Get the inside scoop on the best . Discover the different types of lures and when choosing them. Plus, learn tips and techniques for using lures in different surf fishing conditions.
Types of Lures for Surf Fishing
Surf fishing is an exciting and rewarding activity that requires skill, patience, and the right equipment. One of the most important pieces of equipment for surf fishing is the lure. Lures are designed to mimic the prey of the fish and attract them to your line. There are several types of lures designed for surf fishing, each with its own unique features and benefits.
Topwater Lures
Topwater lures are designed to float on the surface of the water and create a commotion that attracts the fish. These lures are perfect for targeting predatory fish like striped bass, bluefish, and redfish. Topwater lures come in a variety of shapes and sizes, including poppers, chuggers, and walkers. Poppers make a popping noise when you twitch the rod, while chuggers create a splashing noise. Walkers have a side-to-side motion that imitates a wounded baitfish.
Jigs
Jigs are versatile lures that can be used in a variety of fishing conditions. They are designed to imitate baitfish, squid, and other prey that fish feed on. Jigs come in many shapes and sizes, including bucktail jigs, leadhead jigs, and jigging spoons. Bucktail jigs have a skirt made of deer hair, while leadhead jigs have a lead weight on the bottom. Jigging spoons are designed to flutter and flash as they sink, imitating a wounded baitfish.
Soft Plastic Baits
Soft plastic baits are a popular choice for surf fishing because they are versatile and can be used in a variety of conditions. They are made of a soft, pliable material that imitates the texture and movement of live bait. Soft plastic baits come in a variety of shapes and sizes, including worms, grubs, and swimbaits. They can be rigged on a jighead, weighted hook, or Carolina rig.
Crankbaits
Crankbaits are designed to imitate the movement of baitfish and are ideal for targeting predatory fish like bass and trout. They are designed to dive to a specific depth and have a lip that creates a wobbling action as you retrieve them. Crankbaits come in a variety of shapes and sizes, including square-bill, round-bill, and lipless crankbaits. Square-bill crankbaits are designed to bounce off cover, while lipless crankbaits sink slowly and create a vibration that attracts fish.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Lures for Surf Fishing
When preparing for a day of surf fishing, choosing the right lures can make all the difference. Factors to consider include water clarity, targeted fish species, time of day, and weather conditions.
Water Clarity
Water clarity plays a significant role in determining which lures to use. In clear water, lures with natural colors and realistic movements are ideal. Fish in clear water have a better view of their surroundings and can easily spot artificial lures that don’t look natural. When fishing in murky water, brightly colored lures or those that produce vibration and noise are more effective. The fish rely less on sight and more on their other senses to locate prey.
Targeted Fish Species
Different fish species are attracted to different types of lures. For example, topwater lures are ideal for catching surface-feeding fish like striped bass and bluefish, while jigs are more effective for bottom-feeding fish like flounder and sea bass. Soft plastic baits are versatile and can be used for a variety of fish species, but they are particularly effective for catching redfish and trout. It’s important to research the fish species you are targeting and choose lures accordingly.
Time of Day
The time of day also affects the type of lures that are most effective. In the early morning and late afternoon, when the sun is low, topwater lures are particularly effective. The low light conditions make it easier for fish to spot the lures on the surface. During the middle of the day, when the sun is high, lures that dive deeper in the water column are more effective. This is because the fish tend to move deeper to escape the bright sunlight.
Weather Conditions
Finally, weather conditions can also play a role in lure selection. On calm, sunny days, lures that mimic small baitfish or other prey are effective. On overcast or choppy days, lures that produce more vibration and noise are better suited. When fishing in windy conditions, heavier lures that can cut through the wind are ideal. Finally, when fishing at night, lures that produce light or sound are more effective, as fish rely more on their other senses in the dark.
Tips for Using Lures in Surf Fishing
Fishing with lures can be a fun and exciting way to catch fish in the surf. However, there are certain tips and techniques that can help increase your chances of success. In this section, we will discuss some tips for using lures in surf fishing.
Vary Your Retrieval Speed
One of the most important things to keep in mind when using lures in surf fishing is to vary your retrieval speed. Different types of fish will be attracted to different speeds of movement. For example, some fish prefer a slow, steady retrieve, while others prefer a faster retrieve with a lot of movement. Experiment with different speeds to see what works best for the fish you are targeting.
Use a Teaser
Another tip for using lures in surf fishing is to use a teaser. A teaser is a smaller lure that is attached to the main lure. It is designed to attract fish to the area and get them interested in the main lure. This can be especially effective when fishing for species that are more difficult to catch, as it can help to entice them to bite.
Experiment with Different Lures
It’s important to experiment with different types of lures when surf fishing. Different types of fish will be attracted to different types of lures. For example, topwater lures are great for targeting fish that are feeding on the surface, while jigs are better for targeting fish that are feeding on the bottom. Soft plastic baits and crankbaits are also effective for different types of fish. Try different types of lures to see what works best for the species you are targeting.
Pay Attention to the Tide
Finally, it’s important to pay attention to the tide when surf fishing with lures. Different types of fish will be more active at different times of the tide. For example, some fish are more active during incoming tides, while others are more active during outgoing tides. By paying attention to the tide, you can increase your chances of catching fish.
