Artificial Lure Fishing: The Angler's Guide

The use of artificial bait is more complex a technique than it sounds. It is a real art that requires careful consideration of numerous factors, the first of which is choosing the appropriate bait among many options. 

Although artificial lures are used daily for various techniques and ways of fishing, exclusive reliance on these lure types is an approach that gathers many anglers.

It follows a unique assembly of the gear, maneuvering, and access to the fish following the selected type of artificial bait. Shapes, colors, material, all of that can be very overwhelming, no matter how creative it is at the same time.

If you are eager to know what makes fishing with artificial lures so special, what the advantages are, and how to make the best of them and increase the productivity of your fishing – this guide will explain it all to you. Let's dive into the colorful world of lure fishing.

Understanding Artificial Lure Fishing

Before casting a hook with artificial baits, you must master the subtleties of bait selection and manipulation. You must know that every type of bait, from crankbaits to soft plastics, is designed to imitate the fish's natural prey, attracting it with its lifelike movements and vivid colors. 

To show maximum imitation, the angler must understand the water conditions and the behavior of the fish and adjust the rhythm, precision, and overall maneuver of his cast, primarily ensuring that the bait falls in the target area without making too much noise. 

This means a kind of introduction: carefully observing the water in search of signs of the presence of fish. These signs include fish movement, shadows, or occasional fish surfacing.

Why Use Artificial Lure

Artificial lures are primarily practical and extremely versatile. They are available in all price ranges and different shapes, colors, and sizes, which gives fishermen a lot of freedom and customization options. 

It is practical, long-lasting, and can be used multiple times. Unlike live bait, which can be challenging to store and maintain, artificial lures can be used repeatedly, which can be profitable in the long run. They are also resistant to different water conditions and can be used in different seasons.

Although it may not be immediately apparent, artificial baits also have an ecological aspect. Their use can reduce the pressure on natural populations of live baits, thereby contributing to the preservation of the ecosystem. However, this does not mean that they should be left in the water; on the contrary, it is important to ensure that parts of the bait do not pollute the water.

Fishing with artificial lures is not just about catching fish; it's about unleashing your creativity and innovation. You can experiment with different casting and pulling techniques, bait modifications, and even design your own lures. This freedom to innovate is what makes artificial lure fishing so exciting and inspiring.

When to Use Artificial Lure Fishing

Artificial baits are handy during the change of seasons. When fish actively seek food in spring and fall, baits that imitate insects, small fish, or other natural prey can be highly effective. In the summer, fish are often found in deeper water, and deep-diving lures can help them reach these layers. Also, artificial lures are ideal for fishing in murky or dark waters, where their vivid colors and movements can attract fish's attention.

During warm summer days or cold winter nights, lures with slow and steady movements can imitate vulnerable prey, which provokes a reaction from the fish. They have also proven excellent for fishing in areas with dense vegetation or obstacles, where live bait can be challenging to access. There is almost no situation where these lures can't be taken advantage of, and it's no wonder they're so popular.

Why Fish Gather on Artificial Lure Fishing

They gather because they are naturally curious, especially if they are not overly cautious and timid by nature, but also because of their fishing instinct and reaction to certain stimuli. Artificial baits are designed to imitate the appearance, movements, and sounds of natural fish prey, and all elements of color, shape, and texture are carefully selected to resemble insects, small fish, and other organisms that fish feed on.

The more the bait looks like something a fish would normally eat, the more likely the fish will be attracted to it and try to catch it. 

Artificial lures can be designed to create different types of movement in the water, from slow and steady to fast and unpredictable. They perfectly simulate the behavior of injured or fleeing prey.

When pulled through the water, many artificial lures have built-in elements that create sounds or vibrations. Fish can detect these stimuli even in murky or dark conditions, attracting them to the bait.

Fish Species Commonly Caught by Artificial Lure Fishing

Artificial baits are highly effective for catching a wide range of fish species, as they are often irreplaceable, even with the best selection of live baits. You can use them to hunt fish in fresh or saltwater, and there is no limit to the fish species. Here are some of the most common types of fish that are often caught using artificial lures:

• Bass: Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass are among the most common fish caught with artificial baits. Known for their aggressiveness and strong instinct, they attack crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and soft plastics.

