Crankbaits

What is a crankbait?

Crankbaits are a popular type of fishing lure that are designed to imitate the swimming action of small baitfish, crayfish and more. They are typically made of hard plastic or wood, and feature a bill that causes them to dive down into the water when retrieved. Crankbaits are effective in a variety of fishing situations, but are particularly well-suited for use in clear water where the fish can see them from a distance. They are also a good choice when fishing in deeper water or around structure such as rocks, logs or other hard cover. Depending on the type of crankbait, they can be fished at different depths and speeds, making them versatile and adaptable to different fishing conditions. Overall, crankbaits are a go-to choice for many anglers looking to catch a variety of freshwater gamefish, including bass, walleye, and pike.

Billed Crankbaits vs. Lipless Crankbaits

Billed crankbaits have a distinctive bill or lip on the front of the bait that helps it dive to a certain depth and maintain a steady swimming motion. Lipless crankbaits, on the other hand, do not have a bill and vibrate as they are retrieved through the water. Billed crankbaits are best used when fishing in deep water or when targeting fish that are holding near the bottom. Lipless crankbaits are more versatile and can be used in a variety of situations, including shallow and weedy water.

Different styles of crankbait bills, such as square bill, round bill, and coffin bill, are designed for specific diving depths and swimming actions. Square bills create a wider wobble and are great for fishing shallow water or around cover, while coffin bills offer a tighter wiggle and are better suited for deeper water. Understanding the differences between these types of crankbaits and their respective bills can greatly improve a fisherman's chances of success on the water.

Crankbait Diving Depth

One important aspect of crankbaits to consider when fishing is their diving depth. Crankbaits are available in different shapes and sizes, and the diving depth can vary depending on the design of the lure. Some crankbaits are designed to dive shallow, while others can reach depths of 20 feet or more. The diving depth can affect how and when you fish with crankbaits. For instance, if you're fishing in shallow water, a shallow diving crankbait is the ideal choice. Similarly, if you're targeting deep-dwelling fish species, you'll need a crankbait that can dive deeper. Understanding the diving depth of crankbaits is crucial to maximize their effectiveness and catch more fish.

Crankbait Fishing Gear Set-Up

Successful crankbait fishing requires specific gear in addition to the crankbait itself. Firstly, an angler needs a medium to heavy action baitcasting rod that is between six and seven feet long, as well as a high-speed baitcasting reel with a good drag system. This setup allows for accurate casting and retrieval of the lure. It is also essential to have a sturdy line that can handle the weight of the crankbait and the fish that may bite it. Fluorocarbon or braided lines are often preferred because of their durability and sensitivity. When fishing with a crankbait, it is important to consider the depth and speed of the lure, so having a depth finder and a trolling motor can be helpful. With the right gear and technique, an angler can effectively use a crankbait to catch a wide variety of fish species.