For beginners, ocean fishing can feel overwhelming. With so many options for fishing lures and techniques, how do you choose the right one? Among the best choices for newcomers is the crankbait. Crankbaits are effective, versatile, and often surprisingly affordable, making them a great option for those just starting out. This article will guide you through the essentials of using cheap crankbait fishing lures in the ocean, from choosing the right model to employing the most effective techniques. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to make the most of your crankbait and increase your chances of success on the water.
What is a Crankbait?
Before we dive into the specifics of using crankbaits in the ocean, it’s important to first understand what a crankbait is and how it works.
A crankbait is a hard-bodied fishing lure designed to mimic the movement of prey fish. What sets crankbaits apart from other lures is their ability to dive into the water when retrieved, thanks to a specially designed lip. This lip helps the crankbait to sink to a specific depth and creates a realistic swimming action that attracts predatory fish.
Shallow-Diving Crankbaits: These lures are designed to dive to a depth of around 3 to 5 feet and are ideal for shallow waters like reefs, sandbars, or the coastline. They are effective in attracting fish species that swim near the surface.
Deep-Diving Crankbaits: These lures are designed to reach deeper waters, typically 6 to 12 feet or more, which makes them perfect for targeting fish that dwell deeper in the ocean, like cod, bass, or snapper.
Understanding how crankbaits work will help you make informed decisions about which one to use and how to retrieve it for the best results.
Why Crankbaits Are Ideal for Beginners
For those just starting in ocean fishing, crankbaits are an excellent choice. Here’s why:
Versatility: Crankbaits can be used in a variety of ocean environments. Whether you’re fishing near the shore, in shallow reefs, or in deeper waters, there’s a crankbait designed for every condition.
Ease of Use: Crankbaits are simple to use, even for beginners. The action of the lure does most of the work for you, requiring only basic casting and retrieval techniques.
Wide Range of Species: Crankbaits are effective at attracting a wide variety of fish species, from bass to mackerel, and even larger game fish like tuna. Their lifelike action can trigger aggressive strikes from ocean predators.
Affordability: You don’t need to spend a lot of money on crankbaits. Many affordable options perform just as well as high-end models, making them ideal for beginners who don’t want to invest too much upfront.
Choosing the Right Cheap Crankbait for Ocean Fishing
When you’re just starting, it’s important to know how to choose the right crankbait for your fishing adventure. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a cheap crankbait:
Size: The size of your crankbait should match the type of fish you’re targeting. Smaller crankbaits are better for species like perch and bluegill, while larger crankbaits can attract bigger fish like bass or tuna.
Color: The color of the crankbait is another key factor. Fish are attracted to certain colors depending on the water clarity and the type of prey they are used to. In clear water, natural colors like silver, gold, or green are often more effective. In murkier waters, brighter colors like chartreuse or orange may be better.
Durability: Even though you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, don’t compromise on quality. Choose crankbaits that are made from durable materials to withstand saltwater conditions. Look for crankbaits with high-quality hooks and sturdy bodies.
Action Type: Crankbaits come in a range of actions, from tight, wobbling motions to wider, erratic movements. For ocean fishing, a wider action can often be more effective as it mimics the movement of larger prey. Make sure to select a crankbait with an action that suits the fish you are targeting.
Brand Reputation: While looking for cheap crankbaits, make sure to check the brand’s reputation. Established brands like Lurebolt.com offer affordable options that don’t compromise on performance.
Effective Techniques for Using Crankbait in the Ocean
Once you’ve chosen the right crankbait, you need to know how to use it effectively. Here are some tips to get the most out of your crankbait in the ocean:
Casting Techniques:
Accuracy Over Distance: When you’re fishing in the ocean, it’s easy to get carried away and cast as far as possible. However, accuracy is more important than distance. Fish are often found near reefs, drop-offs, or submerged structures, so aim your cast to those areas.
Angle and Depth Control: Make sure you cast your crankbait at an angle that allows it to reach the desired depth. For shallow waters, use a shallow-diving crankbait and cast it towards the shoreline. For deeper waters, a deep-diving crankbait will help you reach the right depth where fish are likely to be.
Retrieve Techniques:
Steady Retrieve: A steady retrieve works well in calmer waters, especially when fishing for species that are actively hunting prey.
Erratic Retrieve: For a more natural movement, try an erratic retrieve by twitching the rod slightly or pausing intermittently during the retrieval. This simulates a struggling fish and can trigger a predator’s strike.
Adjusting Your Retrieve Speed:
The speed of your retrieve should depend on the fish species you’re targeting. For aggressive fish like bass or tuna, a fast retrieve might be more effective. For more cautious species, a slower retrieve will give the fish more time to notice the crankbait.
Timing and Tides:
Tides play a significant role in fish behavior. Fish tend to be more active during rising or falling tides, so plan your fishing trips accordingly. Early morning or late afternoon are also great times to fish when fish are feeding actively.
Common Mistakes Beginners Make and How to Avoid Them
While using crankbait is straightforward, beginners often make a few common mistakes. Here’s how to avoid them:
Over-Casting: It’s tempting to cast as far as possible, but often the fish are closer to shore or near submerged structures. Focus on casting to known fish habitats instead of just aiming for the horizon.
Incorrect Retrieve Speed: Many beginners retrieve too quickly, thinking it will attract more fish. However, an overly fast retrieve can make the crankbait appear unnatural. Try adjusting the speed based on the fish activity and water conditions.
Ignoring Water Conditions: Tides, wind, and current all affect fish behavior. Don’t overlook the importance of these factors. For example, during high tide, fish may move closer to shore, making it a perfect time to target them with a shallow-diving crankbait.
Not Matching the Hatch: Ensure your crankbait matches the local prey fish species. If the local fish are feeding on small minnows, choose a crankbait that mimics this appearance. A mismatch in color or size can reduce your chances of success.
Conclusion
Crankbait fishing lures are a fantastic choice for beginners looking to try ocean fishing. They are versatile, easy to use, and can attract a wide range of fish species. By selecting the right crankbait, employing effective retrieval techniques, and avoiding common mistakes, you’ll be well on your way to a successful fishing experience. For more affordable, high-quality crankbaits, visit