Best Lures for Different Surf Fishing Conditions
When it comes to surf fishing, the type of lure you use can make all the difference in your success. Different conditions call for different lures, and it’s important to choose the right one for the job. In this section, we’ll take a look at the best lures for four different surf fishing conditions: sunny and calm, overcast and choppy, windy, and nighttime fishing.
Sunny and Calm Conditions
When the sun is shining and the water is calm, fish tend to be more cautious and selective about what they bite. This is where finesse lures come in handy. Some of the best lures for sunny and calm conditions include:
- Finesse Worms – These soft plastic baits are great for mimicking the action of a real worm, and can be rigged weedless for fishing in shallow water.
- Flukes – These soft plastic baits have a lifelike swimming action that can entice finicky fish. Try rigging them on a jighead or weightless for best results.
- Crankbaits – Small crankbaits in natural colors can be effective in clear water, especially if they mimic the baitfish in the area.
Overcast and Choppy Conditions
When the water is choppy and the sky is overcast, fish tend to be more active and aggressive. This is where you can break out the bigger lures and go for something that makes more noise and creates more disturbance in the water. Some of the best lures for overcast and choppy conditions include:
- Topwater Lures – These lures create a commotion on the surface of the water that can attract fish from a distance. Try using a popper or a walking bait for best results.
- Jigs – Jigs can be fished at various depths and can imitate different types of baitfish. Try using a jig with a swimming tail for a more natural presentation.
- Soft Plastic Baits – When the water is choppy, fish tend to be more aggressive and will attack anything that looks like food. Try using a larger soft plastic bait in a bright color to catch their attention.
Windy Conditions
When the wind is blowing, fish tend to hide in calmer waters or behind structures like jetties or rocks. This is where you can use lures that can be fished close to the bottom or structures. Some of the best lures for windy conditions include:
- Jigs – Jigs can be fished close to the bottom and can imitate different types of baitfish. Try using a jig with a weedguard to avoid getting snagged on rocks or other structures.
- Soft Plastic Baits – Soft plastic baits that mimic crabs or other bottom-dwelling creatures can be effective in windy conditions. Try fishing them slowly along the bottom for best results.
- Crankbaits – Small crankbaits in natural colors can be effective in clear or slightly murky water, especially if they mimic the baitfish in the area.
Nighttime Fishing
When fishing at night, it’s important to use lures that make noise and can be seen in low light conditions. Some of the best lures for nighttime fishing include:
- Glow-in-the-dark Lures – These lures can be seen in low light conditions and can attract fish from a distance. Try using a glow-in-the-dark jighead or soft plastic bait for best results.
- Spinnerbaits – Spinnerbaits create a lot of vibration and can be seen in low light conditions. Try using a spinnerbait with a Colorado blade for a slower, more subtle presentation.
- Topwater Lures – Topwater lures that make noise and create a commotion on the surface of the water can be effective at night. Try using a buzzbait or a walking bait for best results.
Techniques for Surf Fishing with Lures
Surf fishing with lures can be an exciting experience, but it requires the right techniques to be successful. There are different ways to use lures, and each technique has its benefits and drawbacks. Here are some popular techniques for surf fishing with lures:
Walking the Dog
Walking the dog is a popular technique used when fishing with topwater lures. It involves creating a zigzag motion across the surface of the water to mimic a fleeing baitfish. To walk the dog, you need to cast your lure and retrieve it by twitching your rod tip while reeling in the line slowly. The lure will move in a zigzag pattern, creating a commotion that attracts fish. This technique is effective for catching striped bass, bluefish, and other predatory fish.
Bottom Bouncing
Bottom bouncing is a technique used when fishing with jigs or soft plastic baits. It involves bouncing your lure along the bottom of the ocean floor to mimic a crab or other bottom-dwelling prey. To bottom bounce, you need to cast your lure and let it sink to the bottom. Then, lift your rod tip slowly, allowing the lure to bounce along the bottom as you reel in the line. The key is to keep the lure in contact with the bottom at all times. This technique is effective for catching flounder, sea bass, and other bottom-dwelling fish.
Jigging
Jigging is a versatile technique used when fishing with jigs or soft plastic baits. It involves creating an up-and-down motion that mimics the movement of a wounded baitfish. To jig, you need to cast your lure and let it sink to the desired depth. Then, lift your rod tip sharply and let it fall back down, creating a jigging motion. This technique can be used at different depths and speeds, making it effective for catching a variety of fish species.
Slow Rolling
Slow rolling is a technique used when fishing with crankbaits. It involves reeling in your lure slowly, creating a steady and natural movement that mimics a swimming baitfish. To slow roll, you need to cast your lure and retrieve it slowly, keeping it close to the bottom or just above it. This technique is effective for catching striped bass, bluefish, and other predatory fish.
In conclusion, surf fishing with lures can be a thrilling experience, but it requires the right techniques to be successful. Walking the dog, bottom bouncing, jigging, and slow rolling are popular techniques used by anglers to catch a variety of fish species. Each technique requires different gear and skills, so it’s essential to practice and experiment to find what works best for you. With the right techniques and a bit of luck, you can have a successful surf fishing trip and catch some trophy fish.
