Bait Pump - are they worth all the effort?

[Muzzer]

I am thinking on buying a bait pump, as I want to try and get my own worms. There are less and less bait diggers out there as they tend to get more money digging holes on building sites. What is best - large or small bore. Any suggestions on how to use it would be great. Or will I be waisting my money and effort?

[gullyworm]

Only good for blacks and yellows mate as you cant pump blow lug, but if its blacks your after then ive found them great once you get the knack.
I know people who swear by the metal narrow ones but ive always done ok with my wide plastic one.
Hope this helps,happy pumping

[big guy]

it does take a while to get used to them and they tend to cause the worm to burst more than with a spade, so only really for making blacks imo.

i also find it twists and strains your back when pulling the handle up, but no worse than the back pain you get from digging.

i've got a metal alvey one, it seems to do the job. maybe try and get one cheap of ebay or something incase you can't get on with it.

[cod head]

they need to have some sort of lube veggie oil is great for this,
you need to let the pump do the work and not too much pressure,
on the plates as this will make it hard to pull the plunger up.

[big guy]

i think these things really are a case of practise makes perfect.

just don't expect to go out and get over 100 worms on your first sesh.

[Omahayank]

Why not make one??? PVC pipe, toy rubber ball that fits snugly, threadded rod, nuts, fender washers, 1/2 hours time...
I've seen plans before, but, do you think I could find them for you now...
Good luck and let us now your results.