How to use a crankbait?
Crankbaits are a popular type of fishing lure that imitate the movement and appearance of baitfish. They are called crankbaits because of the way they are designed to be retrieved through the water. The name "crank" refers to the action of cranking or turning the reel handle to retrieve the lure. The defining feature of crankbaits is they typically have a hard plastic or wooden body with a diving lip or bill at the front. The lip is angled downward, which causes the lure to dive underwater when it is retrieved. The diving lip creates resistance against the water, causing the lure to wobble and swim in a lifelike manner. This action makes crankbaits effective at attracting predatory fish, such as bass, trout, pike, perch and salmon. The original Rapala fishing lure is what we call a crankbait.
What to consider when buying a crankbait?
When considering a purchase of crankbaits, there are a few important factors to keep in mind. Firstly, you should consider the diving depth of the crankbait. Crankbaits come in different diving depths, ranging from shallow to deep-diving models. The diving depth is determined by the size and shape of the lip. Shallow-diving crankbaits work well in shallow water or near the surface, while deep-diving crankbaits are suitable for fishing in deeper waters and trolling from a boat.
Another crucial factor is the type of terrain you'll be fishing in. Crankbaits with a square bill or rounded lip are ideal for fishing around shallow bottoms like rocks, tree stumps and vegetation. These lures have a wider wobbling action and tend to deflect off obstacles, triggering strikes from nearby fish. On the other hand, crankbaits with a longer, narrow bill are designed for fishing deeper structures like drop-offs, ledges or submerged tree's.
The size and colour of the crankbait are also important considerations. The size of the crankbait should match the prey fish present in the water and the size of the fish you are targeting. Generally, larger crankbaits are used for larger fish, while smaller ones are suitable for smaller species. As for colour, it's a matter of experimentation and can vary based on water clarity, light conditions and the prey species in the area. Natural colours like shad or crawfish patterns are often reliable choices, but it can be beneficial to have a variety of colours to test under different circumstances.
Lastly, it's worth considering the quality and durability of the crankbait. Look for well-constructed lures with sturdy hooks and strong split rings. Pay attention to the overall finish and make sure the paint and clear coating are applied evenly. Crankbaits that can withstand the impact of hitting objects and endure the aggressive strikes of fish will give you more confidence and longevity.
In summary, crankbaits are versatile fishing lures designed to imitate baitfish. Their name derives from the cranking action used to retrieve them. When purchasing crankbaits, consider factors such as diving depth, lip design, size, colour and durability. These considerations will help you select the right crankbait for the fishing conditions, target species and your personal preferences as an angler.