It was designed for the situation you are talking about. I have used it with varying results. Make sure the package is fresh as the Gulp baits seem to stiffen up and lose a lot of action as they age. I have opened packages where the baits were rock hard even though still in the juice. But if you can't bring bait I would definitely bring some Gulp leeches/grubs/minnows.

Depends on conditions. The gulp baits will sure work and may be as effective as natural baits if the fish are aggressive and starved. In your circumstances, I often pack a light weight minnow trap and a half-loaf of bread. Drop the trap in the shallows with some bread crumbs and you will likely have more minnows than the bait shop the first morning you awake on site.

I get a trap that breaks in half. One piece slides into the other with the bread smashed in the bottom. I can pack my socks and undies in it in my pack. That way it literally takes NO extra space. Just don't leave the bread in your tent or backpack if you are in bear country.

for me yes, but that is saltwater