Ocean fishing is an exciting and rewarding experience, but it can be overwhelming for beginners. The key to success often lies in choosing the right fishing lures and learning how to use them effectively. Among the most versatile and popular lures for ocean fishing are crankbaits. These lures are perfect for beginners due to their ease of use and ability to catch a wide range of fish species. However, choosing the right crankbait and using it correctly is crucial for maximizing your chances of success. This guide will walk you through how to use cheap crankbait fishing lures in the ocean, providing essential tips and techniques to help you get started.
What is a Crankbait?
Crankbaits are hard-bodied lures that are designed to mimic the movement of small baitfish. They feature a bill or lip that allows them to dive to specific depths when retrieved. This unique design gives crankbaits the ability to imitate the swimming motion of distressed prey, which is why they are so effective at attracting predatory fish.
There are several types of crankbaits, and understanding each type is key to using them correctly:
Shallow-Diving Crankbaits: These are designed to dive to depths of 3-5 feet, making them ideal for fishing in shallow waters. They are particularly effective near the shore or in reefs, where fish tend to feed near the surface.
Deep-Diving Crankbaits: These lures are built to dive deeper, reaching depths of 10-12 feet or more. They are perfect for targeting fish species that dwell in deeper waters.
The lip or bill of the crankbait plays a crucial role in determining how deep the lure dives and how it behaves in the water. For beginners, shallow-diving crankbaits are often the best choice since they are easier to control and more forgiving.
Why Crankbaits Are Ideal for Beginners
Crankbaits are often recommended for beginners because they offer several advantages:
Ease of Use: Unlike live bait or complex lures that require specialized knowledge and technique, crankbaits are relatively easy to use. Their built-in action does much of the work for you, requiring only simple casting and retrieval.
Versatility: Crankbaits can be used in a variety of ocean environments. Whether you are fishing in shallow waters near the shore or targeting deeper fish species, there is a crankbait suited for every situation.
Wide Range of Species: Crankbaits are effective at attracting a wide variety of fish, from smaller species like mackerel and bass to larger game fish like snapper and tuna. Their lifelike movement in the water can trigger strikes from many different types of fish.
Affordability: Crankbaits are available at a wide range of price points, and many budget-friendly options are available for beginners. You don’t need to spend a lot to catch fish effectively.
Choosing the Right Cheap Crankbait for Ocean Fishing
When selecting a cheap crankbait for ocean fishing, it’s important to consider a few key factors to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Water Depth: As previously mentioned, crankbaits are designed for different depths. Shallow-diving crankbaits are ideal for fishing near the shoreline, in reefs, or in other shallow areas. Deep-diving crankbaits are better for reaching deeper waters. Be sure to match the depth of your crankbait to the water conditions.
Fish Species: Different fish species are attracted to different types of crankbaits. For example, larger game fish like tuna or cod are often found in deeper waters, so you’ll want to use a deep-diving crankbait. Meanwhile, species like mackerel and bass tend to feed in shallower areas, making shallow-diving crankbaits a better choice.
Color: The color of your crankbait is important because fish are attracted to certain colors depending on the water clarity and the local baitfish species. In clear water, natural colors like silver, gold, and green work well. In murky water, brighter colors like chartreuse, orange, or fluorescent colors can be more effective in attracting fish.
Durability: Since ocean fishing involves exposure to saltwater, you’ll need a crankbait made of durable materials. Look for crankbaits that are made of high-quality plastic, have corrosion-resistant hooks, and can withstand the tough conditions of ocean fishing.
Brand and Price: Just because you’re on a budget doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice quality. Look for reputable brands that offer budget-friendly options, such as Lurebolt.com, which offers a variety of affordable and durable crankbaits specifically designed for ocean fishing.
Techniques for Using Crankbaits in the Ocean
Once you’ve selected the right crankbait, it’s time to focus on how to use it effectively. Here are some key techniques to keep in mind:
Casting and Retrieval Techniques:
Steady Retrieve: A steady retrieve works well when fish are actively hunting. The crankbait will maintain a consistent swimming action that simulates an easy target for predatory fish.
Erratic Retrieve: For more cautious or aggressive fish, try a more erratic retrieve. Use short, quick jerks of the rod to make the crankbait dart unpredictably. This mimics the behavior of a fish in distress, which can trigger predatory fish to strike.
Pausing: Occasionally pausing during your retrieve can simulate a baitfish that is struggling or injured. This can make the lure even more enticing to fish.
Depth Control:
Shallow Waters: If you’re fishing in shallow areas, use a shallow-diving crankbait and cast it towards the shoreline, reefs, or any submerged structures. A steady retrieve will help the crankbait stay near the surface.
Deeper Waters: In deeper areas, use a deep-diving crankbait that will reach the desired depth. Retrieve the lure slowly and steadily to maintain depth and avoid bringing it to the surface too quickly.
Adjusting to Tides and Conditions:
Tides: Fish are more likely to feed during certain tidal conditions. High and low tides can change the movement of fish, so it’s important to fish during the right tidal phases for the best chances of success.
Weather: Overcast days often result in more active fish, as the cloud cover makes fish feel safer in shallow waters. Pay attention to the weather to determine when fish are most likely to be feeding.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
As a beginner, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some mistakes to avoid and tips for improving your technique:
Over-Retrieving: One common mistake is reeling the crankbait too quickly. A fast retrieve may cause the crankbait to rise too quickly and lose its effectiveness. Slow down and adjust your speed depending on the fish species you’re targeting.
Wrong Depth: If you’re fishing in deeper waters, using a shallow-diving crankbait will limit your chances of success. Always choose the right crankbait for the water depth you’re fishing in.
Ignoring Water Conditions: Water clarity and tide conditions play a huge role in fish behavior. Be sure to adjust your fishing strategies based on these factors to increase your chances of success.
Not Matching the Hatch: Make sure your crankbait matches the local prey fish species in size, color, and movement. Fish are more likely to strike if the crankbait looks like a natural food source.
Conclusion
Crankbait fishing is an excellent and easy way for beginners to get started with ocean fishing. With the right selection of crankbaits and the proper techniques, you’ll be able to attract a variety of ocean fish species and enjoy the thrill of a successful catch. Whether you’re fishing in shallow coastal waters or targeting deeper species, there’s a crankbait suited for every situation.
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