Crankbait For Bass Fishing

Crankbaits are a diverse class of hard-bodied fishing lures used to mimic baitfish or crawfish. They are characterized by a diving bill (or "lip") that causes the lure to dive and wobble as it's retrieved through the water.

How to choose the right crankbait

To select the best crankbait for your needs, consider these factors: 

• Depth: Choose a crankbait that dives slightly deeper than the water you are fishing to ensure it contacts the bottom or cover. The crankbait's packaging will specify its diving depth.
• Water temperature:
  • Cold water: Use flat-sided or lipless crankbaits with a tight wobble, as fish are less active.
  • Warm water: Use round-bodied crankbaits with a wider, more aggressive wobble to draw strikes from active fish.
• Water clarity:
  • Clear water: Opt for more natural, translucent, or subtle color patterns that match local forage, such as shad or bluegill.
  • Dirty/stained water: Choose bright or flashy colors, like chartreuse or firetiger, which create contrast and make the bait more visible.
• Sound: Some crankbaits feature internal rattles for sound, while others are silent. In clear water or on heavily pressured lakes, a silent bait can be more effective. Rattling baits work well in stained or muddy water.