Fishing can be a fun and rewarding activity for kids, especially when they are equipped with the right tools. One of the most effective types of lures for ocean fishing is the crankbait fishing lure. Known for their versatility and ability to attract fish with their realistic action, crankbaits are great for both experienced anglers and beginners—especially kids. This tutorial will provide detailed information on how to use durable crankbait fishing lures for kids in ocean settings, covering everything from the best lures to use to essential fishing techniques that ensure a fun and successful experience.
What Are Crankbait Fishing Lures?
Crankbait fishing lures are designed to imitate baitfish or other small prey, making them highly effective for attracting predatory fish. These lures are equipped with a lip that causes them to dive and move through the water with a lifelike action. Crankbaits can be made from various materials, but for kids, durable crankbait lures are essential to withstand the wear and tear of ocean fishing.
Key features of crankbaits include:
- Diving Lip: The lip allows the lure to dive to different depths, mimicking prey escaping from predators.
- Vibrating Action: Crankbaits vibrate and wobble as they are retrieved, which helps attract fish by creating an irresistible action.
- Durability: For kids, durable crankbaits are made with tougher materials that resist damage from rough handling or underwater obstacles.
Why Crankbait Fishing Lures Are Ideal for Kids
Fishing with crankbaits is an ideal introduction for children into the world of ocean fishing. Here’s why crankbaits are a perfect choice for young anglers:
1. Easy to Use
Crankbait lures are relatively easy to use, which makes them perfect for kids. All they need to do is cast the lure into the water and reel it back in. The lure’s design and action do most of the work, making it simple to get started.
2. Attracts a Wide Variety of Fish
Crankbaits are versatile and can catch many types of fish found in the ocean, from smaller species like snapper and mackerel to larger fish like bass or even tuna. This variety increases the chances of success for young anglers.
3. Durability
Kids tend to be rough on their fishing gear, which is why durable crankbaits are essential. A durable crankbait is made to withstand aggressive casting, frequent strikes, and rough handling, making it perfect for young, excited anglers.
4. Fun and Engaging
The action of the crankbait—its wobbling, diving, and flashing—makes fishing a more engaging experience for kids. When they reel in a fish, it’s not only exciting but also teaches them patience and concentration.
Types of Durable Crankbait Fishing Lures for Kids
When it comes to crankbait fishing lures for kids, choosing the right type is important to ensure ease of use and effectiveness. Here are some common types of crankbait lures that are particularly well-suited for young anglers fishing in the ocean:
1. Shallow Diving Crankbaits
Shallow diving crankbaits are perfect for kids who are fishing near the shore or in shallow waters. These lures dive to depths of about 1 to 3 feet and are ideal for catching species that live near the surface, such as mackerel or smaller bass.
- Best For: Shallow waters and active fish close to the surface.
- Features: Small size, light weight, and fast retrieval.
- Techniques: A steady, slow retrieve works best to keep the lure near the surface.
2. Medium Diving Crankbaits
Medium diving crankbaits are ideal for targeting fish at a moderate depth, between 3 to 6 feet. These lures can cover more area of the water and are effective when fishing in areas with varied depths.
- Best For: Areas with a mix of shallow and deeper water.
- Features: Moderate diving depth, versatile for different fishing conditions.
- Techniques: Steady retrieves with occasional pauses to create the illusion of injured prey.
3. Deep Diving Crankbaits
For kids fishing in deeper waters, a deep diving crankbait is the right choice. These lures can dive to depths of 6 feet or more and are designed for catching fish that dwell deeper in the ocean, such as larger bass or certain types of snapper.
- Best For: Deep waters, offshore fishing.
- Features: Long, slender profile with a deep diving lip.
- Techniques: Slow retrieve to ensure the lure reaches deeper water.
4. Suspending Crankbaits
Suspending crankbaits are unique because they “hang” in the water column when the retrieve is paused. These lures are effective when the fish are less active and need an enticing, stationary target.
- Best For: When fish are inactive and you need to encourage them to strike.
- Features: Stays suspended at a specific depth when not moving.
- Techniques: Use a stop-and-go retrieve to mimic a struggling fish.
How to Use Durable Crankbait Fishing Lures for Kids
Now that you understand the different types of crankbait lures, it’s important to teach kids how to use them properly. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to fish with durable crankbait lures in the ocean:
1. Setting Up the Gear
For kids, lightweight gear is essential. Use a light or medium-light spinning rod with a reel that has a smooth drag system. Choose a fluorocarbon or monofilament line in the 6-10 lb range, which is strong enough for small and medium-sized fish.
2. Casting the Crankbait
To cast, hold the rod with both hands, and use the thumb to press the spool of the reel. When ready, cast the crankbait into the water, ensuring the line is tight and free from any tangles. Kids should be taught to aim for areas where fish are likely to be, such as near rocks, underwater structures, or schools of baitfish.
3. Reeling In the Lure
Once the crankbait hits the water, it’s time to reel it in! Teach kids to reel in steadily, ensuring the crankbait maintains its action. Depending on the type of crankbait, this could mean retrieving slowly (for shallow diving lures) or a little faster (for medium or deep diving lures). The key is to keep the lure moving in a way that mimics the swimming motion of a fish.
4. Varying the Retrieve
Encourage kids to experiment with the speed of their retrieve. Slower retrieves work well for shallow diving lures, while faster, more erratic retrieves can be effective for medium and deep diving crankbaits. Kids can also try a stop-and-go technique, which is particularly useful for suspending crankbaits.
5. Waiting for the Bite
Teach kids to feel for the fish’s strike. If they feel a tug or vibration, they should stop reeling and wait for a moment before setting the hook. Once they feel the fish, they should reel in steadily to bring it in. Remind them to stay calm and patient!
6. Handling the Catch
Once a fish is caught, ensure that kids handle it carefully, especially if they plan to release it. Use a fish gripper or a wet cloth to hold the fish by the body, avoiding any damage to its skin. If the fish is small, show kids how to gently release it back into the water.
Tips for Success with Crankbait Lures
Here are a few tips to increase the chances of success when using crankbait fishing lures in the ocean:
- Match the Hatch: Choose crankbaits that resemble the type of prey fish that are abundant in the area, such as small baitfish or shrimp.
- Check the Weather: Fish are more likely to be active during overcast days. Bright sunlight may make fish retreat to deeper water.
- Be Patient: Fishing takes time, and success doesn’t happen immediately. Encourage kids to enjoy the experience and be patient.
- Use Bright Colors: In murky water, use brightly colored crankbaits like chartreuse or orange to attract fish more easily.
Conclusion: Make Fishing Fun and Successful with LureBolt
Durable crankbait fishing lures are an excellent choice for kids venturing into ocean fishing. They are easy to use, versatile, and effective at attracting a wide variety of fish. By choosing the right type of crankbait and teaching kids the proper techniques, fishing can become a fun and rewarding experience for young anglers.
For high-quality crankbait fishing lures and more fishing gear perfect for kids, visit LureBolt.com. Equip your child with the best tools for a fantastic fishing adventure!
This tutorial provides all the essential information for using durable crankbait fishing lures for kids in the ocean. By following these tips and techniques, kids can enjoy a successful and fun fishing experience.