Looking to catch more smallmouth bass? Check out our selection of the best lures, including crankbaits, jigs, spinnerbaits, soft plastic baits, and . Get ready for a successful fishing trip!
Top Smallmouth Bass Lures
When it comes to fishing for smallmouth bass, having the right lures in your tackle box can make all the difference. Smallmouth bass are known for their aggressive nature and are often found in rocky areas or near structure. In this section, we will explore the that consistently produce results when targeting smallmouth bass. From crankbaits to , we have you covered.
Crankbaits
Crankbaits are a staple in any angler’s arsenal when it comes to targeting smallmouth bass. These lures mimic baitfish and can be retrieved at various speeds to imitate the movements of injured prey. There are different types of that work well for smallmouth bass, including deep diving crankbaits, shallow diving , and squarebill crankbaits.
Deep Diving Crankbaits
Deep diving are designed to reach depths where smallmouth bass often lurk. These lures typically have a larger lip that allows them to dive down quickly when retrieved. The key to using deep diving crankbaits effectively is to vary your retrieve speed and experiment with different depths until you find the sweet spot where the bass are biting.
Shallow Diving Crankbaits
Shallow diving crankbaits are perfect for fishing in shallower waters or areas with submerged vegetation. These lures have a smaller lip, which allows them to stay closer to the surface when retrieved. Shallow diving crankbaits are great for imitating baitfish near the shoreline or around structure where smallmouth bass tend to hide.
Squarebill Crankbaits
Squarebill crankbaits are a versatile option that can be used in a variety of fishing conditions. These lures have a square-shaped bill that causes them to deflect off cover, making them ideal for fishing around rocks, stumps, or fallen trees. Squarebill crankbaits create a unique wobbling action that triggers aggressive strikes from smallmouth bass.
Jigs
Jigs are another effective lure for targeting smallmouth bass. These versatile lures consist of a weighted head and a skirted or soft plastic trailer. Jigs can be fished in a variety of ways, making them a favorite among anglers. There are different types of that work well for smallmouth bass, including football jigs, swim jigs, and finesse jigs.
Football Jigs
Football jigs are designed to resemble a crawfish or a small baitfish. These jigs have a wide, flat head that allows them to stand up on the bottom, mimicking a crawfish in a defensive posture. Football jigs are perfect for dragging along rocky bottoms or through submerged vegetation, where smallmouth bass are often found feeding.
Swim Jigs
Swim jigs are designed to be retrieved at a steady pace, imitating a swimming baitfish. These jigs have a streamlined head and a weed guard to help navigate through cover. Swim jigs are highly effective when fished around submerged structure or in open water, where smallmouth bass are actively chasing prey.
Finesse Jigs
Finesse jigs are smaller in size and are perfect for when the bite gets tough. These jigs have a compact profile and a finesse-style skirt that imitates small prey. Finesse jigs are great for fishing in clear or pressured waters, where smallmouth bass can be more wary. They can be fished with a slow, subtle presentation to entice even the most finicky bass.
Spinnerbaits
Spinnerbaits are a go-to lure for many anglers targeting smallmouth bass. These lures consist of a metal blade that spins as it is retrieved, creating flash and vibration that attracts the attention of nearby bass. There are different types of spinnerbaits that work well for smallmouth bass, including tandem blade spinnerbaits, willowleaf blade spinnerbaits, and Colorado blade spinnerbaits.
Tandem Blade Spinnerbaits
Tandem blade spinnerbaits feature two blades, usually of different sizes or styles, that create a unique combination of flash and vibration. These spinnerbaits are great for covering water quickly and attracting aggressive strikes from smallmouth bass. Tandem blade spinnerbaits excel in murky or stained water conditions where visibility is reduced.
Willowleaf Blade Spinnerbaits
Willowleaf blade spinnerbaits have a single elongated blade that creates a lot of flash and less vibration. These spinnerbaits are great for fishing in clear water or when smallmouth bass are feeding on smaller baitfish. The slender blade allows for a faster retrieve speed without sacrificing the lure’s effectiveness.
Colorado Blade Spinnerbaits
Colorado blade spinnerbaits have a rounder, more cupped blade that produces a slower retrieve speed and more vibration. These spinnerbaits excel in darker water or when smallmouth bass are feeding primarily by vibration. The Colorado blade’s unique action can trigger strikes from smallmouth bass that may be less active or in a negative feeding mood.