• Trout: Brown, Spotted, or Speckled Trout will all respond to artificial baits that imitate insects or small fish. These baits include spinners and small imitations of fish (jigs).

• Pike: Pike is a predatory fish attracted to large, shiny artificial baits such as jerk baits, spoons, and spinnerbaits.

• Catfish: Catfish, Channel, Blue, and Flathead can be caught with artificial baits that create vibrations and sounds, such as crankbaits and spoons.

• Salmon: These famous and delicious fish are often caught using artificial lures during migrations. Baits such as spoons, plows, and specialized trolling lures are popular for Salmon fishing.

• Crappie: Crappie is a favorite fish of sport anglers, often caught using small artificial lures such as jigs and spinnerbaits.

• Walleye: This fish has very sharp teeth and will often aggressively attack artificial baits such as crankbaits, jigs, and worms.

• Bluegill and Sunfish: These smaller fish are often attracted to small spinnerbaits, soft plastics, and artificial worms.

Of course, depending on your preferred technique and where you are, you can also hunt larger species such as Tuna, Marlin, or Swordfish. What is certain is that the answering baits are fast.

Essential Gear Used for Artificial Lure Fishing

Given the comprehensiveness and breadth of the technique, you can use and combine any type of rod or reel you find on the market. To know more details about the gear, keep reading.

Rods

You can use most of the rods you can find on the market, and most anglers generally opt for one of the following.

• Spinning Rods: Probably the most famous and best-selling fishing rod ever. And for a good reason: they are light enough, versatile, and easy to use. They are used with spinning machines placed under the rod, allowing easier handling and control of the bait and for angling Bass, Trout, and other smaller species.

• Baitcasting Rods: Designed for heavier baits and larger fish, baitcasting rods enable more accurate casting and better control over the bait. They require a little more skill for proper handling, but they are very effective for fishing Pike, Catfish, and other large predatory fish.

• Ultralight Rods: They are designed for fishing smaller fish and are used with very light baits. They are ideal for fishing for Trout, Bluegill, Crappies, and other smaller species. Perfect for fishing in shallow waters, streams, and lakes where precision and delicacy are key.

• Telescopic Rods: Practical and easily portable, making them ideal for anglers who travel a lot or don't have much space to store their gear. They provide flexibility in various situations.

• Rods for Topwater Fishing: Specially designed for using baits that swim on the water's surface. They are usually medium to heavy weight, with a faster action that allows for a quick reaction to bites. 

The rod choice depends not only on the type of fish you are targeting, the type and conditions of fishing, and your fishing style.

Reels

Like rods, you don't have to struggle a lot when choosing the right machines. Each has its advantages and specific characteristics that suit different fishing setups and styles of artificial lure fishing. 

• Spinning Reels: The most popular type of machine among anglers of all skill levels. They are placed under the rod and are ideal for light to medium-weight artificial lures. They provide precise casting and easy handling, making them the perfect choice for fishing for Bass, Trout, Crappies, and other small to medium-sized fish. 

• Baitcasting Reels: These reels are placed above the rod and are intended for fishing with heavy baits and large predatory fish. They offer precise control over bait and casting but require more skill to handle properly. They are highly popular among experienced anglers who hunt for Pike, Catfish, and other large fish. 

• Spincast Reels: They are easy to use and ideal for beginners. They combine the characteristics of spinning and baitcasting machines but with a closed housing that reduces line tangling. It is easy to handle with only one casting button and will provide the necessary ease of fishing for smaller fish such as Bluegill, Crappie, and smaller Bass.

• Fly Fishing Reels: A famous technique that relies on artificial flies; these reels have a simple design with a free spool and are used with special fly fishing rods and lines. The main advantage is the precision and delicacy required for the fly's presentation on the water's surface.

