Fishing with kids is a fantastic way to introduce them to the outdoors, and choosing the right fishing lure is crucial to making the experience fun and successful. One of the best lures for young anglers, particularly in river environments, is the custom crankbait. Crankbaits are versatile, easy to use, and highly effective in attracting fish, making them an excellent choice for kids just learning how to fish.
This comprehensive guide will delve into why custom crankbait fishing lures are ideal for kids, how to select the best ones for river fishing, and the techniques that will help young anglers catch fish with ease. We’ll also explore some top recommendations and provide insights into why crankbaits are a fantastic way to enhance the fishing experience for children.
By the end of this article, you’ll have all the knowledge you need to choose the best fishing lures for kids, ensuring a fun and successful fishing trip. Let’s dive in!
Why Custom Crankbait Fishing Lures Are Ideal for Kids in Rivers
Fishing with crankbaits provides a unique opportunity for young anglers to hone their skills while having fun. There are several reasons why custom crankbait fishing lures are perfect for kids fishing in rivers.
1. Easy to Use
Crankbaits are one of the easiest types of fishing lures to use, which is essential when fishing with kids. Unlike other lures that may require intricate techniques or specialized knowledge, crankbaits can simply be cast and reeled in, making them perfect for beginners.
The lure’s design includes a diving lip that allows it to mimic the movement of injured fish, attracting predatory species like bass, pike, and trout. This feature is especially engaging for kids because they can see immediate results with minimal effort.
2. Versatile and Effective for River Fishing
Rivers offer dynamic environments with varying depths, currents, and cover. Custom crankbait fishing lures are versatile enough to work well in these different conditions. Their unique design allows them to dive to specific depths, making them ideal for targeting fish hiding in deeper pockets or near structures like rocks and fallen trees. Crankbaits can also be retrieved at different speeds, adding another layer of versatility.
3. Instant Gratification for Young Anglers
Fishing with kids often requires patience, but custom crankbaits provide a quicker payoff. These lures can help young anglers catch fish faster, keeping them engaged and excited about the process. This “instant gratification” can help build a child’s confidence and foster a love for the sport, making them eager to fish again.
4. Fun Colors and Designs
Many custom crankbait fishing lures come in vibrant colors and appealing designs that can catch a child’s eye. Kids are naturally drawn to bright colors, making crankbaits more exciting for them to use. This not only keeps them engaged but also adds an element of fun to the fishing experience.
Choosing the Best Custom Crankbait Fishing Lures for Kids
When selecting the best fishing lures for kids, several factors should be considered to ensure a safe and successful fishing trip. Here’s a breakdown of what to look for in custom crankbait fishing lures for kids in rivers.
1. Size and Weight of the Crankbait
The size and weight of the crankbait are important for casting distance and retrieval ease. For kids, smaller crankbaits are ideal because they are lighter and easier to cast. A smaller size also makes it easier for younger anglers to handle the rod and reel without tiring out too quickly.
- Lightweight Crankbaits (1/4 oz to 1/2 oz) are perfect for kids fishing in rivers. These sizes allow for longer casts and more control during retrieval.
- Larger Crankbaits (1 oz and up) are better for bigger fish like pike or bass, but they may be more difficult for kids to handle.
2. Type of Diving Action
Crankbaits come in different diving depths, which can be important depending on where the fish are located in the river. Kids will likely find it easier to fish with a shallow-diving crankbait, which is more forgiving if they aren’t yet experienced at managing depth.
- Shallow-Diving Crankbaits (2-4 feet): Perfect for young anglers fishing in rivers where fish are close to the surface or in the shallows.
- Medium-Diving Crankbaits (4-8 feet): Useful for slightly deeper areas of the river where fish might be hiding.
The key is to match the crankbait’s diving action with the depth at which the fish are feeding. If you’re unsure, a shallow-diving crankbait is a safe bet for most river conditions.