Soft Plastic Baits
Soft plastic baits are incredibly versatile and can be rigged in a variety of ways to target smallmouth bass. From tubes to Senkos to creature baits, there is a soft plastic lure for every angler’s preference and fishing situation.
Tubes
Tubes are a popular choice among smallmouth bass anglers due to their lifelike appearance and versatility. These soft plastic baits mimic baitfish, crayfish, or other prey that smallmouth bass feed on. Tubes can be fished on a jighead, Texas-rigged, or even drop-shot rigged, allowing for different presentations and depths to be targeted.
Senkos
Senkos, or stick baits, are a simple yet effective soft plastic bait that consistently produces results. These slender worms can be rigged weightless, Texas-rigged, or wacky-rigged, giving them a unique and enticing action as they fall through the water column. Senkos are known for their slow, subtle movements that entice even the most cautious smallmouth bass.
Creature Baits
Creature baits are soft plastic lures that imitate various aquatic creatures, such as crawfish or lizards. These baits have multiple appendages and unique shapes that create a lot of action in the water. Creature baits can be Texas-rigged, Carolina-rigged, or used as a trailer on a jig. Their lifelike appearance and enticing movements make them a favorite among smallmouth bass anglers.
Topwater Lures
There’s nothing quite like the thrill of a topwater strike from a smallmouth bass. Topwater lures are designed to imitate prey that is on or near the water’s surface, creating a commotion that triggers aggressive strikes. There are different types of that work well for smallmouth bass, including popper lures, walking baits, and prop baits.
Popper Lures
Popper lures are designed to create a popping or splashing sound when retrieved. These lures have a concave face that displaces water, imitating the sound of prey struggling on the surface. Popper lures are great for fishing in calm water or during low light conditions when smallmouth bass are more likely to be feeding near the surface.
Walking Baits
Walking baits, also known as walk-the-dog lures, are designed to create a side-to-side, zigzagging action when retrieved. These lures have a slender profile and a weighted tail that allows them to “walk” across the water’s surface. Walking baits are highly effective when smallmouth bass are actively feeding on baitfish near the surface or in shallow waters.
Prop Baits
Prop baits feature one or more spinning blades that create a buzzing or churning sound when retrieved. These lures imitate injured prey or create a commotion that attracts the attention of smallmouth bass. Prop baits excel in calm water or when smallmouth bass are feeding on insects or other surface-dwelling prey. The spinning blades create a visual and auditory stimulus that is hard for bass to resist.
Crankbaits for Smallmouth Bass
When it comes to targeting smallmouth bass, crankbaits are an essential lure in every angler’s tackle box. These versatile lures are designed to mimic the movements and appearance of small baitfish, making them irresistible to hungry smallmouth bass. In this section, we will explore the different types of crankbaits that are most effective for catching smallmouth bass: deep diving crankbaits, shallow diving , and squarebill crankbaits.
Deep Diving Crankbaits
Deep diving crankbaits are a go-to choice for anglers who want to target smallmouth bass in deeper water. These lures are designed with a larger, more pronounced bill that allows them to dive down to impressive depths, reaching the strike zone where smallmouth bass often lurk. The key to using deep diving effectively is to locate the drop-offs, ledges, and underwater structures where smallmouth bass are likely to congregate.
When fishing with deep diving crankbaits, it’s important to pay attention to the depth range specified by the manufacturer. This will help you select the right lure for the depth you are fishing. Experimenting with different retrieve speeds can also make a difference in enticing smallmouth bass to strike. Slower retrieves are often more effective in colder water or when the bass are less active, while faster retrieves can trigger aggressive strikes in warmer water or when the bass are feeding aggressively.
Shallow Diving Crankbaits
Shallow diving are designed to target smallmouth bass in shallower water, such as rocky shorelines, submerged vegetation, and shallow flats. These lures have a shorter bill, which allows them to dive to shallower depths, typically between one to six feet. Shallow diving excel at imitating injured baitfish near the water’s surface, making them irresistible to hungry smallmouth bass.
