Choosing the Right Crankbait
Crankbaits are a staple in every bass angler’s tackle box, offering versatility and effectiveness across various fishing conditions. Whether targeting largemouth, smallmouth, or spotted bass, selecting the right crank baits for bass is crucial. Different crankbaits perform at various depths, and understanding their features helps in making informed decisions.
Types of Crankbaits for Bass
The size and angle of a crankbait’s bill dictate its diving depth. Longer, more angled bills reach greater depths, ideal for deep-water fishing, while shorter bills suit shallow water applications.
Shallow Divers
- Depth Range: 1–5 feet
- Best Used In: Shallow waters, near docks, laydowns, and vegetation edges.
- Characteristics: Short, angled lips that dive quickly but stay near the surface.
- When to Use: Warmer water temperatures or when bass are actively feeding near the surface.
Medium Divers
- Depth Range: 6–12 feet
- Best Used In: Transitional zones, drop-offs, and submerged structures like brush piles.
- Characteristics: Medium-length lips to reach mid-range depths.
- When to Use: Spring and fall when bass move between shallow and deep water.
Deep Divers
- Depth Range: 15+ feet
- Best Used In: Deep reservoirs, ledges, and offshore humps.
- Characteristics: Long, pronounced lips that dig into the water for significant depths.
- When to Use: Summer when bass seek cooler, deeper water.
Lipless Crankbaits
- Depth Range: Variable; depends on retrieve speed.
- Best Used In: Open water, over submerged vegetation, or around suspended bass.
- Characteristics: No diving lip; relies on a tight wobble and rattles.
- When to Use: Colder months when bass are sluggish.
Buoyancy Considerations
Crankbaits come in floating, suspending, and sinking varieties. Floating models work well in shallow waters, suspending crankbaits are ideal for colder water, and sinking crankbaits are suited for deep structures.
Size and Color Selection
Matching the crankbait’s size and color to the local forage increases effectiveness.
Size:
- Small (1.5–2 inches): Best for finesse situations.
- Medium (2.5–3 inches): Versatile choice.
- Large (3.5+ inches): Effective for big bass.
Color:
- Natural Colors: Shad, bluegill, crawfish for clear water.
- Bright Colors: Chartreuse, fire tiger for murky water.
- Translucent Colors: Subtle presentations in clear water.
How to Use a Crankbait Effectively
Fishing a crankbait requires the right technique and understanding of bass behavior.
- Match the Depth: Use a crankbait suited to the bass’ depth.
- Experiment with Retrieve Speeds:
- Slow Retrieve: Mimics sluggish prey in cold water.
- Medium Retrieve: Maintains a consistent wobble.
- Stop-and-Go: Creates erratic action triggering reaction strikes.
- Deflect Off Structure: Bouncing off rocks or logs provokes aggressive strikes.
- Use the Right Equipment:
- Rod: Medium-power, moderate-action for sensitivity.
- Reel: Low-gear ratio (5.1:1 to 6.4:1) for control.
- Line: Fluorocarbon for low visibility and sinking ability.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Crankbait
- Water Temperature:
- Below 55°F: Tighter wobbling lipless crankbaits.
- Above 70°F: Wide-wobbling crankbaits with exaggerated action.
- Depth: Match bait’s diving range to bass holding zones.
- Forage Type: Crawfish imitations near rocky bottoms; shad patterns for open water.
- Water Clarity:
- Clear Water: Natural, subtle colors.
- Murky Water: Bright or flashy colors for visibility.
Recommended Crank baits for Bass
| Crankbait Model | Type | Best Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Rapala DT Series | Medium Diver | Clear water, transitional zones |
| Strike King 6XD | Deep Diver | Offshore humps, ledges |
| Bandit 200 | Medium Diver | Submerged structures |
| Bill Lewis Rat-L-Trap | Lipless Crankbait | Over vegetation, suspended bass |
| Norman Little N | Shallow Diver | Rocky banks, docks |
Pro Tips for Fishing a Crankbait
- Vary Your Retrieval: Try different speeds and patterns.
- Add Scent or Attractant: Enhances appeal in pressured waters.
- Seasonal Patterns: Adjust lure choice based on the season.
- Hook Maintenance: Keep hooks sharp for better hook-ups.
Fishing Techniques for Deep Waters
- Slow Rolling Retrieval: Maintain depth for longer periods.
- Bumping Structure: Trigger strikes by mimicking injured prey.
- Depth Control: Use sonar to adjust lure depth accurately.
Optimizing Colors and Lure Selection
- Clear Water Strategies: Use natural patterns to mimic baitfish.
- Murky Water Solutions: Bright colors improve visibility.
- Seasonal Adjustments: Crawfish patterns in spring, shad in summer.
Best Times and Locations for Crankbait Fishing
- Early Morning and Late Afternoon: Bass are more active.
- Deep Points and Ledges: Prime feeding and resting areas.
- Transition Zones: Connect shallow flats to deeper channels.
Final Thoughts on Crank baits for Bass
Successfully using crankbaits involves understanding lure selection, retrieval techniques, and adapting to changing fishing conditions. Choosing the appropriate crankbait for different depths, water clarity, and seasonal patterns enhances an angler’s chances of success. By fine-tuning retrieval speed, selecting the right color, and employing effective techniques such as deflecting off structure, anglers can consistently trigger strikes. Whether fishing in shallow waters, transitional zones, or deep reservoirs, crankbaits provide a versatile and indispensable tool for targeting bass.
