Fishing for trout in lakes can be an exhilarating experience, especially when you have the right tools in your tackle box. One of the most effective types of lures for trout fishing is the crankbait. Crankbaits are versatile, easy to use, and can be a great way to attract trout with their erratic action and ability to mimic the movement of small baitfish. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, crankbaits offer a reliable and straightforward option to increase your chances of success in lake fishing.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best crankbait fishing lures for trout in lakes, compare different options, and provide detailed information to help you choose the best one for your fishing style and conditions. We’ll cover various aspects, including types of crankbaits, their effectiveness, and tips for using them. By the end of this article, you’ll be ready to make an informed decision and enhance your fishing experience.

At the end, we’ll also guide you to where you can purchase the best crankbait lures for trout, including high-quality options available at LureBolt.com.

1. What Are Crankbait Fishing Lures?

A crankbait is a type of fishing lure that features a hard body and a bill (or lip) at the front, which helps it dive and swim through the water with an enticing wobbling or rattling action. Crankbaits are often designed to resemble baitfish, making them particularly effective for species like trout, bass, walleye, and pike.

Key Features of Crankbaits:

• Shape and Design: Crankbaits are typically made of hard plastic or wood and have a streamlined shape, allowing them to mimic baitfish in distress. The bill at the front determines how deep the lure dives and how fast it moves.

• Rattling Sound: Many crankbaits feature internal rattles that create vibrations and sound, simulating the movement of injured or struggling prey.

• Variety of Colors: Crankbaits come in various colors to match the local forage or to attract fish under different water conditions. Bright colors like chartreuse are often used in murky waters, while more natural colors like silver or blue work well in clear water.

Crankbaits are popular for their ease of use, as they don’t require intricate techniques or setups. A simple retrieve often provides the action needed to attract fish, making them a great choice for both beginners and experienced anglers.

2. Why Are Crankbaits Effective for Trout in Lakes?

Trout are naturally attracted to moving prey, particularly smaller baitfish, which make up a large portion of their diet in lakes. The erratic motion of a crankbait mimics the behavior of a distressed fish, triggering trout’s predatory instincts. Here’s why crankbaits are so effective for trout fishing in lakes:

1. Realistic Action

Crankbaits are designed to imitate the swimming motion of small fish, which trout actively hunt. The wobble and vibration of a crankbait resemble the natural movement of injured prey, which makes them irresistible to trout, especially in colder months when fish are less active.

2. Versatility

Crankbaits come in various sizes, colors, and diving depths, making them versatile for fishing in different lake conditions. Whether you’re fishing in shallow waters, around submerged rocks, or in deeper lake sections, there’s a crankbait designed for your needs.

3. High Visibility

Crankbaits are often brightly colored and designed to stand out in the water. This makes them easier for trout to spot, especially in murky or stained water. The flash and vibration emitted by crankbaits can help attract fish from further distances.

4. Ease of Use

For beginners, crankbaits are among the easiest lures to use. They require minimal skill beyond a simple cast-and-retrieve technique, making them perfect for teaching kids or first-time anglers how to fish. Plus, they tend to work in both freshwater and saltwater, adding to their versatility.

3. Types of Crankbait Fishing Lures for Trout

Not all crankbaits are the same, and understanding the differences in design can help you select the best one for your fishing situation. Here are the main types of crankbait lures that are particularly effective for trout in lakes:

1. Shallow Diving Crankbaits

Shallow diving crankbaits are designed to stay near the surface of the water, making them ideal for fishing in shallow lake areas. These lures usually dive to depths of 2 to 5 feet and are great for catching trout that are actively feeding near the surface, especially during warmer months when trout tend to congregate in the shallows.

Best For: Shallow lake areas, spring and summer fishing, and when trout are feeding near the surface.

2. Deep Diving Crankbaits

Deep diving crankbaits feature longer, more pronounced bills that allow them to reach depths of 6 to 12 feet or more. These lures are ideal for fishing in deeper parts of lakes, particularly when trout are found in cooler water layers during the hotter months. Deep diving crankbaits are also useful for targeting trout near underwater structures like drop-offs and submerged rocks.

Best For: Deeper lake sections, cold water conditions, and areas with underwater structures.

3. Suspending Crankbaits

Suspending crankbaits are designed to stay at a particular depth when paused, which makes them particularly effective when trout are holding at certain depths in the water column. When you stop retrieving, the crankbait remains in place, imitating a distressed baitfish that’s struggling to swim. These lures can be very effective in both shallow and deep water, depending on the specific model.

