Spring is a prime season for fishing, and choosing the right lure can make all the difference in your success. As fish transition from their winter patterns and become more active, certain lures can prove to be game-changers. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just gearing up for the season, here’s a rundown of the top 5 lures for spring—what’s hot and what’s not.
1. Crankbaits
Hot: Crankbaits are a must-have in your tackle box this spring. Their diving action and wide wobble mimic the movements of baitfish, making them irresistible to predatory species like bass and pike. Opt for shallow-diving crankbaits in bright colors or patterns that mimic the local forage fish. In murkier waters, go for louder colors and patterns to catch the fish's attention.
Not: Avoid deep-diving crankbaits for shallow spring fishing. As fish are often found in shallower waters during this time, deep-diving crankbaits are less effective and can snag on underwater structures.
2. Soft Plastics
Hot: Soft plastics are incredibly versatile and effective during spring. Worms, creature baits, and swimbaits can be rigged in various ways to match different fishing conditions. For spring, try using Texas-rigged worms or wacky-rigged soft stick baits in natural colors to entice bass. The subtle action of soft plastics can be perfect for finicky fish.
Not: Avoid overly large soft plastics, as spring fish are often less aggressive and might be put off by larger, more intimidating baits.
3. Spinnerbaits
Hot: Spinnerbaits are ideal for covering a lot of water quickly and drawing in fish with their flash and vibration. This makes them perfect for spring fishing when fish are actively seeking out prey. Look for spinnerbaits with a combination of bright skirts and Colorado or willow blades. They’re especially effective in clear to slightly stained water.
Not: Be cautious with spinnerbaits that have very small blades or plain colors. These can be less effective in attracting fish in the diverse and active spring environment.
4. Jigs
Hot: Jigs are fantastic for targeting fish around structures like rocks, weeds, and fallen trees. In spring, opt for finesse jigs with smaller profiles and natural colors to match the changing forage. Football jigs can also be effective in deeper areas where fish are staging before moving shallow.
Not: Avoid large, bulky jigs that might be too intimidating for the more cautious spring fish. Stick to a more subtle presentation for better results.
5. Topwater Lures
Hot: As the water warms up in spring, topwater lures start to become effective. Poppers, frogs, and buzzbaits can create enticing surface commotion that can provoke aggressive strikes from bass and other surface-feeding species. Early mornings and late evenings are prime times to use topwater lures.
Not: Avoid topwater lures in extremely cold water or when fish are still deep. Spring fish might not be ready to chase surface lures if the water is still too chilly.
Tips for Choosing Lures
- Match the Hatch: Pay attention to the local baitfish and forage species. Choose lures that closely mimic the size, color, and movement of these prey.
- Water Clarity: Adjust lure color and action based on water clarity. Bright colors and noisy lures work well in murky water, while natural colors and subtle actions are better for clear water.
- Fishing Conditions: Consider the weather and water conditions when selecting lures. Overcast days might call for brighter lures, while sunny days may require more natural tones.
With these top 5 lures for spring, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle the season and increase your chances of a successful fishing trip. Stay adaptable and experiment with different lures and techniques to find what works best for you and the local fish.
Happy fishing!