• Trolling Reels: Trolling machines are robust and designed for fishing from a moving boat. They use heavy lines and large baits, ideal for catching large sea fish such as Tuna, Salmon, and Wahoo. Trolling machines have large line capacities and powerful brakes that enable control during long battles with large fish.

The choice of the appropriate machine depends on the type of fish you are targeting, the fishing conditions, and your skill level. Understanding the different types of rigs and their characteristics will help you improve your fishing skills and achieve better results on the water.

Lines

Among other things, the artificial bait must be well supported by an appropriate line, both of which will graze with the weight of the bait and the habits and intensity of the target fish. Several types of lines, each with its own specific characteristics, are most often chosen when fishing with artificial baits.

• Nylon Lines: The most commonly used string type due to its versatility and easy handling. Elasticity helps soften fish strikes, reduces the risk of cracking, and is resistant to UV radiation and abrasion but may be less durable than braids and fluorocarbons.

• Braided Lines: They are extremely strong and minimally stretchy. They consist of several thin fibers woven together, which makes them extremely strong and resistant to wear. They enable precise casting and quick reaction, which makes them ideal for fishing with heavy baits and large predatory fish such as pike and catfish. 

• Fluorocarbon Line: Its primary feature is its low water visibility, making it an excellent choice for fishing in clear waters or when the fish are particularly wary. This string is also resistant to abrasion and chemical influences, making it more durable. The fluorocarbon line is excellent for use as a leader in combination with a braided line, allowing for discreet bait presentation and resistance to sharp edges and obstacles in the water.

• Combo Line: Some anglers use a combination of different string types to take advantage of each. There are some, so you can combine the braid for the main line with the fluorocarbon leader, which can provide strength, precision, and minimal visibility in the water. 

The line choice depends on the type of fish you are targeting, the conditions of the water, and your personal preferences. Understanding the different types of lines and their characteristics will help you choose the right line for your fishing style and increase your chances of success on the water.

Rigs

Proper rig placement also means the best possible bait presentation. Here are the most commonly used rigs, briefly explaining how to use them in an artificial bait setup.

• Texas Rig: An excellent choice for fishing with softer artificial lures such as plastic worms or maggots. It consists of a hook buried in the bait's body while the lead is placed on the string before the hook. In this way, the bait can move through vegetation and other obstacles without tangling.

• Carolina Rig: Quite similar to Carolina rigs, with a longer line between the lead and the hook, allowing the lure to move freely around the lead. It is effective for fishing in open water and on the bottom, allowing the bait to move naturally and imitate the prey.

• Drop Shot Rig: This extremely accurate rig allows the bait to hang above the bottom, which is useful when focusing on fish that live close to the bottom. It uses a small hook at the end of the line while the lead is tied at the bottom, allowing the bait to move above the bottom. It is excellent for fishing with light baits such as small plastic worms and is often used for Trout, Bass, and Crappies.

• Wacky Rig: A simple and efficient rig for use with plastic worms. It sits horizontally on the hook in the middle, allowing it to move and shake naturally during the pull. Excellent for attracting fish that are on the bottom.

• Jig Head Rig: This type uses a hook with built-in weights, which allow the bait to move vertically and imitate the prey. It is very versatile and can be used with various baits, including plastic worms, small fish, and other shapes.

• Ned Rig: This rig uses a small plastic bait, often with a small jig head, then placed on a short line. Known for its slow and steady movement, it can be very attractive to cautious or passive fish.

You can often experiment with rigs, but this also means that you have to know the underwater structure of the location where you are fishing.

Hooks

The choice of hook affects the efficiency of casting, the presentation of the bait, and the success of catching fish. Here are the most commonly used types of hooks during artificial bait fishing and their application:

• Standard Jig Hooks: They are used with jigs and so-called baits with a head. They are curved and can be found in different sizes and weights. They are ideal for bottom fishing and use with various plastic worms and minnows. They provide the stability and strength needed to catch multiple fish, including Bass, Trout, and Crappies.

