In this guide, we’ll explore why cheap soft plastic fishing lures are a great option for fly fishing in lakes, how to set up your gear for the best results, and what makes them so effective at attracting fish. We’ll also cover the different types of soft plastic lures available, their benefits, and tips to help you fish like a pro.
Why Choose Soft Plastic Fishing Lures for Fly Fishing in Lakes?
Fly fishing is typically associated with using lightweight artificial flies, but soft plastic lures have become increasingly popular for fly fishing due to their versatility and effectiveness. While they may not resemble the traditional fly, they can mimic the movement of prey and elicit strikes from fish that are otherwise reluctant to bite.
Here are several reasons why soft plastic fishing lures are a great choice for fly fishing in lakes:
1. Versatility
Soft plastic lures come in many shapes, sizes, and colors, making them versatile enough to be used in a variety of lake conditions. Whether you’re fishing in shallow or deeper waters, these lures can be rigged to work effectively at any depth. They can mimic various types of prey, such as worms, minnows, and crawfish, which are all commonly found in lakes.
2. Realistic Action
Soft plastic lures are designed to have a lifelike movement in the water. The flexible material allows them to move naturally with the current, mimicking the swimming motion of small fish or invertebrates. This makes them especially attractive to predatory fish like bass, trout, and pike.
3. Affordable
One of the most appealing features of soft plastic lures is their affordability. Compared to other types of fishing lures, soft plastics are often much cheaper while still providing excellent performance. This makes them a great choice for anglers who want quality lures without spending too much money.
4. Durability
Soft plastic lures are generally highly durable and can withstand multiple fish strikes before needing to be replaced. This makes them a great option for anglers who want to fish for an extended period without constantly re-rigging or replacing lures.
5. Wide Range of Fish Species
Soft plastic lures are effective for catching a wide variety of fish species. Whether you’re fishing for trout, bass, sunfish, or even pike, there’s a soft plastic lure designed to attract your target species.
Best Types of Soft Plastic Fishing Lures for Fly Fishing in Lakes
There are several types of soft plastic lures that can be used in fly fishing, each with its unique characteristics and advantages. Below are some of the most popular soft plastic lures for fly fishing in lakes:
1. Soft Plastic Worms
Soft plastic worms are a classic lure choice for lake fishing. They come in various lengths and colors, allowing you to match the local baitfish or prey species. When rigged properly, these worms produce a subtle, natural movement in the water that is irresistible to fish.
Best For: Bass, panfish, and trout.
How to Use: You can rig a soft plastic worm on a fly hook and present it using slow, steady retrieves. For more action, try “wacky rigging” the worm, where the lure is hooked in the middle and allowed to sink to the bottom.
2. Soft Plastic Minnows
Soft plastic minnows are designed to mimic the small baitfish that bass, trout, and other predatory fish feed on. They are often used for fishing near the surface or around submerged structures, where fish are likely to be feeding.
Best For: Bass, trout, and pike.
How to Use: Cast the minnow and retrieve it steadily or with small twitches to mimic the swimming motion of a baitfish. A “jerk and pause” retrieve can be particularly effective, as it mimics an injured fish trying to escape.
3. Soft Plastic Grubs
Soft plastic grubs are small, compact lures that are effective for fishing in shallow waters or around structures. Their small size and wriggling tail make them ideal for targeting smaller fish like sunfish and panfish.
Best For: Panfish, bluegill, and small bass.
How to Use: Grubs can be fished on a simple jighead or used with a fly hook. They can be retrieved slowly along the bottom or worked in mid-water to mimic a small, darting prey species.
4. Soft Plastic Crawfish
Crawfish are a major food source for many freshwater fish, making soft plastic crawfish lures highly effective for bass, pike, and other predatory species. These lures typically feature realistic pincers and a natural swimming action when retrieved.
Best For: Bass, pike, and walleye.
How to Use: Crawfish lures are best fished slowly along the lake bottom. Try a “hop-and-pause” retrieve to mimic the natural movement of a crawfish scuttling along the lake bed.
5. Soft Plastic Tubes
Tube lures are designed to resemble small invertebrates and are often used to target bass and trout. They can be fished effectively at various depths and produce a subtle, natural action when retrieved.