When fishing with shallow diving crankbaits, accuracy is key. Cast close to shoreline cover, such as fallen trees, rocks, or docks, as smallmouth bass often hide in these areas to ambush their prey. Varying your retrieve speed can also be effective in triggering strikes. A steady retrieve can imitate a healthy baitfish, while a pause-and-go retrieve can mimic a wounded or struggling baitfish, which can trigger a smallmouth bass’s predatory instincts.
Squarebill Crankbaits
Squarebill are a must-have lure for any angler targeting smallmouth bass in shallow or medium-depth water. These lures feature a square-shaped bill that allows them to deflect off cover, such as rocks, stumps, or submerged logs, without getting snagged. This unique design makes squarebill perfect for fishing in areas with lots of structure or cover, where smallmouth bass often seek shelter.
When fishing with squarebill , it’s important to make contact with the cover as much as possible. This deflection off cover triggers reaction strikes from nearby smallmouth bass, who see the lure as an easy meal. Varying your retrieve speed and adding pauses to your retrieve can also be effective in enticing strikes. The erratic movements and deflections of the lure imitate a distressed baitfish, making it irresistible to hungry smallmouth bass.
Jigs for Smallmouth Bass
When it comes to targeting smallmouth bass, jigs are a must-have lure in your tackle box. These versatile lures can effectively imitate a variety of prey and entice even the most finicky smallmouth bass to bite. In this section, we will explore three types of jigs that are highly effective for catching smallmouth bass: football jigs, swim jigs, and finesse jigs.
Football Jigs
Football jigs are known for their unique head design, which resembles the shape of a football. This design allows the jig to glide smoothly across the bottom, imitating a crawfish or a small baitfish. Smallmouth bass are known to be bottom dwellers, and football jigs excel at targeting them in their preferred habitat.
One of the key advantages of football jigs is their ability to effectively cover a large area of the bottom. By dragging the jig along the bottom, you can mimic the natural movement of a crawfish, which is a favorite meal of smallmouth bass. Additionally, the bulky profile of football jigs makes them highly visible in murky water, increasing your chances of attracting a strike.
When fishing with football jigs, it’s important to choose the right color and trailer. Natural colors like green pumpkin or brown work well in most situations. Pair the jig with a crawfish or creature-style trailer to create a lifelike presentation that smallmouth bass find irresistible. Remember to vary your retrieve speed and experiment with different depths until you find the sweet spot.
Swim Jigs
Swim jigs are another excellent choice for targeting smallmouth bass in a variety of conditions. These jigs feature a streamlined head and a weed guard, making them perfect for fishing in areas with vegetation or cover. Swim jigs are designed to be retrieved at a steady pace, mimicking the movement of a swimming baitfish.
One of the key advantages of swim jigs is their versatility. They can be fished in shallow or deep water, and they excel at covering a large area quickly. Smallmouth bass are known to be aggressive predators, and swim jigs trigger their predatory instincts. The realistic swimming action combined with the flash of the jig’s skirt and trailer make it an irresistible meal for hungry smallmouth bass.
When fishing with swim jigs, it’s important to choose the right color and trailer. Natural colors like white, chartreuse, or shad patterns are effective in clear water, while darker colors like black or blue work well in stained or murky water. Pair the jig with a paddle-tail or swimbait-style trailer to create a realistic swimming action that will entice smallmouth bass to strike.
Finesse Jigs
Finesse jigs are smaller and more subtle than their football and swim jig counterparts. These jigs are perfect for targeting smallmouth bass in clear and calm waters, where a more finesse approach is required. Finesse jigs typically have a smaller profile and a lighter weight, allowing for a more delicate presentation.
One of the key advantages of finesse jigs is their ability to entice highly pressured smallmouth bass. These fish can become wary of larger, more intrusive lures, making finesse jigs a go-to option in challenging fishing conditions. Finesse jigs excel at imitating small baitfish or crawfish, and their subtle action can trigger strikes from even the most cautious smallmouth bass.
When fishing with finesse jigs, it’s important to choose the right color and trailer. Natural colors like green pumpkin or brown are effective in most situations. Pair the jig with a finesse-style trailer, such as a small craw or a finesse worm, to create a lifelike presentation that smallmouth bass cannot resist. Remember to use light line and a sensitive rod to detect the subtle strikes often associated with finesse jig fishing.
