Buying Guide for the Best crankbaits
Choosing the right crankbait can significantly improve your fishing experience. Crankbaits are a type of fishing lure designed to mimic the movement of baitfish, making them an effective tool for attracting predatory fish. When selecting a crankbait, it's important to consider various factors such as the type of water you'll be fishing in, the species of fish you're targeting, and the specific conditions of your fishing environment. Understanding the key specifications of crankbaits will help you make an informed decision and increase your chances of a successful catch.Diving DepthDiving depth refers to how deep the crankbait will go when retrieved. This is important because different fish species inhabit different depths. Shallow diving crankbaits (0-5 feet) are ideal for fishing in shallow waters or near the surface. Medium diving crankbaits (5-10 feet) are suitable for mid-depth waters, while deep diving crankbaits (10+ feet) are best for deep waters. To choose the right diving depth, consider the depth at which your target fish are likely to be found.
Body ShapeThe body shape of a crankbait affects its movement and the type of fish it attracts. Round-bodied crankbaits create a wide wobbling action, which is effective for attracting larger, more aggressive fish. Flat-sided crankbaits produce a tighter wobble, making them suitable for colder water or when fish are less active. Choose a body shape based on the behavior of the fish you're targeting and the water conditions.
ColorColor is a crucial factor in crankbait selection as it influences the lure's visibility and attractiveness to fish. Natural colors like silver, gold, and green are effective in clear water and bright conditions, mimicking the appearance of real baitfish. Bright colors like chartreuse, orange, and red are better for murky water or low-light conditions, as they stand out more. Consider the water clarity and light conditions when choosing the color of your crankbait.
SizeThe size of a crankbait can determine the size of the fish it attracts. Smaller crankbaits (1-2 inches) are suitable for targeting smaller fish or when fish are feeding on small bait. Medium-sized crankbaits (2-3 inches) are versatile and can attract a variety of fish sizes. Larger crankbaits (3+ inches) are ideal for targeting bigger fish. Match the size of the crankbait to the size of the fish you are aiming to catch.
Lure ActionLure action refers to the movement pattern of the crankbait in the water. Some crankbaits have a wide, erratic action, while others have a tight, subtle action. Wide action crankbaits are effective in warmer water when fish are more active, while tight action crankbaits are better in colder water or when fish are less aggressive. Choose the lure action based on the water temperature and the activity level of the fish.
RattlesSome crankbaits come with built-in rattles that create noise to attract fish. Rattles can be particularly effective in murky water or low-light conditions where visibility is reduced. They can also be useful in heavily fished areas where fish may be more cautious. If you're fishing in clear water or targeting skittish fish, a silent crankbait might be a better choice. Decide whether to use a crankbait with rattles based on the water clarity and the behavior of the fish.