Best For: Bass, trout, and panfish.
How to Use: Tube lures can be fished on a jighead, or they can be used with a fly hook for a more natural presentation. The tube’s body flares when retrieved, creating a realistic, wriggling motion that attracts fish.
How to Set Up for Fly Fishing with Soft Plastic Lures in Lakes
Setting up your fly fishing gear for soft plastic lures in lakes is essential for success. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
1. Choose the Right Rod and Reel
For fly fishing with soft plastic lures, a medium-weight rod (5-7 weight) is ideal. This rod will provide the necessary sensitivity to feel bites and control the lure, while still being strong enough to handle larger fish like bass or trout.
Reel: Use a fly reel with a smooth drag system. The reel should balance well with the rod to ensure accurate and smooth casting.
2. Select the Right Fly Line
When using soft plastic lures for fly fishing, it’s important to choose the right fly line. A floating line is ideal for shallow water, allowing the lure to remain close to the surface. For deeper water, consider using a sink-tip line or a full-sinking line to get the lure down to the fish.
3. Tying Soft Plastic Lures to the Leader
Soft plastic lures can be tied to a fly hook or a specialized fly-fishing leader using a basic knot, such as a clinch knot or loop knot. Ensure that the knot is secure and that the soft plastic lure is rigged properly for maximum action.
Tip: When using soft plastics, it’s often best to use a leader made from fluorocarbon or monofilament, as they provide good abrasion resistance when fishing around structures.
4. Using a Float or Indicator
If you’re fishing in deeper water, consider using a float or strike indicator to help detect bites. This will help you maintain control of your soft plastic lure and ensure it stays at the right depth.
5. Casting Techniques
For beginners, casting can be one of the trickiest aspects of fly fishing. Practice your casting technique to ensure that you’re landing your soft plastic lure where you want it. You may need to practice short, controlled casts to prevent the lure from tangling in your fly line.
Tip: Keep your cast smooth and controlled to avoid disturbing the water too much. Once the lure lands, begin your retrieve immediately.
Techniques for Using Soft Plastic Lures in Lakes
Using soft plastic lures for fly fishing in lakes requires a bit of finesse. Here are some techniques to help you get the best action from your lures:
1. Slow and Steady Retrieve
For many soft plastic lures, a slow and steady retrieve works best. Bass and trout are often most interested in slow-moving prey, so give the lure time to move through the water naturally.
2. Jerk and Pause Retrieve
The jerk-and-pause technique is great for creating a more erratic presentation. After casting, retrieve the soft plastic lure for a few seconds, then pause for a moment. Repeat this process to mimic a struggling or injured fish.
3. Bottom Bouncing
If you’re fishing in deeper areas, try letting the soft plastic lure sink to the bottom and then retrieve it slowly. This technique mimics the movement of prey on the lakebed and works well for species like bass that are feeding near the bottom.
4. Varying the Speed
If you aren’t getting bites, try adjusting the speed of your retrieve. Faster retrieves can work well if fish are actively hunting, while slower retrieves are better for when fish are more sluggish.
Best Cheap Soft Plastic Fishing Lures for Fly Fishing in Lakes
Here are some of the best affordable soft plastic fishing lures for fly fishing in lakes that offer excellent action and durability:
1. Lurebolt Soft Plastic Worms
These worms are perfect for bass and trout. Their natural action in the water makes them irresistible to predatory fish.
2. Lurebolt Soft Plastic Minnows
Ideal for imitating small baitfish, these lures work well for larger fish like bass and pike in deeper lake areas.
3. Lurebolt Crawfish Soft Plastics
The crawfish lures are highly effective for bass, as they mimic the natural prey fish are likely to target near the lakebed.
4. Lurebolt Grub Soft Plastics
These small, compact lures are perfect for panfish and smaller bass, offering great action at a budget-friendly price.
Conclusion
Cheap soft plastic fishing lures are a fantastic choice for fly fishing in lakes, offering versatility, durability, and a realistic presentation that attracts a variety of fish species. Whether you’re targeting bass, trout, or panfish, soft plastics provide an affordable yet effective option for anglers of all levels.
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