Spinnerbaits for Smallmouth Bass
When it comes to fishing for smallmouth bass, spinnerbaits are a must-have in your tackle box. These versatile lures are known for their ability to attract and entice smallmouth bass, making them a favorite among anglers. In this section, we will explore three types of spinnerbaits that have proven to be highly effective in catching smallmouth bass: tandem blade spinnerbaits, willowleaf blade spinnerbaits, and Colorado blade spinnerbaits.
Tandem Blade Spinnerbaits
Tandem blade spinnerbaits are a popular choice among anglers targeting smallmouth bass. As the name suggests, these spinnerbaits feature two blades attached to the body, creating a unique and enticing action in the water. The combination of two blades creates more flash and vibration, which can trigger aggressive strikes from smallmouth bass.
One of the key advantages of tandem blade spinnerbaits is their versatility. They can be fished at various depths and speeds, allowing you to adapt to different fishing conditions. Whether you’re fishing in shallow waters or targeting deeper structures, tandem blade spinnerbaits can effectively cover a wide range of water columns.
When selecting tandem blade spinnerbaits, pay attention to the size of the blades. Larger blades tend to create more vibration and flash, making them ideal for murky or stained water conditions. On the other hand, smaller blades work well in clear water where a more subtle presentation is required.
Willowleaf Blade Spinnerbaits
Willowleaf blade spinnerbaits are another excellent choice for targeting smallmouth bass. These spinnerbaits feature a single elongated blade that resembles a willow leaf, hence the name. The slender shape of the blade allows it to spin faster, creating a tight and rapid vibration in the water.
The fast-spinning action of willowleaf blade spinnerbaits makes them particularly effective in clear water conditions. The tight vibration and flash can grab the attention of smallmouth bass from a distance, triggering their predatory instincts. Willowleaf blade spinnerbaits are also great for covering large areas quickly, making them a go-to lure for locating active fish.
When fishing with willowleaf blade spinnerbaits, experiment with different retrieval speeds to find the sweet spot that entices the smallmouth bass. A faster retrieve can mimic a fleeing baitfish, while a slower retrieve can imitate a wounded or injured prey. Varying your retrieval speed can often be the key to triggering strikes from even the most finicky smallmouth bass.
Colorado Blade Spinnerbaits
The Colorado blade spinnerbaits are known for their versatility and ability to attract smallmouth bass in various fishing conditions. These spinnerbaits feature a round, concave blade that creates a distinct wobble and vibration in the water. The slower rotation of the Colorado blade produces a thumping action that smallmouth bass find irresistible.
The Colorado blade spinnerbaits excel in situations where a slower presentation is required. They are particularly effective in deeper water or when fishing in colder temperatures when smallmouth bass are less active. The slower action of the Colorado blade allows the lure to stay in the strike zone for a longer period, increasing your chances of enticing a bite.
When selecting Colorado blade spinnerbaits, consider the size and color of the blade. Larger blades create more water displacement and vibration, making them ideal for attracting smallmouth bass in murky or stained water. In clear water conditions, smaller blades can be more effective as they provide a more subtle presentation.
Soft Plastic Baits for Smallmouth Bass
Soft plastic baits are a must-have in every angler’s tackle box when it comes to targeting smallmouth bass. These versatile lures can imitate various prey species and are highly effective in enticing strikes from these feisty fish. In this section, we will explore three popular types of soft plastic baits that consistently produce impressive results: tubes, Senkos, and creature baits.
Tubes
Tubes are a go-to choice for many anglers targeting smallmouth bass, and for good reason. These bait imitations resemble crawfish or gobies, which are common prey for smallmouth bass. The hollow body of a tube allows for easy rigging and creates a tantalizing action in the water, attracting the attention of nearby bass.
One effective way to fish a tube is by using a jig head. The weight of the jig head helps to get the tube to the desired depth quickly, allowing you to cover more water efficiently. When fishing a tube, it’s crucial to mimic the natural movements of its prey. This can be achieved by imparting subtle twitches and hops to the bait, imitating the movements of a crawfish scurrying along the bottom or a goby darting in and out of crevices.
Senkos
Senkos, or stick baits, have gained immense popularity among smallmouth bass anglers in recent years. These straight, soft plastic worms have a unique action when falling through the water column, driving smallmouth bass crazy. Whether rigged weightless or on a weighted hook, Senkos have proven to be incredibly effective in enticing strikes from even the most finicky bass.
