Ocean fishing offers an exciting opportunity to catch a wide variety of fish, but it can be daunting for beginners who aren’t sure where to start. One of the most popular and effective tools for ocean fishing is the crankbait, a lure that’s known for attracting a range of species with its lifelike movement in the water. The best part? Crankbaits don’t need to be expensive to be effective. In this guide, we’ll highlight five affordable crankbait fishing lures that are perfect for ocean beginners. We’ll cover what makes each crankbait a good choice, how to use them, and what to look for when selecting the right one for your next ocean adventure.
1. Lurebolt’s Affordable Deep-Diving Crankbait
Overview: Lurebolt’s deep-diving crankbait is an excellent choice for beginners looking to target fish that dwell in deeper ocean waters, such as bass, cod, and snapper. This affordable crankbait dives to depths of 6 to 12 feet, making it perfect for deeper fishing zones around reefs, drop-offs, and submerged structures.
Features:
Action: Wide wobble to mimic distressed baitfish, appealing to aggressive predatory fish.
Durability: Built with high-quality plastic and equipped with strong hooks to withstand saltwater conditions.
Colors: Available in a range of colors that mimic local baitfish, increasing its effectiveness in various water conditions.
How to Use:
Best Time to Use: Ideal for fishing during medium to high tides when fish are likely to swim into deeper waters.
Technique: Use a steady retrieve with occasional pauses to create a more lifelike action. Experiment with different speeds to see what works best for the specific fish species you’re targeting.
2. Rapala Original Floating Crankbait
Overview: Known for its versatility, the Rapala Original Floating Crankbait is a popular choice among beginners due to its reliable performance and affordability. This floating crankbait is perfect for targeting fish that feed near the surface, such as mackerel, tuna, and various types of bass.
Features:
Action: Slow, floating motion that simulates an injured baitfish swimming on the surface.
Durability: Crafted with a balsa wood body, this crankbait is both lightweight and durable, able to handle the tough conditions of ocean waters.
Colors: Offered in realistic colors such as silver, gold, and chartreuse to match local prey species.
How to Use:
Best Time to Use: Best when fish are feeding near the surface, especially early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Technique: Cast the lure and use a slow, steady retrieve. The floating action will create ripples on the surface, which will attract fish. Try twitching the rod occasionally to mimic the movement of a struggling fish.
3. Storm Arashi Silent Crankbait
Overview: The Storm Arashi Silent Crankbait is a budget-friendly option that delivers exceptional action without the need for rattles. This silent crankbait is effective for catching cautious fish that might be spooked by loud noise but are still attracted to the lifelike movement of the lure.
Features:
Action: Subtle, tight wobble for a more natural presentation that doesn’t alert fish.
Durability: Made with a strong, durable plastic body, this crankbait can handle saltwater fishing conditions.
Colors: Available in a variety of color patterns to mimic various baitfish species.
How to Use:
Best Time to Use: Ideal for calm, clear water conditions when fish are more cautious and prefer less disturbance.
Technique: Use a moderate retrieve with small twitches to create a subtle but enticing movement in the water. The lack of rattles allows the lure to move naturally and attract fish without alarming them.
4. Exude Soft Crankbait (Jerkbait Style)
Overview: Although technically a soft plastic lure, the Exude Soft Crankbait offers an innovative hybrid design that combines the versatility of soft plastics with the lifelike action of a crankbait. This soft crankbait is great for beginners who want a budget-friendly yet effective option for targeting ocean fish like flounder, sea bass, and snapper.
Features:
Action: Erratic, darting motion that simulates a small fish or baitfish in distress.
Durability: Soft plastic body provides a more natural feel while still being durable enough for saltwater use.
Colors: Comes in a range of colors, including natural fish patterns and bright options for murkier waters.
How to Use:
Best Time to Use: Great for fishing in areas with a lot of structure, such as rocks, reefs, and submerged logs.
Technique: Cast and retrieve with an occasional jerk to make the lure dart and wobble erratically. This movement mimics the actions of a small fish trying to escape a predator, which can trigger strikes from predatory fish.
5. Berkley Flicker Shad Crankbait
Overview: The Berkley Flicker Shad Crankbait is an excellent low-cost option that’s particularly effective in shallow to mid-depth ocean waters. This crankbait mimics the swimming motion of a shad or other small baitfish, making it a great tool for targeting a variety of species, including striped bass, yellowtail, and mackerel.
Features:
Action: Fast, darting action that mimics a fleeing baitfish.
Durability: Constructed from a tough plastic body with sharp hooks, ensuring reliability even in saltwater environments.
Colors: Available in various color patterns that mimic local baitfish species.
How to Use:
Best Time to Use: Best used in shallow waters or near structures where fish tend to school, such as in harbors or near piers.
Technique: Retrieve the lure quickly, ensuring a fast darting motion. This will simulate a baitfish fleeing from a predator. Experiment with different speeds to find the right cadence for attracting fish in the area.
How to Choose the Best Affordable Crankbait for Your Ocean Fishing Needs
When choosing a crankbait for ocean fishing, affordability should never come at the cost of performance. Here are some tips to help you select the best crankbait for your needs:
Water Depth: Consider the depth of the water you’ll be fishing in. Shallow-diving crankbaits are best for targeting surface-feeding fish, while deep-diving crankbaits are essential for reaching deeper depths.
Fish Species: Different fish species respond to different actions and colors. If you’re targeting surface feeders, a floating or shallow-diving crankbait is ideal. For deeper-dwelling species, opt for a deep-diving crankbait that can reach the desired depths.
Water Clarity: In clearer waters, natural color patterns are more effective, while bright, bold colors tend to work better in murky waters where visibility is limited.
Durability: Ocean conditions are tough on fishing gear. Choose a crankbait with a strong, durable body and hooks that can handle the harsh saltwater environment without rusting or breaking.
Conclusion
Affordable crankbait fishing lures can provide excellent value for beginners without compromising on quality. Whether you’re fishing in shallow coastal waters or deeper ocean regions, there’s a crankbait for every scenario. The top 5 crankbaits we’ve highlighted in this guide are perfect for ocean beginners, providing great action, durability, and effective performance in a variety of conditions. Remember to select the right size, color, and action based on the fish species you’re targeting and the environment you’re fishing in.
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