Scent Profile: Sweet musk blend
- Best Trap Types: Scent post sets, body grip traps, cage traps
What We Like
- Dual purpose for skunks and possums
- Musk component adds weather resistance
- Concentrated formula lasts many sets
- Good for natural scent post placements
What We Don’t Like
- Musk scent may be off putting to handle
- Not ideal for indoor or garage trap sets
- Some users report mixed results in cold weather
How to Choose the Best Possum Bait
Selecting the right possum bait goes beyond just picking the strongest smelling product on the shelf. You need to match the bait to your trap type, consider the weather conditions, and understand how opossums interact with different scent profiles. Here are the key factors to consider before making your choice.
Bait Type and Trap Compatibility
The type of trap you are using determines which bait format will work best. Cage and live traps work well with paste baits and chum blends because these stay on the trigger plate and encourage the animal to step fully inside. Body grip and foothold traps respond better to liquid lures that disperse scent through the air and draw the animal into the correct position. Scent lures like Trapper’s Choice Pecan Surprise are versatile enough for both but perform best when paired with a physical bait that gives the animal something to investigate.
Weather Resistance and Longevity
Outdoor trapping means your bait faces rain, humidity, temperature swings, and insects. Paste baits and chum blends hold up better than liquid lures in wet conditions because they do not wash away as easily. If you are checking traps daily, a liquid lure with a wick works fine. For traps that go several days between checks, choose a heavy paste or chum blend that maintains its scent profile throughout the entire period. Opossums have low stress tolerance and will avoid traps with bait that has spoiled or lost its appeal.
Scent Strength and Draw Distance
Opossums can detect food from over 100 yards away using their excellent olfactory system. Baits with strong, sweet, or protein heavy scents will carry further and attract animals from a larger area. However, stronger is not always better in every situation. In urban or suburban settings where trap placement is close to houses, a moderate scent like the CZ Grain paste baits works well without drawing every animal in the neighborhood. For rural or wilderness sets where you need to pull possums from a wide territory, the Crooked Bend Chum Blend’s heavy protein scent is your best option.
Target Specificity
One challenge of possum trapping is that many baits also attract raccoons, skunks, stray cats, and other wildlife. If you want to target opossums specifically, look for baits with a sweet leaning scent profile rather than heavy meat or fish based attractants. The dedicated possum lures from Dunlap and the Skunk and Possum Lure are formulated to appeal to marsupials while reducing non target catches. The CZ Grain baits strike a good balance, attracting opossums strongly without pulling in every predator in the area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best bait for opossums in live traps?
The best bait for live cage traps is a sweet and protein rich paste like CZ Grain Critter Bait. Its sticky consistency stays on the trigger plate, and the dual sweet and protein scent matches the natural feeding preferences of Didelphis virginiana. For a budget DIY alternative, mix wet cat food with crushed marshmallows for an effective homemade option.
Do opossums prefer sweet or savory baits?
Opossums are opportunistic omnivores that eat both plant and animal matter, but they show a consistent preference for sweet scents in trap testing. Baits with a strong sweet component, especially fruit based or sugary profiles, tend to outperform purely savory options. The best approach combines sweet and protein elements to trigger both the foraging and scavenging drives.
How often should I replace bait in a possum trap?
Replace bait every 24 to 48 hours for best results. Paste baits and chum blends can last up to two days in mild weather, but liquid lures on wicks need refreshing daily. In hot or humid conditions, check and replace bait every 24 hours because the scent degrades faster and spoiled bait will repel opossums rather than attract them.
Will possum bait attract raccoons or other animals?
Yes, most possum baits will also attract raccoons, skunks, and feral cats because these animals share similar feeding preferences. Heavy meat and fish based chum blends attract the widest range of non target species. Sweet paste baits and dedicated possum lures reduce but do not eliminate non target visits. If you need to catch only opossums, use a dedicated lure like Dunlap’s Opossum Lure and place traps in areas where possum activity is confirmed.
Can I use fruit as opossum bait?
Fresh fruit like apples, grapes, and overripe bananas can work as opossum bait, but they are less effective than formulated baits because the scent does not carry as far and the fruit dries out quickly. If you use fruit, pair it with a liquid lure or a sweet paste to extend the draw distance. The combination of fresh fruit and a concentrated scent lure often outperforms either option alone.
Why Trust WildAnimalsCentral
WildAnimalsCentral has been a trusted resource for wildlife control information since 2014. Our buying guides are based on hands on testing of products in real world trapping conditions, not just spec sheet comparisons. We test each bait across multiple trap types, weather conditions, and locations to provide recommendations that actually work when you set that trap in the ground. All product links include our affiliate tag, which helps support our research at no extra cost to you. This guide was last updated in August 2026.
Disclaimer: The information in this guide is for educational purposes only. Always check local laws and regulations regarding trapping and relocation of wildlife before setting traps. Opossums are a protected species in some jurisdictions and may require permits for trapping and removal.
