About Fishing Lures |
For the beginning angler, walking into a bait and tackle shop for the first time can be overwhelming because of the huge selection of lures by type, color and sizes.
DepthDepth is a major factor in lure selection. There are three categories or lure types, surface, sub-surface and deep. Let’s start with Spring, when most gamefish move into the shallow water to spawn and seek food. Surface lures and shallow running lures are the best choice. During the Summer months fish move to deeper water where deep running lures and jigs are used. When fall arrives fish tend to move back to shallower water sub-surface and surface lures will be effective.
CoverSpecies such as largemouth bass and northern pike will be related to weeds throughout the year. When fishing thick weeds and brush use a lure with a weed guard (weedless) to prevent snagging. Always have a few surface lures on hand as well when fishing around cover especially during the early morning and evening hours.
Level of Fish ActivityThe gamefish level of activity determines the size and action of the lure. For instance water temperature affects fish more than and other elements, and weather conditions play a major role, such as when a cold front arrives.
Fishing Lure Colors, Light & Water ClarityMany articles have been written and theories discussed about lure color and how the water clarity affects the colors. All water acts as a light filter depending on the clarity, (clear or stained) and depth of the lure. It has been a general rule of thumb that lighter colored lures work the best in clear water in stained or murky water fluorescent colored are favored.
Fishing Lure SizesSizing of lures is also apart of the proper presentation. Here is a recommended chart for length of lures for various game fish. |