When it comes to ocean fishing, bass fishing can be particularly exciting and rewarding, especially when targeting large, predatory species like striped bass and sea bass. One of the most effective tools for these types of fish is the crankbait fishing lure. These lures are designed to mimic the movement of baitfish and other prey in the ocean, making them irresistible to bass and other predators. Not only are they highly effective, but durable crankbait fishing lures are built to withstand the tough conditions of ocean waters.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the world of crankbait fishing lures, focusing on their importance for bass fishing in the ocean. We’ll cover everything from their design, advantages, and setup, to expert techniques for using them effectively. If you’re aiming to up your game in ocean bass fishing, understanding how to select and use crankbaits is crucial.
At LureBolt, we specialize in providing top-tier fishing lures, including crankbaits, jigs, minnows, and softbaits. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, our collection of high-quality lures will ensure you have the best gear for any fishing adventure. Let’s dive into the details of durable crankbait fishing lures for bass in the ocean!
What is a Crankbait Fishing Lure?
A crankbait fishing lure is a type of artificial fishing bait designed to imitate the movements of injured or fleeing fish. These lures feature a hard body with a lip at the front that causes the bait to dive and move erratically when retrieved. The action and vibration mimic prey that bass and other predatory fish find irresistible.
Key Components of a Crankbait Lure:
- Lip or Bill: The lip is the most important feature of the crankbait, as it helps the lure dive and gives it its distinctive wobbling or erratic motion.
- Body Shape: Crankbait bodies come in various shapes and sizes, typically designed to mimic the profile of small fish, worms, or insects.
- Hooks: Crankbaits are typically equipped with either a single or treble hook to catch fish once they strike.
Crankbaits can be categorized into two types: shallow diving and deep diving. Shallow diving crankbaits stay near the surface, while deep diving crankbaits reach greater depths, making them suitable for targeting bass at different water levels.
Why Crankbait Lures Are Perfect for Bass Fishing in the Ocean
When targeting bass in the ocean, using the right fishing lure is essential for success. Here’s why crankbait lures are a top choice for bass fishing in ocean waters:
1. Realistic Action
Crankbaits are designed to mimic the movement of real prey, making them highly effective in attracting fish. The wobbling or jerking action they produce mimics a distressed fish trying to escape, which triggers a predatory response in bass. This makes crankbaits particularly useful for striped bass and other predatory fish species.
2. Versatility in Different Ocean Conditions
Crankbait lures are highly versatile and can be used in a variety of ocean conditions. Whether you’re fishing near the surface or at deeper depths, there’s a crankbait designed to suit the conditions. Shallow diving crankbaits are perfect for fishing near the surface, while deep-diving crankbaits work well when targeting bass at greater depths.
3. Great for Covering Large Areas
One of the key advantages of crankbaits is their ability to cover large areas of water quickly. The consistent action and vibration make it easy for bass to detect the lure from a distance. This is particularly useful when fishing in expansive ocean areas where bass may be spread out.
4. Attractiveness to Bass
Bass are highly visual hunters, and crankbaits work effectively because they mimic the movement and flash of baitfish. The combination of realistic action and vibrant colors ensures that bass are attracted to the lure, even in murky or deep waters. This makes crankbaits an excellent tool for targeting striped bass, sea bass, and other predatory fish in the ocean.
Top Rated Durable Crankbait Fishing Lures for Bass in the Ocean
Now that we’ve discussed why crankbait fishing lures are ideal for bass fishing in the ocean, let’s take a look at some of the top-rated crankbait lures for ocean bass fishing.
1. LureBolt Custom Crankbait
Key Features:
- Durable Construction: Made with high-quality materials designed to withstand the tough conditions of ocean fishing.
- Realistic Action: Features a deep lip and designed to create an erratic, natural movement that mimics injured prey.
- Variety of Colors: Available in a wide range of natural and bright colors to match the local prey species.
Why It’s Great for Ocean Bass Fishing:
The LureBolt Custom Crankbait is a versatile choice for bass fishing in the ocean. Its reflective finish mimics the flash of baitfish, and its durable body ensures long-lasting performance, even in harsh saltwater environments.
2. Rapala Shad Rap
Key Features:
- Shallow and Deep Options: Available in different sizes with varying diving depths, allowing anglers to target bass at different levels.
- Classic Shad Design: Designed to mimic the profile and movement of a shad, a primary food source for many bass species.
- Durable and Sharp Hooks: Equipped with premium hooks to secure the fish once they strike.
