If you've spent any time fishing, you've probably heard of a crankbait. These lures are among the most popular and versatile fishing lures you can find. They come in many shapes and sizes, and when used the right way, they can help you catch everything from bass to pike.
In this post, we'll break down what crankbaits are, how to use them, the different types available, and even give you a step-by-step guide to tying one to your fishing line.
What is a Crankbait?
A crankbait is a hard-bodied fishing lure, usually shaped like a small fish. The key feature is the "lip" or bill at the front, which makes the lure dive and wobble when you reel it in. This lifelike movement mimics a real fish, attracting predatory species.
Crankbaits stand out among fishing lures because they can cover a lot of water quickly and trigger reaction bites from fish that aren't even hungry.
When and Where to Use Crankbaits
Crankbaits are perfect when you need to search large areas of water fast.
They work well:
- In lakes and rivers with cover like rocks, stumps, and weeds
- In shallow and deep water (depending on the type of crankbait)
- In summer and early fall, when fish are most active
The depth it will dive depends on its size. Some crankbaits stay near the surface, and others can dive incredibly deep.
Types of Crankbaits
Not all crankbaits are the same.
Here are the main types:
- Shallow-diving crankbaits – great for fishing close to shorelines or weed beds.
- Deep-diving crankbaits – designed for deeper waters, perfect for summer bass fishing. If you're targeting deeper areas, here are some quick deep diving crankbait tips: use the right rod length, a slower gear ratio reel, and a thinner line to help your lure reach its full depth.
- Lipless crankbaits – have no bill and sink fast, making them ideal for covering water quickly.
- Square-bill crankbaits – with a square lip, these bounce off rocks and wood without snagging as easily.
Want to explore the different options? Check out our crankbait catalog here.
If you're still unsure whether a crankbait is the right choice for you, we also wrote a guide on how to choose the correct lure type covering crankbaits, soft lures, luminous ones, and more.
How to Fish a Crankbait: Techniques & Tips
Fishing with crankbaits is fairly simple, but technique makes a difference:
- Steady retrieve: Reel at a consistent pace to maintain a lifelike wobble.
- Stop and go: Pause occasionally to mimic a wounded fish.
- Bounce off cover: Let the crankbait hit rocks, logs, or bottom surfaces--this sudden change in movement often triggers strikes.
Matching Crankbait to Fish Species
Different fish prefer different crankbait styles.
For example:
- Bass – respond well to square-bill and lipless crankbaits. This is where many anglers look for the best crankbait for bass fishing, since bass often react strongly to these lures.
- Pike – often hit larger, deep-diving crankbaits.
- Trout – prefer smaller crankbaits with subtle movement.
And don't forget about water conditions. Lighter and more natural colors tend to work better in clear water. Many anglers rely on crankbait color tips for clear water, such as using silver, pearl, or shad patterns.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Tie a Crankbait to Fishing Line
Getting your crankbait tied on properly is just as important as choosing the right lure. Here's a simple method:
- Take the end of your fishing line and thread it through the eye of the crankbait.
- Pull about 6–8 inches of line through to give yourself room to work.
- Tie an overhand knot, leaving a loop big enough for the lure to move freely.
- Wrap the loose end of the line around the standing line 4–5 times.
- Pass the loose end back through the loop you made earlier.
- Wet the knot (spit or water helps reduce friction).
- Pull tight, trim excess line, and you're ready to fish.
Common Mistakes with Crankbaits
Even experienced anglers sometimes make these errors:
- Using the wrong size crankbait for the fish species.
- Choosing colors that don't match the water conditions.
- Retrieving too fast or too slow for the situation.
- Ignoring water depth and using the wrong diving crankbait.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do crankbaits suspend?
Some crankbaits float, some sink, and some are designed to suspend at a certain depth. Check the lure description before using.
Q: Crankbait vs jerkbait, what's the difference?
Crankbaits dive and wobble with steady retrieves. Jerkbaits are worked with rod jerks, creating a darting side-to-side action.
Q: How deep do crankbaits dive?
It depends on the size of the bill. Shallow models may only reach 2–5 feet, while deep-divers can reach 15–25 feet or more.
Q: How to make fishing lures?
If you mean crafting your own lures, that's a specialized hobby involving molds, paints, and hooks. But if you're asking how to "make" a lure ready for fishing, it's as simple as tying it to your line. Follow the step-by-step guide above, and your crankbait is good to go.
Best Crankbaits from Fisher Lures
At Fisher Lures, we offer a wide range of crankbaits designed to suit different waters and species. From shallow square-bills to deep divers, our selection has been tested by anglers like you. Browse our crankbait collection and find the perfect one for your next trip.
Conclusion
Crankbaits are more than just another lure - they're one of the most effective tools in any angler's tackle box. By choosing the right type, tying it properly, and using the right technique, you'll be ready to land more fish and enjoy your time on the water.
Next time you're looking to upgrade your tackle, don't forget to explore our full crankbait catalog.