Fishing is a fantastic way to introduce kids to the outdoors and teach them valuable skills while having fun. When it comes to teaching kids how to fish in lakes, using the right fishing lures is key to making the experience enjoyable and successful. Crankbait fishing lures are one of the best choices for young anglers because of their ease of use, versatility, and ability to attract a wide range of fish. In this guide, we’ll explore how crankbait fishing lures can be effectively used by kids in lakes, offer step-by-step instructions, and share expert tips for a successful fishing adventure.
What Are Crankbait Fishing Lures?
Crankbait lures are artificial baits designed to imitate the movement and appearance of fish, insects, or other small prey. They are usually made of hard plastic or wood and feature a lip on the front that causes the lure to dive when retrieved. Crankbait lures come in various sizes, colors, and diving depths, making them perfect for different fishing conditions, including freshwater lakes.
The key appeal of crankbaits lies in their ability to mimic natural prey like minnows or small fish, making them irresistible to predatory fish like bass, trout, and pike. For kids, crankbaits are a great choice because they are simple to use and provide plenty of action in the water.
Why Choose Crankbait Lures for Kids?
- Ease of Use
- Crankbait lures are incredibly easy to use for beginners. Kids can simply cast the lure into the water and retrieve it by reeling in at a steady pace. Unlike other lures that may require intricate techniques, crankbaits are forgiving and allow for an easy learning curve.
- Attracts a Variety of Fish
- Crankbaits work well in both shallow and deeper water, making them versatile for lakes with various depths. They can attract a wide range of species, including bass, trout, and bluegill, which are common in many freshwater lakes.
- Effective Action
- The distinctive wobbling or “crank” action of crankbaits is highly effective at triggering predatory fish. This action simulates an injured fish or prey item, enticing fish to strike.
- Fun and Engaging
- Kids love the action that crankbaits provide. Watching the lure dive and wobble through the water and feeling the tug of a fish on the line creates a sense of excitement and accomplishment.
Types of Crankbait Lures
Crankbait lures come in a variety of types, each suited for different conditions. Here’s an overview of the different types of crankbaits you can choose for kids:
- Shallow-Diving Crankbaits
- These lures are designed to dive only a few feet below the surface, making them ideal for fishing in shallow lakes or along the shoreline. They work well for species like bass, sunfish, and bluegill.
- Medium-Diving Crankbaits
- Medium-diving crankbaits reach depths of around 5-8 feet, making them perfect for deeper sections of lakes where fish may be feeding. These are versatile and can be used in a variety of lake conditions.
- Deep-Diving Crankbaits
- For fishing deeper lakes or targeting fish that hang out in deeper waters, deep-diving crankbaits (with a dive depth of 10 feet or more) are the go-to choice. These are great for catching larger species like lake trout and pike.
- Lipless Crankbaits
- Unlike traditional crankbaits with a diving lip, lipless crankbaits have no lip and are often used for faster retrieval. They are great for covering large areas quickly and can be very effective in catching bass and other predatory fish.
How to Use Crankbait Lures for Kids in Lakes
Now that we understand the different types of crankbait lures, let’s dive into how to effectively use them for kids fishing in lakes. The key to success is simplicity, patience, and understanding how the lures work.
1. Select the Right Crankbait for the Fishing Conditions
The first step in using crankbait lures effectively is selecting the right one for the specific conditions you’ll be fishing in. Consider the following factors:
- Water Depth: If you’re fishing in a shallow lake, choose a shallow-diving crankbait. For deeper water, go with a medium- or deep-diving crankbait.
- Fish Species: For bass, try a medium-diving crankbait in natural colors like shad or bluegill. For trout, opt for lighter, smaller crankbaits in brighter colors to catch their attention.
2. Teach Kids How to Cast Properly
Casting is an essential skill for fishing, and while crankbait lures are easy to use, kids still need to learn the basics of casting. Here’s how:
- Hold the Rod: Show kids how to hold the fishing rod with a comfortable grip. They should keep their arm at a 90-degree angle to the rod while holding it with both hands.
- Casting Motion: Teach them to pull the rod back over their shoulder and then release it smoothly, pointing the rod toward the target area in the lake.
- Aim for Structures: Encourage kids to cast near structures like submerged rocks, logs, or weed beds where fish may be hiding.
3. Retrieval Techniques
Retrieving the crankbait is where the action happens, and it’s crucial to teach kids the right technique to get the best results:
- Steady Retrieval: Instruct kids to reel in at a steady pace once the crankbait hits the water. The key is to keep the crankbait moving at a consistent speed to trigger the fish’s predatory instincts.
- Pause and Retrieve: For a fun twist, try pausing occasionally during the retrieval. This will cause the crankbait to briefly stop moving, mimicking an injured or confused fish.
- Speed Variation: Varying the speed of the retrieve can also make a difference. Encourage kids to experiment by reeling in faster or slower to see what works best.
4. Recognizing Fish Strikes
When a fish bites the crankbait, it’s important for kids to recognize the strike. Typically, they will feel a subtle pull or tug on the line. If this happens:
- Wait a Moment: Instruct kids to wait a second or two to ensure the fish has fully taken the bait before setting the hook. Too early of a hook set may cause the fish to spit the lure.
- Hook Set: Teach them to quickly raise the rod tip when they feel a strike, which helps set the hook in the fish’s mouth.
Best Practices for Kids Using Crankbaits
- Use a Light Rod and Reel Combo: For kids, a lightweight spinning rod and reel combo will provide easier control and less fatigue. Make sure the reel has a smooth drag system for easy handling.
- Keep the Line Tight: When reeling in, kids should keep the line taut to avoid slack. This ensures they feel every strike and can react quickly.
- Safety First: Always make sure kids wear a life jacket when fishing from a boat or near deep water. Keep sharp hooks and tackle out of reach to avoid accidents.
- Be Patient: Fishing requires patience, and it’s essential to keep the experience enjoyable. Encourage kids to take breaks, explore the area, and have fun with the process.
Conclusion
Crankbait fishing lures are an excellent choice for introducing kids to the joys of fishing in lakes. Their ease of use, effective action, and ability to catch a variety of fish make them a favorite among both beginners and experienced anglers. By selecting the right crankbait, teaching casting and retrieval techniques, and practicing patience, kids can have an exciting and successful fishing adventure.
For more information on high-quality crankbait lures and other fishing gear, visit lurebolt.com. Happy fishing!