Fishing is a fantastic outdoor activity that not only introduces kids to the great outdoors but also teaches patience, responsibility, and the excitement of catching their first fish. For young anglers, finding the right fishing gear is essential for creating an enjoyable and rewarding experience. When it comes to fishing in rivers, one of the best lures to introduce children to the sport is the crankbait.
Crankbait fishing lures are versatile, easy to use, and highly effective, especially in river environments. Whether you’re targeting bass, trout, or other river-dwelling species, a crankbait is a great tool for beginners. This article will explore why crankbait fishing lures are perfect for kids fishing in rivers, how to use them effectively, and which lures are the best for young anglers.
What Are Crankbait Fishing Lures?
Crankbait lures are designed to imitate the movement of baitfish or other prey species. These lures have a plastic or balsa wood body with a diving lip at the front. The lip causes the crankbait to dive and wobble when retrieved through the water, mimicking the swimming action of small fish. Crankbaits are effective because they imitate the natural movements of prey, making them irresistible to predatory fish like bass, trout, and pike.
Crankbaits are especially popular in freshwater rivers, where predatory fish often target baitfish and other small creatures. These lures are available in various sizes, colors, and depths, allowing anglers to tailor their choices to specific river conditions and target species.
Why Crankbaits Are Great for Kids in Rivers
Introducing kids to fishing in rivers can be a fun and exciting experience. Crankbait fishing lures are an excellent choice for young anglers due to their simplicity, effectiveness, and ability to catch a wide variety of fish species. Here’s why crankbaits are great for kids fishing in rivers:
1. Easy to Use
One of the main reasons crankbaits are perfect for kids is their simplicity. Using a crankbait doesn’t require complex techniques or knowledge of advanced fishing methods. Kids simply need to cast the lure into the water and retrieve it at a steady pace. The wobbling motion of the crankbait does all the work in attracting fish, making it easy for children to use and enjoy.
2. Visual Excitement
Crankbait fishing is particularly thrilling for kids because they can see the action unfold before their eyes. When a fish strikes a crankbait, it usually happens quickly and with excitement, making it easy for kids to stay engaged. This visual feedback motivates young anglers to keep trying, which can build confidence and excitement.
3. Effective in Rivers
Rivers are dynamic environments with varying water depths and current speeds. Crankbait lures are effective in these conditions because they can be used in both slow and fast-moving water. Crankbaits also dive to different depths, allowing young anglers to target fish at various levels of the water column.
4. Versatility
Crankbaits are versatile lures that can be used in different parts of the river. Whether you’re fishing in shallow, rocky areas or deeper channels, there’s a crankbait designed to suit the conditions. This versatility makes crankbaits a great all-around lure for young anglers who are still learning how to fish in different environments.
5. Durability
Children are still learning the ins and outs of fishing, and sometimes accidents happen. Crankbait lures are generally made from durable materials like plastic or balsa wood, making them capable of withstanding rough handling and repeated use. This durability makes them a great choice for kids, who may not always handle their gear with care.
How to Choose the Best Crankbait Fishing Lure for Kids
When selecting a crankbait for kids fishing in rivers, several factors should be considered to ensure a positive experience. These factors include the size of the crankbait, its color, the depth it dives to, and the fish species you’re targeting. Here’s how to choose the best crankbait fishing lures for kids:
1. Size and Weight of the Crankbait
For kids, it’s essential to choose a crankbait that is easy to cast and handle. Smaller crankbaits are generally easier for young anglers to manage. Look for crankbaits that weigh between 1/8 to 1/2 ounce. These sizes are ideal for casting in rivers and are easier to control, especially for beginners.
2. Color
The color of the crankbait should mimic the natural prey in the river. Different species of fish are attracted to different colors, so it’s important to choose colors based on the type of fish you are targeting and the water conditions.
- Clear Water: In clear water, natural colors like silver, shad, or white tend to work best.
- Murky Water: Bright colors like chartreuse, orange, and red stand out in murky water and create more visibility for fish.
- Low Light Conditions: During low-light conditions or early morning/evening, darker colors such as black or purple can be effective.
3. Diving Depth
The diving depth of the crankbait is crucial when fishing in rivers, as fish are often found at different depths depending on the time of day and water conditions. Crankbaits are available in various diving depths:
- Shallow-Diving Crankbaits: Ideal for fishing in shallow river areas, especially near the banks or over submerged rocks.
- Mid-Depth Crankbaits: Best used in deeper sections of the river where fish tend to swim at mid-level depths.
- Deep-Diving Crankbaits: Effective for targeting fish in deeper channels or areas where the water is moving faster.
