fishing lures is crucial for success. Among the various types of lures, crankbaits are a top choice for lake fishing, especially when used with fly fishing techniques.
Cheap crankbait fishing lures can provide excellent value without compromising performance, making them an attractive option for anglers looking to maximize their fishing experience while keeping costs low. In this detailed guide, we’ll review the best cheap crankbait fishing lures for fly fishing in lakes, discuss how to use them effectively, and explain why these lures are a must-have for any angler’s tackle box.
What Are Crankbait Fishing Lures?
A crankbait fishing lure is a type of artificial lure with a hard body and a lip or bill, designed to dive to a specific depth when retrieved. The lip creates resistance in the water, causing the lure to move in a way that mimics the swimming motion of a baitfish or other prey. Crankbaits are particularly effective for attracting predatory fish like bass, walleye, trout, and pike, especially in lakes where these species are abundant.
Crankbaits can be used in both shallow and deep waters, making them versatile and adaptable to different fishing conditions. They come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, allowing anglers to choose the perfect match for their fishing environment and target species.
Why Choose Crankbait Lures for Fly Fishing in Lakes?
While fly fishing is often associated with soft flies or nymphs, crankbaits offer a unique advantage when targeting predatory fish in lakes. Here are several reasons why crankbait lures are a great choice for fly fishing in lakes:
1. Realistic Action
The primary reason crankbaits are so effective is their ability to mimic the natural swimming movements of small fish. The lip or bill on the crankbait causes it to move with an erratic, lifelike action that predatory fish find irresistible. This makes crankbaits ideal for fish species that hunt actively, such as trout, bass, and walleye.
2. Versatility
Crankbaits can be used to fish at various depths, depending on the size of the lip and the weight of the lure. This versatility allows anglers to target fish in shallow, mid-depth, and deep water with ease. Whether you’re fishing at the surface or deeper in the lake, there’s a crankbait designed to reach the right depth.
3. Wide Range of Fish Species
Crankbaits are highly effective for a range of freshwater species commonly found in lakes, including trout, bass, walleye, pike, and perch. Whether you’re targeting large lake trout or smaller rainbow trout, crankbaits can attract fish with their realistic action and vibration.
4. Cost-Effective
For beginners or anglers on a budget, cheap crankbait fishing lures provide great value without compromising on quality. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to get a reliable, durable crankbait that performs well in different fishing conditions.
Types of Cheap Crankbait Fishing Lures for Fly Fishing in Lakes
There are various types of crankbait fishing lures available on the market, each designed for different fishing conditions and target species. Here’s an overview of the types of crankbaits that work best for fly fishing in lakes:
1. Shallow-Diving Crankbaits
Shallow-diving crankbaits are perfect for fishing near the surface or in shallow waters. These lures typically dive to depths of around 3 to 6 feet and are ideal for targeting fish species that feed near the surface, such as trout, bass, and perch.
Best For: Fishing in shallow lake waters where fish are actively hunting near the surface.
Example: A shallow-diving crankbait with a bright, visible color like chartreuse or orange is great for targeting rainbow trout and bass during the spring and summer months.
2. Deep-Diving Crankbaits
Deep-diving crankbaits have a larger lip and can dive deeper into the water column. These lures are ideal for reaching fish that are holding at mid-depth or deeper water levels. They are great for walleye, lake trout, and larger bass that tend to feed in deeper parts of the lake.
Best For: Deeper lakes or during colder months when fish move to deeper, cooler waters.
Example: The Rapala Deep Diver is a popular deep-diving crankbait that can reach depths of 8-12 feet, making it perfect for targeting fish like lake trout in deeper parts of lakes.
3. Suspending Crankbaits
Suspending crankbaits are designed to remain at a specific depth when paused during the retrieve. These lures are perfect for targeting fish that are feeding in the mid-water column and are often used when fishing in deeper, colder lakes. They can be particularly effective when fish are not actively chasing fast-moving prey but are willing to bite when the lure stays at the right depth.
Best For: Rainbow trout, bass, and walleye in deeper lakes with variable depths.
