Which Fishing Lure to Use
Do you ever find yourself wondering which fishing lure to pick before heading out to the water? With so many types of lures out there, it can be confusing for hobby anglers to know where to start. The good news is that choosing the right fishing lure doesn’t have to be complicated. By understanding the most common fish species in America and matching them with the right lure category, you’ll boost your chances of success on your next trip.
Let’s look at three essential types of fishing lures—crankbait lures, luminous and glowing lures, and squid lures—and see which ones work best for the fish you’re most likely to catch.
Popular Fish in America and Their Best Lures
Here’s a quick guide to the most common species, which fishing lure works best for them, and when they’re in season:
| Fish Species | Best Lure Category | Peak Season (U.S.) | Notes for Anglers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bass (Largemouth/Smallmouth) | Crankbait lure | Spring (Apr–Jun), Fall (Sep–Nov) | Loves wobbling action in lakes and rivers. |
| Walleye | Crankbait lure | Spring (May–Jun), Fall nights | Active at low light, especially with diving crankbaits. |
| Pike | Crankbait lure | Spring (Apr–May), Fall (Sep–Oct) | Aggressive strikes in cooler water. |
| Catfish | Luminous/Glowing lure | Summer (Jun–Aug), Nighttime | Glow helps attract bottom feeders in dark waters. |
| Striped Bass | Luminous/Glowing lure | Spring (Apr–Jun), Fall runs (Sep–Nov) | Night fishing is especially productive. |
| Salmon | Luminous/Glowing lure | Late Summer (Jul–Sep), Fall (Sep–Oct) | Flash and glow mimic baitfish. |
| Tuna | Squid lure | Summer (Jun–Aug), Offshore trips | Bright squid patterns excel while trolling. |
| Mahi-Mahi | Squid lure | Summer (Jun–Aug), Offshore trips | Attracted to flashy squid near weed lines. |
| Grouper | Squid lure | Year-round (best in Winter) | Prefers natural-colored squid lures near reefs. |
Crankbait Lures: A Favorite for Freshwater Fishing
If you enjoy fishing in lakes or rivers, crankbait lures are a must-have. These hard-bodied lures imitate small fish and create a wobbling motion that triggers predatory strikes. They’re especially effective for species like bass, walleye, and pike.
| Fishing Conditions | Crankbait Choice | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Clear water | Natural colors (shad, bluegill) | Looks realistic to fish. |
| Murky water | Bright/chartreuse | Easier for fish to spot. |
| Cold water | Small, tight wobble crankbait | Matches slower fish behavior. |
| Warm water | Large, wide wobble crankbait | Attracts active, aggressive fish. |
Luminous and Glowing Lures: Perfect for Night Fishing
These fishing lures shine underwater and attract fish in low-light conditions. They’re excellent for catfish, striped bass, and salmon.
| Best Time to Use | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Night fishing | Glow attracts fish when visibility is low. |
| Cloudy days | Mimics flashes of baitfish. |
| Murky water | Easy for fish to find in dark conditions. |
Squid Lures: A Saltwater Essential
Squid lures are your go-to option for tuna, mahi-mahi, and grouper. Their movement and colors make them irresistible to larger saltwater predators.
| Fishing Setup | Squid Lure Choice | Target Fish |
|---|---|---|
| Trolling offshore | Bright/flashy squid lure | Tuna, Mahi-Mahi |
| Reef fishing | Natural-colored squid lure | Grouper |
| Open water | Mix of bright and natural | Attracts a wider range |
Final Thoughts
Fishing is about more than just luck—it’s about preparation and the right tools. Whether you’re casting from a lake dock, drifting down a river, or heading out to sea, choosing the right fishing lure makes all the difference.
By matching your fishing lure to your target species and the season, you’ll increase your chances of success:
-
Freshwater fish in spring/fall → Crankbait lures
-
Night or murky waters → Luminous and glowing lures
-
Saltwater predators in summer → Squid lures
If you’re ready to upgrade your tackle box, explore versatile lure sets designed for both beginners and experienced anglers. The right fishing lure can turn an ordinary day on the water into a memorable adventure.