Fishing for trout in lakes is one of the most enjoyable and rewarding fishing experiences. Whether you’re targeting rainbow trout, brown trout, or lake trout, using the right fishing lures is essential for success. Among the various types of fishing lures, crankbaits stand out for their versatility and effectiveness, especially when targeting trout in lakes.
At LureBolt, we specialize in providing easy-to-use crankbait fishing lures that are perfect for anglers of all skill levels. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of using crankbait lures, compare top-rated options for trout fishing in lakes, and provide tips for using these lures effectively. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, this guide will help you find the best crankbait fishing lures for your next lake fishing adventure.
What Are Crankbait Fishing Lures?
Crankbaits are hard-bodied fishing lures that are designed to mimic the movement of baitfish, insects, or other prey. The key feature of a crankbait is its ability to dive and move through the water, creating vibrations and a realistic swimming action. When retrieved, crankbaits imitate the movement of a fish or other prey species, attracting predatory fish like trout, bass, and walleye.
Crankbaits come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, allowing anglers to select the best lure based on water conditions, target species, and the specific depth at which the fish are feeding. The two main types of crankbaits are:
- Shallow-diving crankbaits: These lures typically dive to depths of 3 to 6 feet and are ideal for fishing in shallow lake areas or when trout are near the surface.
- Deep-diving crankbaits: These lures dive deeper, usually to depths of 6 to 12 feet or more, making them perfect for targeting trout in deeper lake sections.
Why Crankbait Fishing Lures Are Perfect for Trout in Lakes
Crankbait fishing lures are particularly effective when targeting trout in lakes for several reasons. Here’s why crankbaits should be a go-to option for your trout fishing trips:
1. Versatility in Lake Environments
Crankbaits can be used in a variety of lake conditions, from shallow, weedy areas to deep, rocky regions. Whether you’re fishing in clear or murky water, crankbait lures are designed to attract trout by mimicking the movement and flash of their natural prey. The versatility of crankbaits makes them effective across different lake environments, whether you’re fishing from a boat or the shore.
2. Realistic Action
The realistic swimming action of a crankbait closely resembles the movements of baitfish or other prey. This action is created by the shape of the lure and the internal mechanisms, which cause the crankbait to wobble, roll, or dart through the water. Trout are naturally attracted to these motions, making crankbaits a great choice for fooling even the most cautious fish.
3. Effective for Targeting Different Depths
Trout in lakes can be found at various depths depending on the time of day, water temperature, and food availability. Crankbaits allow anglers to target different depths by simply choosing the right diving depth of the lure. Shallow-diving crankbaits are effective when trout are feeding near the surface, while deep-diving crankbaits are ideal when trout are deeper in the water column, especially during warmer months or midday when they retreat to cooler depths.
4. Attracts Trout with Sound and Vibration
The sound and vibration produced by crankbait lures are crucial for attracting trout, especially in murky water where visibility is low. The wobbling action and internal rattles or beads produce vibrations that trout can sense with their lateral lines, drawing them toward the lure. This makes crankbaits effective in various water conditions, from clear lakes to murky or turbulent waters.
5. Easy to Use for Anglers of All Skill Levels
Crankbait fishing lures are incredibly easy to use, making them ideal for beginners and kids. The basic technique of casting and retrieving is simple, and even new anglers can quickly learn how to fish with crankbaits. The exciting action and strikes are visually stimulating and help keep young anglers engaged. Crankbaits are also great for experienced anglers, as they allow for various retrieval techniques and offer a high level of control over the presentation.
Top Rated Easy to Use Crankbait Fishing Lures for Trout in Lakes
When choosing the best crankbait fishing lures for trout in lakes, it’s important to consider the type of water, target depth, and fishing conditions. Here are some of the top-rated crankbait lures that are perfect for trout fishing in lakes:
1. LureBolt Classic Shallow Diver
The LureBolt Classic Shallow Diver is a versatile crankbait fishing lure designed to target trout in shallow lake waters. Its realistic swimming action and bright color options make it an ideal choice for fishing in clear to slightly stained water.
- Diving Depth: 3 to 6 feet
- Best for: Shallow lake areas, surface feeding trout
- Colors: Shad, silver, chartreuse
- Size: 2.5 inches
- Weight: 1/4 oz
Why It’s Great for Trout: The LureBolt Classic Shallow Diver provides a subtle yet enticing action that trout find irresistible. Its shallow diving depth makes it perfect for fishing near the surface or in shallow areas of lakes where trout are feeding.
