It really depends what your fishing for. In most situations the best bait is what you can get fresh locally. Any recommendations on a general purpose bait would depend on where your fishing and what your likely to catch. Ask some locals
Berkley Senko Worms internally weighted hook strait through the middle with a texas rig hook. They are completely weedless just slowly bounce it off the bottom it is by favorite lure of all time for bass.
We really need to know what you're fishing for. Nightcrawlers, red worms, meal worms, wax worms, earthworms, crickets, shiners, minnows, and shad are all good live bait that can catch a variety of fish. You mentioned dough balls, which are good for catfish. Magic Bait makes a variety of stink bait formed into balls that work well for cats. You can also go with good old cut up hot dogs or chicken livers. Best of luck to you!