Crankbaits are a type of fishing lure that work by mimicking the appearance and movements of prey fish. These lures typically have a lip-like projection on their front, which causes them to dive and wobble when retrieved through the water. As they move, crankbaits create vibrations and produce flashes of light, attracting the attention of predatory fish. This combination of realistic action and visual stimulation can trigger their natural instinct to strike, as they mistake the crankbait for an easy meal. Additionally, crankbaits come in various colors and sizes, allowing anglers to match the lure to specific fishing conditions and the prey fish in that particular environment. Overall, crankbaits are effective tools for catching fish because they convincingly imitate the behavior of prey, enticing predatory fish to strike and providing anglers with successful catches.
The Anatomy of a Crankbait
Crankbaits are a popular choice among anglers for their versatility and effectiveness in catching fish. Understanding the anatomy of a crankbait can help improve your fishing success. Let’s take a closer look at the various components that make up a crankbait.
1. Body
The body of a crankbait is its main structure, typically made of hard plastic or wood. It is responsible for mimicking the shape and movement of a baitfish, enticing predatory fish to strike. Crankbait bodies come in various shapes, sizes, and profiles, each designed to imitate a specific prey species.
Some crankbait bodies have a more streamlined shape, allowing for faster retrieves and deeper dives, while others have a bulkier design that creates a wider wobbling action, ideal for slower retrieves in shallow waters. The choice of body shape will depend on the fishing conditions and the target fish species.
2. Diving Lip
The diving lip, also known as a bill or bib, is a key feature of a crankbait. It is typically made of plastic and extends from the front of the body at an angle. The size, shape, and angle of the diving lip determine the depth and action of the crankbait.
A larger diving lip will make the crankbait dive deeper, while a smaller lip will keep it closer to the surface. The angle of the lip affects the lure’s swimming action, with a steeper angle creating a more aggressive wobble and a shallower angle producing a subtler movement.
3. Hooks
- Crankbaits are usually equipped with two or three treble hooks attached to the underside of the body. These hooks are designed to catch the fish when it strikes the lure.
- The size and strength of the hooks can vary depending on the size of the crankbait and the target fish species. It is important to choose hooks that are sharp and durable to ensure a higher hook-up and landing ratio.
- In some cases, anglers may choose to replace the stock hooks with aftermarket ones to better suit their preferences or fishing conditions.
4. Weighting System
Many crankbaits are equipped with a weighting system that helps achieve the desired diving depth and action. The weighting can be in the form of internal metal balls or inserts placed strategically within the body.
These weights shift during the retrieve, causing the crankbait to dive, rise, or suspend at different depths and angles. The positioning and number of weights can be adjusted to modify the crankbait’s action and enhance its performance in specific fishing scenarios.
5. Paint and Finishes
The visual appeal of a crankbait is often enhanced by its paint and finishes. Manufacturers apply various color patterns, scales, and reflective coatings to mimic the natural appearance of baitfish and attract predatory fish.
Popular finishes include realistic shad patterns, vibrant chartreuse or fire tiger designs, and reflective holographic or foil finishes. The paint and finishes not only make the crankbait visually appealing but also help it stand out and trigger strikes in different water conditions.
6. Line Attachment Point
The line attachment point, usually a small eyelet or split ring located on the top of the crankbait, is where you tie your fishing line. It is important to ensure that the line is securely attached to the crankbait to prevent it from coming loose during a fish fight.
Some crankbaits may also feature additional line attachment points on the diving lip or body, allowing for different rigging options and adjusting the lure’s action.
7. Rattles
Many crankbaits are equipped with built-in rattles, small metal or glass chambers that create noise and vibrations when the lure is retrieved. These rattles mimic the sounds of baitfish and can attract fish in murky or low-light conditions.
The loudness and frequency of the rattle can vary, and some crankbaits offer interchangeable or adjustable rattles, allowing anglers to experiment with different sound profiles and customize their presentation.
8. Additional Features
- Some crankbaits may have additional features, such as interchangeable or weighted hooks, removable diving lips, or built-in scent chambers to further entice fish.
- Anglers can also modify crankbaits by adding adhesive eyes, soft plastic trailers, or modifying the paint job to create a unique and personalized lure.
Understanding the anatomy of a crankbait is essential for selecting the right lure for your fishing needs and maximizing your chances of success on the water. Experiment with different designs, sizes, and actions to find the crankbaits that work best for the target fish species and fishing conditions you encounter.