Best For: Targeting trout at specific depths and working in cooler water where trout are less active.

4. Lipless Crankbaits

Lipless crankbaits do not have the traditional diving bill. Instead, they rely on their shape and design to create an erratic action in the water. These lures are effective for trolling or casting and retrieving, and they are great for covering large areas of the lake quickly. They also tend to create more vibration, making them especially effective in murky or muddy water.

Best For: Covering large areas quickly, fishing in murky water, and when trout are actively chasing prey.

4. Top Crankbait Fishing Lures for Trout in Lakes: A Comparison

Now that we’ve covered the different types of crankbaits, let’s compare some of the best crankbait fishing lures for trout in lakes. These lures have been selected based on their effectiveness, ease of use, and ability to attract trout.

1. Rapala Original Floater

The Rapala Original Floater is one of the most iconic and versatile crankbaits on the market. This shallow diving crankbait is perfect for trout in lakes, offering a realistic swimming action and a wide range of color options to match local baitfish. The Rapala Original Floater is highly effective in both clear and slightly stained water.

Key Features:

• Shallow diving design (2-4 feet).

• Perfect for calm or slightly stained water.

• Durable, with a wide range of sizes and colors.

2. Yo-Zuri 3DB Series Crankbait

The Yo-Zuri 3DB Series crankbait is a top-tier option that combines high-quality construction with unique features. It features a 3D prism finish that provides superior flash and visibility in the water. The Yo-Zuri crankbait also includes an internal rattle system to attract fish from a distance, making it highly effective for trout fishing in lakes.

Key Features:

• Excellent flash and reflective finish.

• Internal rattle system for added attraction.

• Shallow to medium diving depths (4-8 feet).

3. Strike King KVD 1.5 Squarebill

The Strike King KVD 1.5 Squarebill is a shallow diving crankbait that’s designed to deflect off underwater structures, making it ideal for fishing around rocks, weeds, and submerged logs. Its action is erratic and highly effective at triggering strikes from trout and other predatory fish.

Key Features:

• Shallow diving (3-5 feet).

• Squarebill design for deflecting off structures.

• Ideal for fishing around cover and structure.

4. Rapala Shad Rap

The Rapala Shad Rap is a versatile crankbait that mimics the movement of a shad, which is a primary food source for trout in many lakes. It’s a great option for both shallow and deep water fishing and works well in both still and moving water.

Key Features:

• Available in both shallow and deep diving models.

• Realistic shad-like action.

• Works well in a variety of water conditions.

5. Storm Arashi Silent Squarebill

The Storm Arashi Silent Squarebill is a high-performance crankbait designed for fishing in both shallow and moderate depths. Its unique silent action (without internal rattles) is perfect for times when trout are more cautious and prefer subtle presentations.

Key Features:

• Silent, natural swimming action.

• Shallow to medium diving (2-5 feet).

• Works great in clear water.

5. Tips for Using Crankbaits for Trout in Lakes

1. Match the Hatch

Choose crankbaits that match the color and size of local baitfish. Trout are more likely to strike at lures that resemble their natural prey. For example, use a silver or blue crankbait to mimic shad, or a green or brown crankbait to resemble minnows or crawfish.

2. Vary Your Retrieve Speed

Experiment with different retrieval speeds to find what works best for the trout. Sometimes a slow, steady retrieve is best, while other times, a faster retrieve with pauses can trigger more bites.

3. Fish Near Structures

Trout in lakes often gather near structures such as submerged rocks, drop-offs, and aquatic vegetation. Cast your crankbait near these areas, allowing the lure to dive and deflect off obstacles to attract strikes.

4. Use a Sensitive Rod and Reel

Since crankbait fishing involves feeling the subtle movements of the lure, it’s essential to use a sensitive rod and reel setup. A medium-action rod with a sensitive tip will help you detect bites more effectively.

6. Where to Buy Crankbait Fishing Lures for Trout

For high-quality crankbait fishing lures, including the top-rated options mentioned above, visit LureBolt.com. We offer a wide selection of crankbaits and other fishing lures that are perfect for trout fishing in lakes, ensuring that you have the best tools to succeed on your next fishing trip.

Conclusion

Crankbait fishing lures are an excellent choice for targeting trout in lakes. Their realistic action, versatility, and ease of use make them a go-to option for both beginner and experienced anglers. By understanding the different types of crankbaits and selecting the right ones for your fishing conditions, you’ll increase your chances of landing trout on your next trip.

Ready to get started? Check out LureBolt.com for a wide selection of high-quality crankbaits and other fishing gear to help you achieve fishing success.