3. Bright and Visible Colors
Since kids are naturally attracted to vibrant colors, choosing crankbaits in bright, visible colors is key. Fish can also be attracted to these bold hues, especially in murky or low-visibility river conditions. Opt for chartreuse, red, or blue colors, as these are known to stand out and get the attention of both kids and fish.
- Chartreuse: Excellent in murky water or cloudy days.
- Red or Orange: Mimics injured or struggling baitfish, which is highly attractive to predators.
- Bright Green or Blue: Works well in clearer waters or during bright sunlight.
4. Durability and Quality
Fishing with kids can sometimes be a rough affair, so you’ll want a custom crankbait fishing lure that can withstand repeated use. Look for crankbaits made with durable materials such as ABS plastic and stainless steel. These materials can handle repeated casting and retrieval without breaking down or losing effectiveness.
Top Custom Crankbait Fishing Lures for Kids in Rivers
Here are some of the top-rated custom crankbait fishing lures that are specifically designed for kids fishing in rivers:
1. Lurebolt Custom Crankbait
Best For: Versatility in rivers of all sizes
The Lurebolt Custom Crankbait is perfect for kids fishing in rivers. It features a lightweight design that’s easy to cast and retrieve, making it ideal for beginners. The bright, attention-grabbing colors and durable construction make it a great choice for young anglers. Plus, it comes with a shallow-diving lip, perfect for targeting fish near the surface in river conditions.
Key Features:
- Shallow-diving action (2-4 feet)
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Available in bright, kid-friendly colors
- Durable ABS plastic and stainless steel components
2. Rapala Original Floating Minnow Crankbait
Best For: Catching a wide range of river fish
The Rapala Original Floating Minnow Crankbait is a great option for kids. Its reliable floating action and proven fish-attracting design have made it a favorite among anglers of all ages. The lure is easy to cast and has a natural swimming action that mimics real baitfish. It works well in both shallow and medium depths, making it versatile for various river environments.
Key Features:
- Proven fish-catching action
- Versatile for different depths
- Great for beginners
3. Storm Original Wiggle Wart Crankbait
Best For: Deeper sections of rivers
The Storm Original Wiggle Wart is a medium-diving crankbait that’s perfect for young anglers targeting fish at slightly deeper depths. Its unique wobbling action imitates the motion of a distressed fish, making it highly attractive to predators. This crankbait is durable and built to handle the rigors of river fishing, making it an excellent option for kids.
Key Features:
- Medium diving (4-8 feet)
- Wobbling action to mimic distressed baitfish
- Durable construction for rough river conditions
Fishing Techniques for Kids Using Crankbaits in Rivers
While custom crankbait fishing lures are easy to use, teaching kids the best techniques will enhance their success on the water. Here are some simple tips for fishing with crankbaits in rivers:
1. Simple Retrieval
Start with a basic steady retrieve technique: cast the crankbait into the river, let it sink for a few seconds, and then reel it in at a steady pace. This simulates the swimming motion of a baitfish and works well for most species.
2. Pause and Go
Encourage kids to use a pause-and-go technique. After a few turns of the reel, pause for a second before resuming the retrieve. This mimics the movement of an injured or struggling fish, which can trigger strikes from predatory species.
3. Fishing Near Structures
Point out structures like submerged rocks, fallen trees, or the edges of currents, as these are prime spots where fish hide. Cast your crankbait near these areas and retrieve it slowly to ensure the bait is near the fish’s hiding spots.
Conclusion
Choosing the right custom crankbait fishing lures can make a big difference when fishing with kids in rivers. With their easy-to-use design, vibrant colors, and effectiveness in various conditions, crankbaits are an excellent option for young anglers. By selecting the right size, color, and diving action, you can ensure that your child has a fun and successful fishing experience.
To find high-quality, durable custom crankbaits and other fishing lures, visit Lurebolt.com. We offer a wide range of lures designed to make fishing easier and more enjoyable for anglers of all ages.
Happy fishing!