Understanding Crankbait Dive Depths
When it comes to crankbaits, understanding their dive depths can be crucial to your fishing success. The dive depth of a crankbait refers to how deep it will run when retrieved at a steady speed. This knowledge allows you to select the right crankbait for specific underwater conditions and target fish that are holding at different depths.
There are several factors that influence the dive depth of a crankbait, including its design, lip shape and size, and the line diameter you use. By understanding these factors, you can make more informed decisions on which crankbaits to use in different situations.
The Design of the Crankbait
The design of a crankbait plays a significant role in determining its dive depth. Crankbaits with a smaller and rounder body tend to dive shallower, while those with a larger and more elongated body tend to dive deeper. The weight distribution and buoyancy of the crankbait also affect how it behaves underwater.
The Shape and Size of the Lip
The lip of a crankbait is responsible for its diving action. Crankbaits with a larger and steeper lip angle will dive deeper than those with a smaller and shallower lip angle. The size and shape of the lip also affect the crankbait’s stability and ability to deflect off underwater structures.
The Line Diameter
The diameter of the fishing line you use can influence the dive depth of your crankbait. Thicker lines create more drag and resistance, causing the crankbait to run shallower. On the other hand, using a thinner line reduces drag and allows the crankbait to reach deeper depths. Consider the line diameter when selecting your crankbaits to achieve the desired dive depth.
Experimentation and Observation
- Experiment with different crankbaits to see how they perform in various water conditions and depths. Keep a log of your observations to remember which crankbaits dive deeper or shallower.
- Pay attention to the retrieval speed. Faster retrieval speeds can cause the crankbait to rise to shallower depths, while slower speeds can help it dive deeper.
- Take note of the crankbait’s action. Some crankbaits have a more aggressive wobbling action, which can make them dive deeper. Others may have a tighter and more subtle action, resulting in a shallower dive.
By understanding the factors that affect crankbait dive depths and through experimentation and observation, you can develop a deep understanding of how different crankbaits perform in different situations. This knowledge will make you a more effective angler and increase your chances of landing that trophy fish.
Different Types of Crankbaits
When it comes to crankbaits, there are several different types to choose from. Each type has its own unique characteristics that make it suitable for specific fishing situations. Understanding the different types of crankbaits will help you select the right one for your fishing needs.
Diving Crankbaits
Diving crankbaits are designed to dive underwater when you retrieve them. They have a curved or angled bill in the front that helps them dive to a certain depth. The depth at which a diving crankbait can reach depends on the length of its bill. If you need to fish in deeper water, opt for a crankbait with a longer bill. On the other hand, if you’re fishing in shallow water, a crankbait with a shorter bill will do the trick.
Diving crankbaits are effective for targeting fish that are holding at specific depths. By adjusting your retrieve speed, you can control the depth at which the crankbait operates. This allows you to cover a wide range of depths and increase your chances of catching fish.
Lipless Crankbaits
Lipless crankbaits, as the name suggests, do not have a diving bill. Instead, they have a flat or concave face that creates a vibrating action when retrieved. These crankbaits are excellent for covering large areas quickly, as they sink rapidly and can be retrieved at different speeds.
Lipless crankbaits are particularly effective in situations where fish are feeding near the surface or in shallow water. The vibrating action creates a lot of commotion, attracting fish and triggering strikes. Additionally, the absence of a diving bill allows lipless crankbaits to be fished in vegetation without getting snagged.
Squarebill Crankbaits
Squarebill crankbaits are known for their shallow diving capabilities and their ability to deflect off cover. They have a square-shaped bill that causes them to bounce off objects like rocks and stumps, creating an erratic action that mimics a wounded baitfish. This erratic action triggers predatory instincts in fish and entices them to strike.
These crankbaits excel in fishing situations where there is a lot of cover, such as fallen trees or submerged vegetation. The squarebill design allows them to navigate through tight spaces without getting hung up. They are versatile lures that can be retrieved at various speeds, making them suitable for both slow and fast presentations.