2. LureBolt Deep Diver Crankbait
The LureBolt Deep Diver Crankbait is designed for targeting trout in deeper parts of lakes. This lure dives to depths of 6 to 12 feet, making it ideal for when trout are feeding at deeper depths during warmer months.
- Diving Depth: 6 to 12 feet
- Best for: Deeper lake sections, summer fishing
- Colors: Bluegill, gold, brown trout
- Size: 3 inches
- Weight: 3/8 oz
Why It’s Great for Trout: The LureBolt Deep Diver Crankbait excels at reaching trout at deeper depths, where they often hide in the midday heat. Its realistic movement and color patterns mimic the appearance of larger baitfish, which attract predatory trout.
3. LureBolt Mini Crankbait
The LureBolt Mini Crankbait is a smaller version of the classic crankbait, perfect for targeting smaller trout or panfish in ponds or shallow river sections. Its compact size and subtle action make it an ideal choice for young anglers or beginners.
- Diving Depth: 2 to 4 feet
- Best for: Small trout, panfish, shallow ponds
- Colors: Neon green, silver, orange
- Size: 1.5 inches
- Weight: 1/8 oz
Why It’s Great for Trout: The LureBolt Mini Crankbait is lightweight and easy to cast, making it ideal for smaller ponds or shallow areas where young anglers may be fishing. Its small size and action are perfect for catching smaller trout or panfish.
4. LureBolt Rattle Crankbait
The LureBolt Rattle Crankbait features an internal rattle system that creates additional sound and vibration, attracting trout from a distance. This crankbait is perfect for fishing in murky or turbulent waters, where sound and vibration are key to getting the trout’s attention.
- Diving Depth: 4 to 8 feet
- Best for: Murky waters, aggressive trout
- Colors: Black, gold, fire tiger
- Size: 2.75 inches
- Weight: 1/4 oz
Why It’s Great for Trout: The LureBolt Rattle Crankbait excels in murky or cloudy water, where visibility is limited. The added rattle makes it easier for trout to locate the lure, increasing your chances of success.
5. LureBolt Natural Color Crankbait
The LureBolt Natural Color Crankbait is designed with natural fish patterns that mimic the appearance of local baitfish. It’s perfect for fishing in clear water, where trout are more likely to scrutinize their prey before striking.
- Diving Depth: 3 to 6 feet
- Best for: Clear water, natural baitfish imitation
- Colors: Natural shad, silver, green pumpkin
- Size: 2.5 inches
- Weight: 1/4 oz
Why It’s Great for Trout: The LureBolt Natural Color Crankbait is ideal for clear-water fishing. Its realistic appearance and action make it perfect for trout that are feeding on local baitfish.
How to Use Crankbait Fishing Lures for Trout in Lakes
Using crankbait fishing lures effectively requires some basic techniques. Here’s how to get the most out of your crankbait lures when fishing for trout in lakes:
1. Casting and Retrieving
Start by casting the crankbait into the water, targeting areas where trout are likely to be, such as near submerged rocks, drop-offs, or along the shoreline. Once the lure hits the water, begin a steady retrieve. The key is to maintain a consistent speed, allowing the crankbait to dive to the desired depth and create a lifelike action.
2. Varying the Speed
Experiment with varying the retrieve speed. If you’re not getting any strikes, try reeling the lure faster or slower. A faster retrieve can simulate an injured or fleeing baitfish, while a slower retrieve might work better when trout are more passive.
3. Letting the Lure Sink
For deep-diving crankbaits, it’s important to let the lure sink to the desired depth before starting the retrieve. This ensures that the crankbait reaches the trout’s feeding zone and increases the chances of attracting a bite.
4. Watch for Strikes
Trout are often aggressive when feeding, so be prepared for quick strikes. Watch for any sudden tugs on the line and immediately set the hook with a firm upward motion of the rod.
Conclusion
Crankbait fishing lures are a fantastic tool for targeting trout in lakes. Their versatility, realistic action, and ability to attract fish from various depths make them a top choice for both beginners and experienced anglers. Whether you’re using the LureBolt Classic Shallow Diver, the LureBolt Deep Diver Crankbait, or the LureBolt Rattle Crankbait, you can rely on these lures to provide an exciting and effective fishing experience.
At LureBolt, we offer a wide range of high-quality crankbait fishing lures designed to help you catch more trout in lakes. Visit LureBolt.com today to explore our collection and find the perfect crankbait for your next fishing adventure.