hey man, since you are wanting to fish bottom i would recomend fresh shrimp. doesnt have to be live since live shrimp dont usually hang aroundon the bottom. use fresh shrimp from the seafood market. it is a little more expensive than frozen shrimp that you get out of a bait and tackle shop the frozen lacks the smell of fresh. it will cost about 2 dollars more but it is worth it. if you want to try other things besides shrimp use oysters or squid. the whole frozen squid the the walmart usually carries works fin. dont get that squid chunks crap. get the whole squid and cut of chunks. those 3 things have always worked for me. man i hope this helps you out a bit good luck good fishing be safe and remember to share the experience