Buying Guide for the Best Muskie Lures
Choosing the right muskie lure can make a significant difference in your fishing success. Muskies are known for their elusive nature and aggressive strikes, so having the right lure can help you attract and catch these impressive fish. When selecting a muskie lure, consider the type of water you'll be fishing in, the time of year, and the behavior of the fish. Here are some key specifications to consider when picking the best muskie lure for your needs.Lure TypeLure type refers to the design and function of the lure. Common types include crankbaits, jerkbaits, bucktails, and topwater lures. Each type has a different action and is suited for different fishing conditions. Crankbaits are great for covering a lot of water quickly, jerkbaits mimic injured prey, bucktails are effective in various conditions, and topwater lures create surface commotion to attract muskies. Choose a lure type based on the fishing environment and the behavior of the muskies you are targeting.
SizeThe size of the lure is important because it needs to match the size of the prey that muskies are feeding on. Lures can range from small to very large. Smaller lures (4-6 inches) are good for early season or when muskies are feeding on smaller prey. Medium-sized lures (7-10 inches) are versatile and can be used in various conditions. Larger lures (over 10 inches) are ideal for targeting trophy muskies or when the fish are feeding on larger prey. Consider the size of the fish you are targeting and the typical prey in the area.
ColorColor is a crucial factor in lure selection as it can influence the visibility and attractiveness of the lure to muskies. Bright colors like chartreuse and orange are effective in murky or stained water, while natural colors like silver, black, and brown work well in clear water. In low light conditions, darker colors can create a better silhouette. Experiment with different colors to see what works best in your fishing environment and adjust based on water clarity and light conditions.
ActionThe action of the lure refers to the movement it makes in the water. Different lures have different actions, such as wobbling, darting, or spinning. The action can attract muskies by mimicking the movement of their natural prey. For example, crankbaits have a wobbling action, jerkbaits have an erratic darting action, and bucktails have a spinning blade that creates flash and vibration. Choose a lure with an action that matches the behavior of the prey in the area and the preferences of the muskies.
DepthThe depth at which a lure runs is important because muskies can be found at different depths depending on the time of year and water conditions. Some lures are designed to run shallow (1-5 feet), while others can reach deeper depths (10-20 feet or more). Shallow-running lures are great for early season or when muskies are feeding near the surface. Deep-running lures are better for mid-summer or when fish are holding in deeper water. Consider the depth at which muskies are likely to be and choose a lure that can reach that depth.