One of the best ways to fish a Senko is by utilizing a technique known as the “wacky rig.” This involves hooking the Senko in the middle, causing it to fall horizontally in the water. The slow, fluttering descent of the bait mimics a wounded or dying prey, triggering the predatory instincts of smallmouth bass. The wacky rig can be fished in various locations, such as around submerged vegetation, rocky structures, or along drop-offs.
Creature Baits
Creature baits are designed to resemble a variety of aquatic creatures, from crayfish to salamanders. These lures often feature multiple appendages, creating a lifelike appearance and enticing action in the water. The realistic movements of creature baits make them irresistible to smallmouth bass, who see them as a potential meal.
When fishing with creature baits, it’s important to experiment with different presentations. One effective technique is to rig the bait Texas-style with a bullet weight to allow it to sink to the desired depth. Once the bait is on the bottom, anglers can employ a slow, dragging retrieve, mimicking the natural movements of a creature crawling along the lake or river bed. Another effective method is to rig the bait on a jig head and hop it along the bottom, imitating the erratic movements of a fleeing prey.
Topwater Lures for Smallmouth Bass
When it comes to smallmouth bass fishing, can be incredibly effective in enticing these feisty fighters to strike. There’s something exhilarating about the explosive surface strikes that often elicit. In this section, we will explore three types of that have proven to be successful when targeting smallmouth bass: popper lures, walking baits, and prop baits.
Popper Lures
Poppers are a classic topwater lure that have been enticing smallmouth bass for decades. These lures are designed with a concave face that creates a popping sound and a splash when retrieved. The sudden commotion on the water’s surface imitates the sound of a struggling baitfish, which triggers the predatory instinct of smallmouth bass.
When fishing with popper lures, it’s important to create a rhythmic popping action by twitching the rod tip. This imparts an enticing movement to the lure, mimicking the erratic behavior of injured prey. The key is to pause between each pop to allow the ripples to dissipate before making the next retrieve. This gives the bass a chance to locate the source of the disturbance and strike.
Popular popper lure options for smallmouth bass include the Rebel Pop-R, the Heddon Chug’n Spook, and the Rapala Skitter Pop. These lures come in various sizes and colors, allowing anglers to match the hatch and adapt to different fishing conditions.
Walking Baits
Walking baits, also known as “walk-the-dog” lures, are another topwater favorite among smallmouth bass anglers. These lures are long and slender, with a tapered body and a flat nose. When retrieved, they create a side-to-side “walk-the-dog” action that mimics a wounded baitfish struggling on the surface.
To work a walking bait effectively, anglers need to use a rhythmic rod tip motion, imparting a left-to-right zigzag movement to the lure. This action creates a realistic depiction of a distressed prey item, triggering aggressive strikes from smallmouth bass. It’s crucial to maintain a steady retrieve speed and vary the length of the pauses between each rod tip twitch to find the most enticing cadence.
Some popular walking bait options for smallmouth bass include the Heddon Zara Spook, the Lucky Craft Sammy, and the Yo-Zuri 3DB Pencil. These lures are available in different sizes and color patterns, allowing anglers to experiment and find what works best on any given day.
Prop Baits
Prop baits are unique that feature one or more rotating blades on the lure’s rear end. These blades create a commotion on the water’s surface when retrieved, imitating the sound and appearance of fleeing baitfish. The spinning blades create vibrations that can be felt by smallmouth bass, drawing them in from a distance.
When fishing with prop baits, anglers can utilize a steady retrieve or incorporate pauses and twitches to imitate the movements of injured prey. The key is to experiment with different retrieve speeds and cadences to figure out what triggers the most strikes from smallmouth bass in a particular location.
Popular prop bait options for smallmouth bass include the Rebel Pop’n Frog, the Heddon Tiny Torpedo, and the River2Sea Whopper Plopper. These lures come in a variety of sizes and colors, allowing anglers to match the local forage and adapt to different fishing conditions.
In conclusion, can be highly effective in enticing smallmouth bass to strike. Whether you choose popper lures, walking baits, or prop baits, the key is to create a realistic presentation that imitates the movements and sounds of injured prey. Remember to experiment with different retrieve speeds, cadences, and colors to find what works best in your local fishing spots. So grab your , head out to the water, and get ready for some heart-pounding surface strikes from smallmouth bass!