4. Target Species
The species of fish you’re targeting will also determine the type of crankbait to choose. For example:
- Bass: Bass are aggressive and often attracted to larger crankbaits with bright colors. A medium-sized crankbait that dives to mid-level depths is a great choice for bass fishing in rivers.
- Trout: Trout tend to prefer smaller crankbaits that resemble smaller baitfish. A smaller, tighter-wobbling crankbait in natural colors works well for trout.
- Pike and Muskie: These larger predatory fish require bigger crankbaits with more aggressive action. Large, deep-diving crankbaits with flashy colors will attract pike and muskie in rivers.
Top Rated Crankbait Fishing Lures for Kids in Rivers
Here are some of the best crankbait fishing lures for kids that are durable, easy to use, and highly effective in rivers. These lures are designed specifically for young anglers and provide a great fishing experience in freshwater rivers.
1. Lurebolt Junior Shallow Diver Crankbait
The Lurebolt Junior Shallow Diver Crankbait is perfect for young anglers targeting bass and trout in shallow river areas. It has a tight-wobbling action and is small enough to be easily cast by children. With its durable construction and bright colors, it attracts fish and is easy to retrieve.
2. Lurebolt Trout Crankbait
Specifically designed for trout, the Lurebolt Trout Crankbait is a smaller, more subtle option for kids fishing in rivers. Its natural color patterns and tight wobble closely mimic the movement of small minnows, making it perfect for enticing trout and other river-dwelling fish.
3. Lurebolt Rattle Crankbait
For fishing in murky or low-light conditions, the Lurebolt Rattle Crankbait is a great choice. This lure has an internal rattle that creates extra noise and vibration, making it easier for fish to locate. Its versatile design makes it effective in both shallow and deeper river areas, and it’s great for bass and pike.
4. Lurebolt Deep Diver Crankbait
The Lurebolt Deep Diver Crankbait is perfect for kids targeting fish in deeper river sections. Its deep-diving action allows it to reach fish that are swimming lower in the water column. The lure’s larger size and bright color patterns make it effective for attracting bass and pike in deeper areas of rivers.
5. Lurebolt Mini Crankbait Set
The Lurebolt Mini Crankbait Set includes several small crankbaits in various colors and diving depths. This set is ideal for kids who want to try different crankbaits and experiment with fishing in various parts of the river. The small size makes it easy for young anglers to handle, and the variety allows them to adapt to changing conditions.
How to Teach Kids to Use Crankbaits in Rivers
Once you’ve selected the perfect crankbait, it’s time to teach kids how to use it effectively. Here are some tips for teaching young anglers the basics of crankbait fishing:
1. Casting
Teach kids how to cast their crankbaits accurately. Start with short casts near the bank or shallow areas of the river. Once they get the hang of casting, they can begin targeting areas with deeper water or structures like rocks and fallen trees.
2. Retrieve
Show them how to retrieve the crankbait steadily. The key is to maintain a consistent speed while keeping the lure just below the water’s surface. If the crankbait has a rattle or a flashy finish, it will attract fish even more.
3. Patience
Encourage kids to be patient, as fishing often involves a lot of waiting. If the fish don’t strike immediately, advise them to try different retrieval speeds, depths, or lures until they find what works.
4. Safety
Always remind kids to wear appropriate clothing for outdoor activities and use safety gear, such as life jackets, when fishing near water. Make sure they understand the importance of handling the fishing gear with care.
Why Choose Lurebolt for Crankbait Fishing Lures for Kids?
At Lurebolt, we offer high-quality crankbait fishing lures that are specifically designed for young anglers. Our lures are durable, easy to use, and come in a variety of colors and sizes that are perfect for fishing in rivers.
Here’s why Lurebolt is the best choice for crankbait lures for kids:
- Durability: Our lures are made from strong, long-lasting materials that can withstand rough handling by young anglers.
- Kid-Friendly: Designed for ease of use, our crankbaits are perfect for kids who are just starting to fish.
- Wide Selection: We offer a variety of crankbait sizes and colors to suit different fishing environments and species.
- Affordable: Lurebolt offers great value for money, so you can get the best crankbait lures for your child without breaking the bank.
Conclusion
Crankbait fishing lures are an excellent choice for kids fishing in rivers. Their ease of use, effectiveness, and excitement make them perfect for young anglers who are eager to learn and have fun. By choosing the right crankbait, teaching them the basics of casting and retrieval, and providing them with high-quality gear, you can help kids enjoy their time on the water while increasing their chances of success.
For top-rated crankbait fishing lures that are durable, easy to use, and designed for kids, visit Lurebolt.com. Our lures are perfect for young anglers, offering quality and affordability for your next fishing trip. Shop now and give your child the best start in their fishing adventure!