Crankbait fishing lures are an essential tool for anglers, especially beginners who are looking to increase their success on the water. If you’re new to fishing in Canada, using handmade crankbait fishing lures offers a great way to mimic the movements of injured baitfish, which can attract a variety of freshwater species, from bass and walleye to pike and trout. These lures are designed to be easy to use, even for those who are just starting out, and they can help you catch more fish with less effort.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about using handmade crankbait fishing lures in Canada. Whether you’re fishing in the clear waters of Ontario, the rivers of British Columbia, or the lakes of Quebec, this setup guide will equip you with the knowledge and techniques to get started. From choosing the right crankbait to setup tips and fishing techniques, this article will provide you with all the information needed for a successful fishing trip.
Why Choose Handmade Crankbait Fishing Lures for Beginners in Canada?
For beginners, crankbait lures are an excellent choice for several reasons. Here’s why they should be in every angler’s tackle box:
1. Realistic Action and Movement
Handmade crankbaits are designed to mimic the natural swimming movements of small fish, which are the primary food source for many predatory fish species. The lifelike wobbling action is irresistible to species such as bass, trout, and walleye, making crankbaits one of the most effective lures for catching fish in Canadian waters.
2. Easy to Use
One of the main reasons crankbaits are so popular among beginners is their ease of use. Unlike soft plastics or jigs that require more skill and patience to present effectively, crankbaits are straightforward: simply cast them out and reel them back in. The natural movement of the lure will do the work for you, and it’s a great way to learn the fundamentals of fishing.
3. Versatility Across Different Water Types
Canada is known for its diverse water bodies, from lakes and rivers to ponds and reservoirs. Handmade crankbaits can be used in almost all of these environments, making them an incredibly versatile option for anglers. You can adjust the size, color, and depth of your crankbait depending on the fishing conditions, which increases your chances of success in varying environments.
4. Affordable and Durable
Handmade crankbaits are often more durable than mass-produced versions. Their solid construction means they can handle the rough conditions of Canadian rivers and lakes, where submerged rocks, weeds, and debris may wear down inferior lures. Additionally, they are affordable and often crafted with premium materials, providing an excellent return on investment.
5. Ideal for Catching Multiple Species
Crankbaits are effective for catching a variety of fish species. Whether you’re targeting bass in Ontario, trout in British Columbia, or pike in Quebec, a crankbait can be a great choice. The wide range of crankbait types — from shallow-diving to deep-diving — makes them adaptable to many fishing conditions and species preferences.
Types of Handmade Crankbait Fishing Lures
When it comes to crankbait fishing, it’s important to understand the different types of crankbaits and their applications. Here are the most common types of crankbaits that beginners in Canada should consider:
1. Minnow Crankbaits
Minnow crankbaits are slim, elongated lures that resemble small baitfish, one of the most common food sources for predatory fish. They are perfect for targeting species like bass, pike, and trout.
- Best for: Bass, pike, walleye, and trout.
- Depth Range: Shallow to mid-depth waters.
- How to use: Cast the minnow crankbait and retrieve it with a steady motion. Vary the speed to find the most effective retrieve.
2. Pencil Crankbaits
Pencil crankbaits are designed to resemble slender baitfish. These lures are great for fast-moving water and for fish that hunt along the surface.
- Best for: Bass, walleye, and pike.
- Depth Range: Shallow to mid-depth waters.
- How to use: Cast near the surface and use a twitching retrieve to imitate the erratic movement of a distressed fish.
3. Lipless Crankbaits
Lipless crankbaits are often used to mimic a wide range of prey, including small fish and insects. Their design allows them to sink quickly, making them ideal for fishing in deeper waters.
- Best for: Walleye, bass, and pike.
- Depth Range: Deep to mid-depth waters.
- How to use: Cast and let the lure sink before retrieving with a slow, steady motion. The vibrating action of the lipless crankbait mimics the movement of prey.
4. Deep Diving Crankbaits
As the name suggests, deep-diving crankbaits are designed to dive deeper into the water. These lures are ideal for fishing in deeper sections of lakes and rivers.
- Best for: Walleye, pike, and bass in deeper waters.
- Depth Range: Deep waters (8–15 feet or more).
- How to use: Cast the lure and allow it to dive to the desired depth. Retrieve with a slow and steady motion.
