This buyer's guide delves into the world of crankbaits, providing essential information for anglers looking to enhance their fishing success. We'll cover three key crankbait categories: squarebills, lipless cranks, and the rods best suited for presenting them. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to choose the perfect crankbait for any situation. We'll explore various models, highlighting their unique features and applications, from subtle silent lures to aggressively rattling options designed to attract fish from afar.From the nuanced actions of squarebills like the Lucky Craft 1.5 to the aggressive vibrations of the 13 Fishing Scamp, we examine top performers in each category. We also cover lipless crankbaits, focusing on their versatility and effectiveness, along with recommendations for optimal rod pairings. This guide ultimately helps you make informed decisions, enabling you to select the most effective tools for targeting and landing more fish.
Pros And Cons
- Proven action
- Silent
- Flat sided
- Good for colder water
- Smaller profile
- Castable on lighter rods
- High-end quality, fit and finish
- Good paint job
- Good split rings and hooks
- Smaller than some other square bills
Read more: 5 Killer Spinnerbait Fishing Lures You Need
Top Square Bill Crankbaits
Choosing the right square bill crankbait can significantly impact your fishing success. A silent square bill, like the Lucky Craft 1.5, often elicits bigger bites by sneaking up on fish. Its subtle action allows for a more natural presentation.
For a rattling option, the River2Sea Biggie offers a different approach. Its internal knocker creates noticeable vibrations, attracting bass from a distance. This bait is perfect for varying conditions and fish preferences.
The Spro Little John presents a unique shape and subtle sound, thanks to its tungsten ball weight transfer system. This provides long-distance casting and a tight wobble, making it a versatile choice for diverse situations. The added weight is useful for long casts.
Finally, the 13 Fishing Scamp stands out with its exceptional loudness. Its intense sound is especially effective in murky water or after spring floods. This is a bait for when you need a powerful vibration to bring in fish.
The MegaBass Z-Crane is a smaller squarebill with premium construction that excels in smaller rivers. Its compact profile and subtle rattle makes it a great choice for various situations. The high quality construction is worth the price.
Lipless Crankbaits: Action and Sound
The 3/4-ounce Lucky Craft LV-500 is a mainstay for many anglers. Its weight and size make it perfect for creating reactions bites from bass. Its unique sound is also a significant draw for fish.
For ultra-shallow applications, the Lucky Craft LV-100 offers a lighter option, ideal when bass are holding in less than a foot of water. The lighter weight allows for a more subtle presentation.
The Jackall TN-70 provides a different sound profile compared to the LV-series baits, making it effective in situations where the LV-500 might not work as well. This is a versatile bait that can be fished in a variety of ways.
Lastly, the Jackall TN-50 is a smaller profile that excels in extremely shallow water or when targeting smaller baitfish. Its compact size and unique action is suitable for specific scenarios.
The O.T.T. Garage Slim is a cold-water, flat-sided crankbait that is exceptionally effective during the late winter and early spring months. It has a unique profile that allows for effective presentations in cold water.
Crankbait Rods and Reels
The St. Croix Avid X is a high-quality rod that excels at throwing crankbaits. Its sensitivity and parabolic bend make it ideal for setting the hook and avoiding breakoffs. It’s versatility makes it suitable for all types of crankbaits.
The G. Loomis NRX is another excellent choice for crankbait fishing. Its strength and sensitivity allows for precise control and long casts. The high-quality construction makes it a worthwhile investment.
For reels, the Shimano Curado DC is a popular option known for its lightweight design and smooth operation. Its reliable performance makes it a workhorse that will last a long time.
The 13 Fishing Concept C2 is another excellent option that offers a lightweight design with exceptional value for its price point. Its lightweight design makes it suitable for a variety of techniques.
Additional Crankbait Options
The Bill Lewis Rattletrap is a classic lipless crankbait known for its versatility and effectiveness. Its loud rattle and ability to fish over grass makes it a reliable choice for many situations.
The Cotton Cordell Spot is an affordable and versatile choice. Its slow fall and ability to maintain depth make it suitable for a wide range of applications and is perfect for budget-conscious anglers.
For larger profiles, the Spro Aruku Shad 85 and the Sixth Sense Quake 80 offer increased size and weight for targeting larger baitfish. Their larger profiles are effective in certain situations.