Fishing is a fantastic outdoor activity that allows children to connect with nature while learning important skills. However, when it comes to selecting the right fishing equipment for kids, durability, ease of use, and fun play a significant role. Among the most popular types of fishing lures for young anglers are soft plastic fishing lures. These lures are not only versatile but also designed to imitate the natural movement of fish in the water, making them ideal for ocean fishing.
In this article, we will explore the best durable soft plastic fishing lures for kids, focusing on how they can be used effectively in ocean fishing. We’ll also provide a detailed review of top products, discuss how to choose the right lures, and offer valuable tips on using these lures to make the fishing experience both fun and successful for children.
Why Soft Plastic Lures are Ideal for Kids
Soft plastic fishing lures are often preferred for their realistic movement and ease of use. For kids, who may not have the experience or strength to handle more complicated tackle, soft plastic lures offer several advantages:
- Durability: Soft plastic lures are flexible yet durable, which is essential when kids are handling them. These lures can withstand the wear and tear of active use, especially in saltwater environments like the ocean.
- Realistic Movement: One of the main advantages of soft plastic lures is their ability to mimic the movement of natural prey. Whether it’s a baitfish, a shrimp, or a worm, soft plastics move in a way that attracts fish. This helps children understand the science behind fishing while making the experience more exciting.
- Ease of Use: These lures are often lightweight and easy to cast, making them perfect for children. They don’t require a complex retrieval technique, and with the right setup, kids can easily catch fish with minimal assistance.
- Variety of Shapes and Colors: Soft plastic lures come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and colors, allowing children to experiment and find the ones that work best in the ocean. Whether they want something that mimics a small fish or a soft shrimp, there’s a lure for every scenario.
Key Features to Look for in Soft Plastic Fishing Lures for Kids
When choosing soft plastic fishing lures for children, several factors need to be taken into consideration. Not all lures are the same, and understanding the differences will ensure you pick the right ones for young anglers.
1. Size of the Lure
- Smaller Lures for Young Kids: For younger children or beginners, smaller lures (around 2-3 inches) are often more appropriate. These sizes mimic smaller prey, which is usually what fish in the ocean target, and they are easier to handle and cast.
- Larger Lures for Older Kids: Older or more experienced kids can handle larger lures (4-6 inches). These lures are better for attracting bigger fish like sea bass, snapper, or even small sharks.
2. Softness and Flexibility
- Flexible but Durable: Soft plastic lures need to strike the right balance between flexibility and durability. If the lure is too soft, it may tear easily, while if it’s too stiff, it may not move as realistically in the water.
- Tear Resistance: Given that kids might not have the gentlest handling, selecting lures that are both soft yet resistant to tears is essential. Lures that are made from high-quality, tear-resistant plastic are the most durable for ocean fishing.
3. Saltwater Resistance
- Special Saltwater Plastics: Not all soft plastics are created equal, especially when it comes to saltwater. Soft plastic lures designed specifically for saltwater fishing will hold up better in the ocean’s corrosive environment. These lures are made with special additives that prevent them from breaking down too quickly.
4. Realistic Design
- Lifelike Action: The main reason to choose soft plastic lures for kids is the lifelike action they can create in the water. When choosing lures, opt for those with tails or fins that move naturally when retrieved. This is crucial in attracting fish and making the experience engaging for children.
5. Bright Colors
- Bright, High-Contrast Colors: Bright colors, such as neon green, orange, or pink, can be very effective in ocean fishing, especially in murky waters. They help fish spot the lure from a distance and can also increase the excitement for kids.
Top Durable Soft Plastic Fishing Lures for Kids
Let’s take a look at some of the best soft plastic fishing lures for kids that are specifically designed to be durable, effective in the ocean, and easy to use.
1. LureBolt Soft Plastic Minnow Lures
LureBolt’s Soft Plastic Minnow Lures are perfect for kids who want to catch a variety of fish species in the ocean. These lures are designed to mimic the natural movement of small baitfish and have a life-like action in the water. Made from high-quality, saltwater-resistant plastic, these lures are durable enough for ocean use and come in various sizes to cater to different types of fish.
- Why it’s great for kids: The small size and soft texture make it easy for kids to use and reel in. The realistic tail action and bright colors attract fish, ensuring a successful fishing trip.
2. LureBolt Soft Plastic Shrimp Lures
Shrimp are a common prey item for many species of fish, and LureBolt’s Soft Plastic Shrimp Lures are designed to mimic their movement perfectly. These lures feature a segmented body that moves naturally through the water, which helps attract fish such as snapper, grouper, and more.
- Why it’s great for kids: With a compact design and soft, flexible material, this lure is easy for children to handle. Its realistic look and movement make it one of the top picks for young anglers.
3. Berkley Gulp! Alive! Soft Plastic Lures
Berkley’s Gulp! Alive! series of soft plastic lures are known for their exceptional scent and realistic action. The Gulp! Alive! Shrimp and Minnow Lures come pre-scented with a fish-attracting formula that makes them irresistible to ocean fish.
- Why it’s great for kids: The scent draws fish in, which is a helpful feature for beginners or kids who may struggle with casting and retrieving. The lures also last longer than many other soft plastics, making them ideal for kids who may need to replace lures less often.
4. Z-Man EZ ShrimpZ Soft Plastic Lures
The EZ ShrimpZ lures by Z-Man are designed for durability and long-lasting performance in both fresh and saltwater. These lures have a realistic shrimp design with a paddle tail, which gives them lifelike action even with the slightest movement.
- Why it’s great for kids: The Z-Man EZ ShrimpZ lures are extremely durable, meaning they can withstand repeated use, making them perfect for kids. The realistic design also helps kids understand how different prey moves underwater.
Tips for Using Soft Plastic Lures with Kids
Using soft plastic fishing lures effectively requires the right technique. Here are some tips to make fishing with kids more enjoyable and successful:
1. Teach the Basics of Casting
- Before you head to the ocean, practice casting techniques with your child. Ensure they understand how to properly cast the line and use the reel. This makes the process smoother when they’re on the water.
2. Simple Retrieval Techniques
- For kids, keep the retrieval process simple. Teach them to reel in slowly and steadily. They can experiment with stopping and starting the retrieval to see how the lure moves in the water.
3. Use a Rod and Reel Combo for Kids
- Make sure the rod and reel are the right size for children. Lighter, smaller rods are easier for kids to handle and will make the fishing experience more fun.
4. Patience is Key
- Fishing can sometimes be slow, especially in ocean conditions. Encourage kids to be patient and enjoy the process of learning, regardless of how many fish they catch.
Conclusion
Fishing with soft plastic fishing lures is a fantastic way to introduce kids to the joys of ocean fishing. With the right selection of lures, such as those offered by LureBolt, children can easily mimic the movements of real prey, attracting a wide variety of fish. These lures are not only durable and easy to use but also come in a range of designs, colors, and sizes to suit the needs of young anglers.
If you’re looking for the best fishing lures for kids, LureBolt has you covered. Our range of soft plastic lures is designed to withstand the rigors of ocean fishing while providing the best fishing experience for children.
Visit us at lurebolt.com to explore our selection and start your fishing adventure today.