Example: The Yo-Zuri 3D Crystal Minnow is a suspending crankbait that mimics a wounded fish, making it a great option for catching trout and walleye that are holding at specific depths.
4. Jointed Crankbaits
Jointed crankbaits are made with multiple sections connected by joints, which create a more erratic swimming action in the water. These lures are designed to mimic larger prey species, making them ideal for targeting larger fish like pike or larger bass.
Best For: Larger species like pike and larger bass that are hunting for bigger prey.
Example: The Storm Wildeye Swim Shad is a jointed crankbait that offers a lifelike swimming action, perfect for targeting pike or larger bass in deeper waters.
How to Use Crankbait Fishing Lures for Fly Fishing in Lakes
Using crankbait fishing lures for fly fishing requires the right setup and techniques to be effective. Here are some tips to get the most out of your crankbait lures when fly fishing in lakes:
1. Choose the Right Fly Rod and Reel
For fly fishing with crankbaits, you’ll need a medium to heavy-action fly rod that can handle the weight and resistance of the crankbait. A 9-foot, 8-weight fly rod is ideal for casting crankbaits, as it offers the strength and sensitivity required for both long casts and detecting bites. Pair this with a large arbor fly reel for smooth line retrieval and better control over your catch.
2. Selecting the Right Crankbait Size and Color
The size and color of your crankbait will depend on the species of fish you’re targeting and the conditions in the lake. In clear water, use more natural colors like silver, blue, or green to mimic baitfish. In murky water, bright colors like chartreuse or orange will stand out better and attract fish. Choose a crankbait size based on the prey size in the area; smaller lures work well for rainbow trout, while larger lures are better for pike and larger bass.
3. Casting the Crankbait
To cast a crankbait, simply cast it out to a target area where you believe fish are holding, such as near submerged rocks, drop-offs, or deeper pools. Let the crankbait sink to the desired depth before beginning your retrieve. Crankbaits can be used in both shallow and deep water, depending on the depth the fish are feeding at.
4. Retrieving the Crankbait
The key to fishing with crankbaits is the retrieval technique. Here are the most common methods for using crankbaits effectively:
Steady Retrieve: For shallow-diving crankbaits, a steady retrieve mimics an injured or slow-moving fish. This works well in shallow areas where fish are actively hunting.
Erratic Retrieve: For deep-diving or jointed crankbaits, use an erratic retrieve with sudden jerks or pauses to mimic the unpredictable movements of distressed prey.
Stop-and-Go: For suspending crankbaits, use a stop-and-go retrieve to keep the lure at a specific depth. This can be particularly effective when fish are holding at mid-water levels.
5. Adjusting for Water Conditions
The conditions in the lake—such as water clarity, temperature, and current speed—will affect how you should use your crankbait. In cold water, use a slow retrieve, as fish are less active. In warmer water, increase your retrieve speed to match the activity levels of the fish.
6. Patience and Persistence
Fly fishing with crankbaits requires patience. Sometimes fish may follow the lure without striking. If this happens, try varying your retrieval speed, depth, or technique to see what triggers a bite.
Where to Buy Cheap Crankbait Fishing Lures for Fly Fishing
When buying crankbait fishing lures for fly fishing, it’s important to choose a reliable source. Lurebolt.com is an excellent place to find a wide variety of durable and affordable crankbait lures for lake fishing. The website offers high-quality lures at competitive prices, with options suitable for all types of fishing conditions.
At Lurebolt.com, you’ll find:
A wide selection of crankbait fishing lures for both freshwater and saltwater.
Affordable prices without compromising on quality.
Fast shipping for customers worldwide.
Visit Lurebolt.com to find the best cheap crankbait fishing lures for your next fly fishing adventure in lakes.
Conclusion
Cheap crankbait fishing lures are a fantastic tool for fly fishing in lakes, offering realistic action, versatility, and durability at an affordable price. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, crankbaits can help you target a wide variety of fish species, including trout, bass, walleye, and pike. By selecting the right crankbait, mastering your retrieval techniques, and fishing in the right locations, you can maximize your chances of success.
For high-quality crankbait lures and other fishing gear, visit