• Circle Hooks: These are designed to automatically hook in the corner of the fish's mouth, often in the lip area. They are ideal for bottom fishing and for use with large baits, such as worms, squid, or fish. They are especially useful for fishing large fish such as catfish and tuna, as they reduce the risk of injury and increase the chances of successful release.

• Treble Hooks: Famous hooks are composed of three sharp points, often used with artificial baits such as crankbait and spinnerbait. Due to their multi-point design, they provide a better chance of hooking fish.

• Worm Hooks: They primarily use soft plastic baits such as worms or maggots. They have a curved shape with a wide opening and are often fitted with a closed point to help hold the lure in place.

• Drop Shot Hooks: Used with a drop shot rig, the hook is placed on a short leader above the lead. They are usually small and sharp, enabling precise presentation of light baits above the bottom.

• Ewg Hooks (Extra Wide Gap): These hooks are characterized by a wider gap between the hook and the rod, which enables a better presentation of artificial lures and reduces the possibility of entanglement. They are ideal for large plastic baits, such as worms, and are often used for Texas rigs.

The choice of hook depends on the type of artificial bait you use, the type of fish you are targeting, and the fishing conditions. Don't forget that if you want to avoid killing the fish, you have to use the right hooks.

Essential Lures for Artificial Lure Fishing

There is something endlessly playful and cheerful but creative in the seemingly flawless selection of various artificial lures. However, they often differ because it is different to fish in salt and fresh waters. Let's take a closer look at both types.

Saltwater

Saltwater fishing requires artificial baits that can withstand harsh conditions and attract sea fish. Saltwater, whether inshore or offshore, presents unique challenges and opportunities for fishing.

• Worms and Squids: Worms and squids primarily catch larger marine fish, including Groupers, Snapper, and Tuna. They are attractive because of their natural color and movement, which imitate authentic seafood.

• Silicone Lures: This group includes soft-plastic lures in the shape of fish or crabs, perfect for fishing with floats and jigs. They are incredibly versatile and can imitate different fish and sea creatures.

• Jigs and Weight Lures: Jigs with heavy lead are used in deep water and fast currents and for fishing for large predatory fish, such as lobster, Tuna, and Swordfish.

• Hard Lures: These include crankbaits and poppers, and are effective for attracting fish that hunt in surface layers or in medium depths.

• Metal Lures: Also known as spoons, they produce reflective light and vibrations that imitate fish or other seafood. Due to their ability to lure fish from distance and depth, they are effective for fishing at great depths and can attract marine fish, including Tuna and Swordfish.
  

Trying different lures and techniques to find what works best for you in saltwater is a good idea. As always, remember not to leave behind pieces of lures since they can harm and pollute sensitive water life. 

Freshwater

Lure fishing in freshwater, such as lakes, rivers, and streams, offers different challenges and opportunities compared to saltwater. Various types of baits are available on the market, designed to respond to freshwater fish's specific eating habits and preferences.

• Plastic Worms and Crabs: Extremely popular for fishing for Bass, Trout, and other freshwater fish. Movements and colors can imitate natural prey and attract fish in different conditions in rivers or lakes.

• Spinnerbaits and Crankbaits: These are excellent for attracting fish during active feeding stages. They produce vibrations and movements that trigger instinctive attacks from fish such as Bass and Pike.

• Soft Baits and Wobblers: These include imitation minnows and wobblers; they are used for fishing at different depths and conditions and are suitable for angling smaller fish such as Crappies and Bluegill.

• Hard Baits: Hard baits, such as jerk baits and poppers, are used for surface fishing on or in the middle layer of water. Their fast movements and sounds can attract fish such as Bass and Pike.

• Ball Baits (Swimbaits): These are often in the form of fish with moving parts. They imitate natural swimming prey and are effective for fishing large predators.

Familiarize yourself with the different types of lures and their advantages to adapt your fishing techniques to the specific needs of freshwater fish.

Where to Do Artificial Lure Fishing

Fishing with artificial baits leaves enough space for various combinations and experimentations, and the same is true with locations. You can give vent to your favorite fishing combination in various places. 