5. Shallow Diving Crankbaits
Shallow diving crankbaits are perfect for fishing near the surface or in shallow areas, where smaller fish often swim.
- Best for: Bass, panfish, and trout.
- Depth Range: Shallow waters (0–6 feet).
- How to use: Cast the lure into shallow waters and retrieve at a steady pace, keeping the bait near the surface.
Setting Up Handmade Crankbait Fishing Lures for Beginners
Once you’ve selected the right handmade crankbait, it’s time to set up your gear for fishing in Canada’s rivers, lakes, and ponds. Here’s a step-by-step guide for beginners:
1. Choosing the Right Rod and Reel Setup
For crankbait fishing, it’s essential to use the right rod and reel setup to maximize your control and casting distance.
- Rod: A 6-7 foot medium-action spinning rod is perfect for beginners. This length allows for longer casts, and the medium action gives you a balance of sensitivity and strength for detecting bites.
- Reel: Pair your rod with a spinning reel that has a smooth drag system. A 2000 to 3000 series reel should provide the ideal balance of size and power for crankbait fishing.
- Line: Use a 6-10 lb monofilament or fluorocarbon line. Fluorocarbon is less visible underwater and provides better sensitivity, while monofilament is slightly more forgiving and easier to cast.
2. Attaching the Crankbait
To attach the crankbait to your fishing line, use a strong knot like the improved clinch knot or loop knot. The loop knot, in particular, allows the crankbait to move more naturally in the water, increasing its lifelike action.
3. Casting the Crankbait
The key to successful crankbait fishing is making accurate casts. Here are a few tips for casting:
- Target Specific Areas: Focus on areas where fish are likely to be hiding, such as near submerged rocks, vegetation, drop-offs, and structures.
- Casting Technique: Use an overhead cast to reach distant targets. For shallow areas, you can use a sidearm cast to keep the bait near the surface.
- Use a Steady Retrieve: After casting, begin reeling in your line at a steady pace to allow the crankbait to dive and perform its natural wobbling motion.
4. Retrieving the Crankbait
Retrieving your crankbait effectively is crucial to triggering strikes from fish. Here’s how to retrieve it:
- Slow and Steady: For most crankbaits, a steady and slow retrieve works best. This allows the lure to mimic the natural swimming movement of small prey.
- Vary the Speed: If you’re not getting bites, vary the retrieve speed. Sometimes, a faster retrieve can trigger aggressive strikes, while a slower one works when fish are more cautious.
- Pause and Jig: Occasionally, pause your retrieve and give the rod a slight twitch to simulate an injured or distressed fish. This erratic action can provoke strikes from nearby fish.
5. Watching for Strikes
When using crankbaits, the strikes can be fast and powerful. Be sure to pay attention to your rod tip and the feel of your line. If you notice any resistance or feel a sudden tug, quickly set the hook by snapping the rod upward.
Tips for Success with Handmade Crankbait Fishing Lures
To ensure you’re getting the most out of your crankbait fishing experience in Canada, here are some expert tips:
1. Fish at the Right Time
The best time to fish with crankbaits is during the early morning or late afternoon when fish are most active. Crankbaits work well during these times because their action can imitate a vulnerable fish or prey species that fish are hunting.
2. Match the Hatch
Always choose a crankbait color and size that closely matches the prey fish in the area. For example, if minnows are abundant, use a minnow-style crankbait in similar colors (like silver or shad patterns).
3. Fish in the Right Depth
Pay attention to the depth at which you’re fishing. For shallow waters, use shallow-diving crankbaits. For deeper water, opt for medium or deep-diving crankbaits.
4. Adapt to Water Conditions
If the water is murky, use brighter or more vibrant colors (chartreuse or bright orange) to make the crankbait more visible. In clear waters, natural colors like silver, white, or brown work best.
Conclusion
Handmade crankbait fishing lures are an essential tool for any angler, especially beginners in Canada. Their versatility, realism, and ease of use make them perfect for targeting a variety of freshwater species in Canada’s diverse waterways. By understanding how to set up, cast, and retrieve your crankbait effectively, you can enhance your fishing experience and increase your chances of landing a catch.
For top-quality handmade crankbait fishing lures, visit Lurebolt.com. Our wide range of fishing lures is designed to help anglers of all levels catch more fish, whether you’re fishing in Canada’s lakes, rivers, or ponds.