Choosing the Right Crankbait Color for Different Conditions
When it comes to crankbait fishing, choosing the right color can make all the difference in your success. Different conditions require different colors, as fish react differently to varying water clarity, weather, and light conditions. Here is a breakdown of how to choose the right crankbait color for different conditions:
1. Water Clarity
Water clarity plays a significant role in determining the color of crankbait that will be most effective. In clear water, it is best to use natural or translucent colors such as shad or silver to mimic the prey fish in the area. The natural colors will appear more realistic and attract fish to strike. In murky or stained water, it is best to use brighter colors like chartreuse or firetiger. These vibrant colors will be more visible to fish and can provoke strikes even in low visibility conditions.
2. Weather Conditions
- If it is a sunny day with clear skies, it is best to use bright and flashy colors like chrome or gold. The sunlight will reflect off the crankbait, making it more visible to fish and attracting their attention.
- On overcast or cloudy days, it is ideal to use darker colors like black or dark purple. These colors create a silhouette against the sky and can be more enticing to fish.
- During periods of rain, it is recommended to use metallic or metallic flakes colors like blue or silver. The raindrops create ripples and distortions in the water, causing the metallic crankbaits to stand out and sparkle, catching the fish’s attention.
3. Light Conditions
Light conditions also play a role in choosing the right crankbait color. In low light conditions, such as early morning or late evening, it is best to use dark-colored crankbaits. These dark colors create a contrast against the dimly lit surroundings and are more likely to catch a fish’s attention.
During midday or in brightly lit areas, it is best to use brightly colored crankbaits. The intense light will make the vibrant colors stand out, enhancing their visibility to fish. Colors like orange, chartreuse, or yellow are great choices for these conditions.
4. Seasonal Factors
Seasonal factors can also influence the ideal crankbait color. As the seasons change, the prey fish in the water also change in appearance. Matching the crankbait color to the prevalent prey fish during each season can increase your chances of success.
| Season | Ideal Crankbait Colors |
|---|---|
| Spring | Light colors like white or pearl to imitate baitfish or crayfish |
| Summer | Natural colors like green or brown to mimic vegetation or crawfish |
| Fall | Warming colors like red or orange to represent prey fish preparing for winter |
| Winter | Dark colors like black or blue to imitate slow-moving prey in cold water |
By adjusting your crankbait color based on the season, you can effectively mimic the prevalent prey fish and entice more bites from hungry fish.
5. Choosing the Right Depth
When using crankbaits to target bass, it is crucial to choose the right depth for your lures. Bass tend to hang out at different depths depending on the time of year, water temperature, and other factors. By understanding these patterns and adjusting your lure depth accordingly, you can greatly increase your chances of success.
Here are some techniques for choosing the right depth when using crankbaits to target bass:
- Research and Observation: Before heading out to fish, do your research and observe the conditions of the water. Look for signs of bass activity such as baitfish, feeding activity, or vegetation. This will give you a good starting point for choosing the right depth.
- Experimentation: When you first start fishing with crankbaits, it’s important to experiment with different depths to see what works best. Start by casting near the shoreline and slowly working your way out. Try different depths and retrieve speeds until you start getting bites.
- Utilize Depth Finders: Depth finders are valuable tools that can help you determine the depth at which bass are located. These devices use sonar technology to give you a clear picture of what’s happening underwater. By identifying the depth where the bass are holding, you can adjust your crankbait accordingly.
- Vary Your Retrieve: Sometimes bass may be holding at different depths throughout the water column. To effectively target these fish, try varying your retrieve. Start by counting down your crankbait to a certain depth and then experiment with different retrieval speeds and pauses. This allows you to cover the entire water column and increase your chances of enticing a strike.
- Pay Attention to Feedback: Once you start catching bass, pay close attention to the depth at which they are biting. If you consistently catch fish at a specific depth, it’s a strong indication that this is the right depth for that particular day. Keep adjusting your crankbait to target that depth and replicate your success.
Tips for Modifying Crankbaits to Enhance Performance
Modifying crankbaits can be a great way to enhance their performance and increase your chances of landing a big catch. Here are some tips to help you get started:
1. Changing the Hooks
One of the easiest and most effective modifications you can make to a crankbait is to change the hooks. Upgrading to sharper and stronger hooks can significantly increase your hook-up ratios. Look for hooks that are designed specifically for crankbaits, as they are often wider-gapped to accommodate the larger mouths of predatory fish.
- Choose hooks with a high carbon content for increased strength and sharpness.
- Consider using treble hooks with different sizes to match the size of the crankbait and the target species.
- Ensure that the hooks are properly aligned and securely attached to the crankbait to avoid any potential issues with the lure’s action.
