If you’re getting into fishing, or even if you’ve been at it for a while, one thing you quickly learn is that the right fishing lure can make all the difference. But with so many types, sizes, colors, and styles out there, how do you pick the perfect one? Whether you’re a beginner just starting out or a seasoned pro looking to sharpen your tackle box, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to choose the best fishing lure for your next catch.
By the time you finish reading, you’ll understand the basics of fishing lures, what kind of lures work best in different conditions, and some insider tips that can help you catch more fish. Let’s get started!
What Exactly is a Fishing Lure?
A fishing lure is an artificial bait designed to attract fish by mimicking their natural prey. Unlike live bait—worms, minnows, or insects—a fishing lure is reusable and comes in tons of shapes, colors, and actions that can fool fish into biting.
Lures aren’t just about looking like food. They use movement, flash, vibration, and sometimes even sound to catch a fish’s attention. Because of this, having the right lure can really boost your chances of a successful fishing trip.
Why Choosing the Right Fishing Lure Matters
You might think, “I’ll just grab any lure and see what happens,” but choosing the right fishing lure is key to catching more fish and having a more enjoyable experience. The wrong lure can mean lots of casts with zero bites, while the right one can have fish chasing your line nonstop.
Here’s why it matters:
Target fish species: Different fish have different feeding habits and preferences.
Water conditions: Clarity, temperature, and depth affect which lure works best.
Fishing environment: Are you fishing in freshwater or saltwater? Shallow or deep?
Weather and time of day: These factors influence fish behavior and activity.
Types of Fishing Lures You Need to Know
Before diving into how to pick the perfect lure, let’s cover the main types of fishing lures so you know what options you’re working with.
1. Crankbaits
These are hard-bodied lures that mimic small baitfish. When reeled in, they dive and wobble, attracting fish by movement and color.
Best for: Bass, walleye, pike
Use tip: Cast out and reel steadily, experimenting with speed to imitate a fleeing baitfish.
2. Spinnerbaits
Spinnerbaits feature one or more spinning blades that flash and vibrate, creating movement fish can see and feel.
Best for: Bass, muskies, trout
Use tip: Use a slow or steady retrieve, sometimes with pauses, to create bursts of flash and vibration.
3. Soft Plastic Baits
These flexible lures come in many shapes, like worms, crawfish, or minnows. Their lifelike movement makes them favorites among anglers.
Best for: Bass, panfish, saltwater species
Use tip: Rig them on jig heads or Texas rigs depending on the presentation needed.
4. Jigs
A jig is a weighted hook with a soft or feathered skirt. It’s great for bottom fishing and mimics crawfish or small fish.
Best for: Bass, crappie, walleye
Use tip: Bounce it along the bottom with short lifts and drops to entice bites.
5. Topwater Lures
These float and move on the water’s surface, creating splashes, pops, or buzzes that trigger aggressive strikes.
Best for: Bass, pike, musky
Use tip: Use a twitch-pause or steady retrieve to mimic struggling prey.
How to Choose the Perfect Fishing Lure: Key Factors
Now that you know the main types, here’s how to choose the perfect fishing lure based on important factors.
1. Consider the Target Fish Species
Every fish species has its favorite food and preferred hunting style.
Bass: Like soft plastics, crankbaits, and spinnerbaits.
Trout: Often go for smaller, more subtle lures like spinners and flies.
Pike and Musky: Prefer larger, flashy lures and topwater baits.
Do some research or ask local anglers what works best where you fish.
2. Match the Hatch
This classic fishing tip means matching your lure to the prey the fish are feeding on.
Look around for insects, minnows, or crawfish and pick a lure that mimics their size, shape, and color.
3. Water Clarity and Color
Water conditions affect how fish see your lure.
In clear water, use natural, subtle colors to avoid spooking fish.
In murky or stained water, bright or fluorescent colors and lures that create vibration work better.
4. Depth and Structure
Fish hang out at different depths depending on the species and time of year.
Use diving crankbaits or weighted jigs for deep water.
Try topwater or shallow-running lures in shallow areas or near structures like weed beds and rocks.
5. Weather and Time of Day
Fish are sensitive to changes in light, temperature, and barometric pressure.
Early mornings and late evenings are great for topwater lures.
Overcast or rainy days might call for slower retrieves and darker lure colors.
On bright, sunny days, subtle colors and deeper fishing often work best.
Pro Tips for Using Fishing Lures Like a Champ
Keep several lure types handy: You never know when the fish will switch preferences.
Experiment with colors: Sometimes fish prefer bright lures; other times, natural tones.
Vary your retrieve: Fast, slow, stop-and-go, and twitching can all trigger bites.
Watch what local anglers are using: Local knowledge can be gold.
Adjust your tackle: Your rod, reel, and line all affect lure action.
Common Mistakes When Choosing Fishing Lures
Sticking to one lure and ignoring the conditions.
Choosing the biggest or flashiest lure without considering the fish or water.
Using the wrong lure size — bigger isn’t always better.
Not adapting when the fish stop biting.
Forgetting to maintain your lures — dull hooks or faded paint can hurt your chances.
How to Care for Your Fishing Lures
Taking care of your lures helps them last longer and work better.
Rinse lures after saltwater fishing to prevent corrosion.
Store lures in tackle boxes with compartments to avoid tangling.
Sharpen or replace hooks regularly.
Fix or replace damaged skirts or bodies.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the perfect fishing lure isn’t as complicated as it might seem once you understand the basics. Think about the fish you want to catch, the water and weather conditions, and how the lure moves underwater. Then experiment with different types, colors, and retrieves until you find what works.
Fishing is a fun mix of science, art, and a bit of luck. But with the right fishing lure, your odds of landing a great catch go way up.
For a wide selection of top-quality fishing lures and expert advice, be sure to visit LureBolt.com. They’ve got everything you need to gear up and get fishing like a pro!