Why It’s Great for Ocean Bass Fishing:
The Rapala Shad Rap is a classic, well-known crankbait that is perfect for ocean bass fishing. Its deep-diving action and realistic shad imitation make it ideal for bass hunting near the ocean’s deeper areas. The lure’s effectiveness in both shallow and deep water conditions makes it a go-to choice for versatile bass fishing.
3. Strike King Pro-Model 6XD Crankbait
Key Features:
- Deep-Diving Action: Designed to reach depths of 10 to 16 feet, perfect for targeting bass in deeper ocean waters.
- Exaggerated Wiggle: The 6XD’s exaggerated wiggle imitates a struggling prey fish, triggering predatory instincts in bass.
- Wide Range of Colors: Comes in a variety of colors to match the local baitfish or attract fish with bright, eye-catching hues.
Why It’s Great for Ocean Bass Fishing:
The Strike King Pro-Model 6XD Crankbait is ideal for targeting deeper bass in the ocean. Its deep-diving design and vibrant color options make it a versatile choice for various ocean conditions, ensuring anglers have success both in shallow and deep waters.
4. Berkley Flicker Shad
Key Features:
- Realistic Swimming Action: Designed to mimic the erratic movement of a shad, a favorite food source for bass.
- Durable Construction: Built to endure the tough conditions of saltwater fishing without losing effectiveness.
- Variety of Sizes and Colors: Available in multiple sizes and natural baitfish colors.
Why It’s Great for Ocean Bass Fishing:
The Berkley Flicker Shad is a fantastic option for ocean bass fishing. Its realistic swimming action and durable construction make it perfect for fishing in the ocean’s challenging conditions. Whether you’re targeting striped bass or sea bass, the Flicker Shad delivers consistent results.
How to Use Crankbait Fishing Lures for Bass in the Ocean
Using crankbait fishing lures effectively requires the right setup, techniques, and knowledge of bass behavior. Here’s how to maximize your chances of success when using crankbaits for ocean bass fishing:
1. Choose the Right Crankbait for the Depth
Crankbaits are available in different types: shallow-diving, medium-diving, and deep-diving. To select the right crankbait for your fishing conditions, consider the depth where the bass are located:
- Shallow Diving Crankbaits: Best for fishing near the surface or in shallow waters.
- Medium Diving Crankbaits: Effective for fishing in mid-depth waters.
- Deep Diving Crankbaits: Ideal for targeting bass in deeper ocean waters.
2. Set Up the Right Rod and Reel
When using crankbaits, it’s essential to use the right rod and reel combination:
- Rod: A medium to medium-heavy spinning rod (7 to 8 feet) is ideal for casting crankbaits. It should provide enough sensitivity to feel the fish’s strike while offering power to reel in large bass.
- Reel: A spinning reel with a gear ratio of 5:1 to 6:1 is ideal for crankbait fishing, as it allows for smooth and controlled retrieval.
- Line: Use 10 to 15 lb monofilament or fluorocarbon line. Fluorocarbon is more abrasion-resistant and invisible in the water, making it an excellent choice for saltwater fishing.
3. Cast and Retrieve the Crankbait
Once you’ve set up your gear, it’s time to cast the crankbait:
- Cast the Crankbait: Cast the crankbait toward the area where you believe bass are lurking, such as near drop-offs, submerged structures, or rocky points.
- Retrieve with Steady Action: Retrieve the crankbait with a steady, consistent pace. Vary the retrieve speed depending on how active the fish are. Try using a “stop-and-go” technique, where you pause occasionally during the retrieve to mimic an injured fish.
4. Set the Hook
When you feel a tug or resistance on the line, it’s time to set the hook. Quickly jerk the rod upward to ensure the hook is properly set in the bass’s mouth.
Conclusion
Durable crankbait fishing lures are an essential tool for bass fishing in the ocean. Their ability to mimic the movement of baitfish and create an irresistible vibration makes them perfect for attracting predatory fish like striped bass and sea bass. By choosing the right crankbait, setting up your rod and reel, and using the proper retrieve techniques, you can increase your chances of landing a big catch in the ocean.
At LureBolt, we offer a wide range of fishing lures, including crankbaits, designed for durability and optimal performance in both freshwater and saltwater fishing environments. Our lures are perfect for anglers of all skill levels, whether you’re fishing from a boat or the shore.
For more information and to explore our full collection of fishing lures, visit us at lurebolt.com.
Happy fishing!