2. Adding Weight
In certain situations, adding weight to a crankbait can help you achieve better casting distance or increase the sinking rate. This modification is particularly useful when fishing in deeper waters or during windy conditions.
- Attach small weights onto the belly or tail of the crankbait using split rings or small snap-on weights.
- Experiment with different weights to find the right balance that allows the crankbait to maintain its desired action.
3. Adjusting the Lip Angle
The lip of a crankbait determines its diving depth and action. By adjusting the lip angle, you can control how deep the lure will dive and how it will move through the water.
- To make a crankbait dive deeper, gently bend the lip downward.
- If you want the lure to have a more erratic and wide-wobbling action, bend the lip slightly upward.
- Be careful not to bend the lip too much, as it could affect the overall performance and balance of the lure.
4. Changing the Color
Changing the color of your crankbait can sometimes make a significant difference in attracting fish. It allows you to match the baitfish or the surroundings better, increasing the lure’s effectiveness.
- Consider the water clarity and the prevalent forage species when selecting a color for your crankbait.
- Experiment with different colors and patterns to determine what works best in different fishing conditions.
5. Tuning the Action
Properly tuning the action of a crankbait can vastly improve its performance and make it more appealing to fish. The goal is to ensure that the lure moves in a realistic and enticing manner.
- Check the alignment of the hooks and the lip to make sure they are straight and centered.
- Adjust the eyelet position by gently bending it to fine-tune the bait’s swimming action.
- Experiment with different retrieves to find the most effective way to make the crankbait come alive in the water.
6. Adding Rattles
Adding rattles to a crankbait can create a sound that can attract fish from afar and draw their attention to your lure. The noise produced by the rattles can mimic a distressed or injured baitfish, triggering the predatory instincts of fish.
There are different types of rattles available, including internal and external rattles:
| Internal Rattles | External Rattles |
|---|---|
| Can be inserted into the body cavity of the crankbait | Can be attached to the split rings or hook hangers of the lure |
| Less likely to affect the action of the crankbait | May slightly affect the action of the crankbait |
| Requires modification of the crankbait | Can be easily added or removed |
Depending on the fish species and the fishing conditions, you can experiment with different types of rattles to see which one works best for you.
By implementing these modifications, you can fine-tune your crankbaits to match the preferences of your target fish species and increase your chances of hooking more fish. Remember to always test the modified crankbaits in the water to ensure they maintain their desired action and effectiveness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Fishing with Crankbaits
7. Using the Wrong Color
Choosing the right color crankbait is crucial for attracting fish and increasing your chances of a successful catch. However, many anglers make the mistake of using the wrong color, leading to less bites and missed opportunities.
When selecting a crankbait color, it’s important to consider the current conditions and the type of fish you are targeting. In general, brighter colors like chartreuse or firetiger are effective in murky or stained water where visibility is limited. On the other hand, natural colors like brown or green work well in clear water.
While there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to crankbait colors, it’s always a good idea to experiment and see what works best in your specific fishing location. Pay attention to the reactions of the fish and adjust your color choices accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions about How Crankbaits Work
What is a crankbait?
A crankbait is a type of fishing lure that imitates a swimming prey fish. It usually has a hard, plastic body with one or two treble hooks attached.
How do crankbaits work?
Crankbaits work by mimicking the movements and appearance of a wounded or active fish. When retrieved, the angler’s rod movement causes the crankbait to wiggle and dive, attracting predatory fish.
What are the different types of crankbaits?
There are various types of crankbaits designed for different fishing scenarios. Lipless crankbaits have a flat head and can be used to fish in shallow or weedy areas, while deep diving crankbaits have a bill on the front to reach greater depths.
How do I choose the right crankbait?
When choosing a crankbait, consider the water depth, fishing conditions, and the type of fish you are targeting. Additionally, match the bait’s size, color, and diving depth to the natural prey of the fish species you want to catch.
What are the common techniques for fishing with crankbaits?
One common technique is the “stop-and-go,” where you retrieve the crankbait and periodically pause to allow it to suspend, mimicking an injured fish. Another technique is “cranking,” which involves a steady retrieve to cover a large area quickly.
Thanks for Reading!
We hope this article has helped you understand how crankbaits work and how to choose and fish with them effectively. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced angler, crankbaits can be a valuable addition to your tackle box. Get out there and give them a try on your next fishing adventure. Come back soon for more fishing tips and advice!