Buying Guide for the Best crankbaits
Choosing the right crankbait can make a big difference in your fishing experience and success. Crankbaits are a type of fishing lure designed to mimic the movement of prey fish, attracting larger fish to bite. The best crankbait for you depends on factors like the water conditions, the type of fish you’re targeting, and your own fishing style. By understanding the main features of crankbaits, you can select the one that matches your needs and gives you the best chance of a good catch.Diving DepthDiving depth refers to how deep the crankbait will go when you retrieve it through the water. This is important because different types of fish are found at different depths, and water conditions (like clarity or weed cover) also vary. Crankbaits are generally divided into shallow (1-5 feet), medium (5-10 feet), and deep-diving (10+ feet) categories. If you’re fishing in shallow streams or ponds, use a shallow-diving crankbait. For larger lakes or when targeting fish that stay deeper, opt for a medium or deep-diving crankbait. Think about where in the water column you want your lure to be and match the crankbait’s diving range to that.
Body Size and ShapeThe body size and shape of a crankbait influences its action in the water and what kind of prey it mimics. Larger, bulkier crankbaits are typically used to catch bigger fish or to imitate larger baitfish, while smaller, slimmer crankbaits are suitable for smaller fish or when the fish are feeding on small prey. Fat-bodied baits tend to have a wider, more wobbly action, which can attract aggressive fish, whereas slimmer bodies move with a tighter wiggle. Choose the size and shape based on the type of fish you’re after and the prevalent prey in the water you’re fishing.
Lure Color and PatternCrankbaits come in many colors and patterns, which can affect how well they attract fish. Brighter colors and flashy patterns work well in murky or stained water, as they are more visible to fish, while natural or subdued colors are preferred for clear water or when fish are cautious. It’s also common to match the color of your lure to local baitfish or insects. Think about your water conditions and the local environment; if unsure, start with a pattern that resembles the common prey in your fishing spot.
BuoyancyBuoyancy describes whether the crankbait floats, suspends, or sinks when it’s not being reeled. Floating crankbaits are good for fishing near the surface or over underwater structures, while suspending crankbaits are designed to stay at a certain depth when you stop retrieving. Sinking crankbaits will continue to descend, making them useful for reaching the deepest fish but requiring a bit more skill to control. Match the buoyancy to your fishing method – floating for topwater or obstacles, suspending for precise depth targeting, and sinking for deep-water fishing.
Bill (Lip) DesignThe bill, or lip, is the plastic piece at the front of the crankbait that helps determine how deep it dives and how it moves through the water. Longer, downward-angled bills help the bait dive deeper and make big, wide movements; short or square bills usually keep the bait shallow and are great for bouncing through rocky areas or weeds. The bill shape can also affect how the lure reacts when hitting obstacles – rounder bills often deflect more easily, preventing snags. Choose a bill type that matches the depth you want to target and the underwater features of your fishing spot.