By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of how crankbait fishing lures work, the best options for saltwater fishing in the ocean, and how to use them to maximize your catch.
What Are Crankbait Fishing Lures?
Crankbaits are hard-bodied lures designed to resemble small prey, such as baitfish or invertebrates, that predatory fish feed on. Crankbaits feature a lip or bill at the front that causes the lure to dive underwater when retrieved. The size and shape of the lip determine how deep the crankbait will dive and how it moves through the water. Crankbaits come in various designs, including deep-diving, shallow-diving, and lipless models, making them versatile tools for targeting different species in various water depths.
These lures are highly effective in saltwater fishing, especially in the ocean, because of their ability to mimic the swimming patterns of distressed or injured prey, which attracts predatory fish.
Benefits of Using Crankbaits for Saltwater Fishing
Crankbait fishing lures offer several advantages for anglers in saltwater environments, particularly in the ocean. Here’s why they are so effective:
Realistic Action: Crankbaits are designed to mimic the natural movement of prey, such as small fish. This realistic action attracts fish from a distance, especially predatory species.
Variety of Depths: Crankbaits are available in different models that can be used at various depths. Whether fishing in shallow or deep waters, there’s a crankbait that will get the job done.
Wide Range of Species: Crankbaits can be used to target a wide variety of saltwater species, including bass, pike, snapper, tuna, and more.
Easy to Use: For beginners, crankbaits are relatively simple to use. All you need is a consistent retrieve and some patience, making them ideal for those just starting with saltwater fishing.
Versatility: Crankbaits can be used in a variety of fishing environments, including near the shore, around reefs, and in open ocean waters. Their versatility makes them a go-to choice for many saltwater anglers.
Best Crankbait Fishing Lures for Saltwater in the Ocean: A Comparison
Now, let’s compare some of the best crankbait fishing lures for saltwater fishing in the ocean. We’ll look at different types of crankbaits, their features, and which species they are best suited for.
1. Lurebolt Deep-Diving Crankbait
Features:
Depth Range: 10-20 feet
Action: Wide wobble with a deep dive, mimicking a struggling baitfish.
Color Options: Natural shad, silver, and bright chartreuse.
Why It Works:
The Lurebolt Deep-Diving Crankbait is ideal for targeting fish in deeper ocean waters, such as larger bass or snapper. The wide wobble action closely imitates a distressed prey fish trying to swim away, making it irresistible to predatory species. Its deep-diving feature allows it to reach fish that are situated at various depths, making it versatile for different ocean conditions.
Best For:
Target Species: Bass, snapper, grouper, and tuna.
Water Conditions: Deeper parts of the ocean or areas where fish are feeding at mid to deeper depths.
2. Lurebolt Shallow-Diving Crankbait
Features:
Depth Range: 4-8 feet
Action: Tight wobble with quick jerks and erratic movements.
Color Options: Natural baitfish, clear water shad, and fluorescent colors for low-light conditions.
Why It Works:
The Lurebolt Shallow-Diving Crankbait is designed for fishing in shallower parts of the ocean, near reefs, estuaries, or coastal areas. Its tight wobble and erratic movement make it an excellent choice for attracting aggressive predators near the surface. The lure’s smaller size and shallow dive make it great for fish that are closer to the surface or near submerged structures.
Best For:
Target Species: Shallow-water predators like striped bass, redfish, and barracuda.
Water Conditions: Shallow coastal waters, estuaries, and areas near rocky outcrops or submerged reefs.
3. Lurebolt Lipless Crankbait
Features:
Depth Range: Variable (can be fished at any depth)
Action: Fast, erratic movements without the usual wobble of a traditional crankbait.
Color Options: Bright neon colors, as well as natural shad and silver.
Why It Works:
Lipless crankbaits, like the Lurebolt Lipless Crankbait, are versatile lures that can be fished at various depths. They are designed without a diving lip, so they stay close to the surface but offer a fast, erratic retrieve. This makes them perfect for aggressive fish that are hunting along the ocean’s surface or near structures.
Best For:
Target Species: Mahi-mahi, yellowtail, and larger predatory fish.
Water Conditions: Midwater or surface fishing in open ocean or around structures like buoys, floating debris, or wrecks.
4. Lurebolt Jointed Crankbait
Features:
Depth Range: 6-12 feet
Action: Lifelike, jointed body for more realistic movements.
Color Options: Silver, gold, and black with glowing elements for nighttime or low-visibility fishing.
Why It Works:
The Lurebolt Jointed Crankbait’s unique design features a segmented body that produces a more realistic, side-to-side action in the water. This lifelike movement is highly attractive to fish that are chasing after injured prey. Its moderate dive makes it perfect for fishing in areas where fish are likely to be at mid-depths, such as around reefs or near structures.
Best For:
Target Species: Tuna, striped bass, and other mid-depth ocean predators.
Water Conditions: Fishing around deep structures or mid-depth areas in the ocean.
How to Use Crankbait Fishing Lures in Saltwater
Using crankbaits effectively in saltwater fishing involves understanding how to retrieve the lure and when to use it in the water column. Here are some tips for beginners and experienced anglers alike:
1. Choose the Right Depth Range
Based on the species you are targeting and the depth at which they are feeding, select a crankbait that dives to the appropriate level. For deeper water species, like tuna or grouper, a deep-diving crankbait is ideal. For shallower, surface-dwelling fish, like barracuda or bass, a shallow-diving crankbait works best.
2. Retrieve Techniques
Crankbaits are typically retrieved using steady, consistent motion to maintain their wobbling action. However, varying the speed of retrieval can trigger strikes from more aggressive fish. For a more erratic action, try twitching the rod or pausing intermittently to imitate a struggling prey fish.
3. Adjust Based on Conditions
Saltwater conditions can change quickly. Fish behavior may vary based on water temperature, tides, and weather. If fish aren’t responding to a steady retrieve, experiment with faster or slower speeds. If the water is murky, opt for brighter-colored crankbaits to increase visibility.
4. Watch for Strikes
Unlike other lures, crankbaits often generate sudden, hard strikes from fish. Stay alert and keep your line tight while retrieving to detect any bites. Once you feel a strong pull, set the hook firmly.
5. Fishing Structure
Fish often congregate around submerged structures like rocks, wrecks, or reefs. Cast your crankbait near these areas to target fish that are hiding or feeding in these structures. By retrieving your crankbait through these areas, you increase the likelihood of enticing a strike.
Best Practices for Saltwater Crankbait Fishing
Use Proper Tackle: Ensure that your rod and reel setup is suitable for crankbait fishing. A medium-heavy rod with a fast action tip will give you better control and sensitivity when using crankbaits.
Maintain Your Crankbaits: Saltwater environments can cause damage to your lures over time. After each trip, clean your crankbaits thoroughly to prevent salt buildup and corrosion. Check the hooks for wear or damage and replace them when necessary.
Understand the Fish’s Feeding Patterns: Learn about the species you are targeting and their feeding habits. For example, some fish are more active at specific times of the day or during certain tidal conditions. Adjust your fishing schedule to optimize your chances of success.
Conclusion
Crankbait fishing lures are an excellent tool for saltwater fishing in the ocean, offering versatility, realistic action, and the ability to attract a wide range of predatory species. By choosing the right type of crankbait for the conditions and species you are targeting, you can significantly improve your fishing experience.
Whether you are fishing in shallow coastal waters or deeper ocean zones, Lurebolt provides high-quality crankbait fishing lures designed to enhance your success. Visit