Coastal Zones

Sea and ocean coastal areas are diverse, with various mini-ecosystems, such as beaches, estuaries, and mangroves, each providing a different underwater environment and benefits for other fish species. 

So here you can fish in the so-called brackish waters, endless crystal clear beaches where artificial baits will bring you luck and prey in the form of fish such as Snapper, Bass, and even Sharks. For such vicious species, using lures such as spinnerbaits, jigs, and metal baits is a good option.

Open Sea

Depending on how experienced you are, the open waters of the sea and ocean can be a challenging pleasure or a hard-to-handle fishing action for you. 

All fish can await you here, both pleasant and unpleasant, and considering the depth, strength of the current and various underwater structures, it is best to use artificial lures such as larger crankbaits, poppers, and jigs are effective for angling large predators such as Tuna and Swordfish. These types are suitable for trolling or jigging equipment and are prevalent in these conditions.

Lakes 

Lakes are often complex areas that can hide great depths and are only sometimes safe as underwater structures lure under the calm surface. It is also true that they are often vibrant with various fish species, primarily Bass, Pike, and Crappies. For them, artificial baits such as plastic worms, spinnerbaits, and wobblers suit areas with lush vegetation or more cloudy waters.

Rivers and Streams

Lakes, rivers, and streams can be complex and unpredictable, especially if you don't know them. However, if the rivers are healthy and nutritionally rich, you can almost always bottle Trout, Bluegill, or Pike and catch them on small plastic fish, soft lures, and spinnerbaits.

Specific Artificial Lure Strategies 

Any strategy that relies on artificial bait is maximally adapted to the target fish. Consequently, in addition to choosing the bait, it must be presented so the fish will notice it and bite.

Fast Retrieve

This technique relies on the fast pulling of spinnerbaits and crankbaits to create an intense visual and vibrational effect. It is performed so that you immediately start with a quick pull as soon as the bait is thrown into the water. This speed should be enough to cause vibrations and rotation on a spinnerbait or rapid oscillations on a crankbait. 

Maintain a constant pull rate so the bait continuously produces sound and movement that attracts fish. It is especially effective when the fish are in an active state, for example, during spring and autumn when they are in intensive feeding phases.

Slow Retrieve

It is based on the same kind of lure as a fast retrieve. The difference is rhythm, so here, this lure imitates slow-swimming prey and can be very effective when the fish shows reduced activity and, in general, for less aggressive fish. 

After casting the bait, you pull it in slowly, maintaining a calm and steady pace. This allows the lure to move naturally and create minimal vibration. Combine them with occasional pauses to allow the bait to stop and start again naturally. It is ideal for conditions when the fish are inactive, such as during summer or in colder waters.

Vertical Jigging

It is used for fishing in deep water and involves raising and lowering jigs in a vertical water column. This is how prey that moves or fights is imitated and is often effective in attracting large predators such as Tuna and Swordfish. 

The jig is lowered to the bottom of the water and then raised vertically, using fast and energetic movements. Once the desired height is reached, let the jig sink back to the bottom. Add occasional pauses when lowering and raising jigs, as tempo changes can mimic prey that struggles or is close to death.

Jigging in a Zig-Zag Pattern

The technique of jigging in zigzag movements imitates a swimming prey that moves irregularly, frenetically, as if it is scared. The jig is lowered to the bottom and then pulled in zigzag movements, which consist of rapid changes of direction and rhythm. 

Experiment with the intensity and speed of the zigzag motion to find the most effective pattern for fish that respond to fast and dynamic changes in movement, such as Pike, Crappie, and some Bass.

Final Thoughts

What's more, you can't say that fishing with artificial lures isn't an exciting and dynamic way to connect with the aquatic world. Each strategy brings its challenges but also unique rewards. It is also true that only some people like artificial lures, but they are sometimes unavoidable in modern fishing, and no one can dispute their effectiveness. 

We would love to hear your opinions and experiences with lure fishing. Share your favorite techniques, success stories, and photos in the comments below. Your insights can inspire and assist other anglers on their journey, helping them hone their skills and enrich their fishing adventures!