There are endless types of saltwater fishing lures on the market today but what is the best?
You would think that with all these options the perfect lure would have been created, but the truth is, the perfect lure doesn’t exist.
Truly great saltwater anglers know you need a wide selection of lures because so many factors are at play when fishing. Water temperature and clarity, the size and species of the fish and the color and size of the lure all affect how well your lure will perform. Read on to see the best 10 saltwater fishing lures of all time that get great reviews from experienced anglers.
Crank Bait Saltwater Fishing Lures
The crank bait originated in the bass fishing world but is becoming commonly used for other saltwater fish. These types of baits rely on their bright colors and a lifelike fish swimming movement to attract other fish. With a steel ball inside the bait rattles to attract and are often chosen in off-color water. This saltwater fishing lure is both simple to use and effective.
Hammered Spoon Saltwater Fishing Lures
The hammered spoon lure is effective like a traditional casting spoon, but with the ability to work in deeper water. These lures have a hammered finish for extra eye-catching reflection in the water. Hammered spoons are used for jigging, casting or trolling in several different types of species.
The Bucktail Jig Lure
The bucktail jig remains a hugely popular lure no matter what type of water you are fishing. This type of lure can work in both shallow and deep water and is a must in your collection of lures for all occasions. Depending on what size you choose you can catch striped bass, yellowtail, snook and more with a bucktail jig.
Lipped Plug Lure
The lipped plug has two options for the retrieve, allowing this type of bait to mimic a wounded baitfish or like forage trying to get away. With these two options you can attract fish with either erratic swimming action or the steady swimming action that attracts other predators. These types of saltwater fishing lures are built to bring in the biggest of saltwater giants so if you aim to catch something big make sure you have a lipped plug in your bait box.
Poppers
Poppers are a saltwater fishing lure that creates tremendous surface disturbance that can pull in bass and stripers from long distances. When retrieved erratically, the sound of a popper draws lots of attention, making it appear to be an easy meal. This type of topwater bait can also come with light attracting glitter strands for flash and has been regaled in fishing magazines for its great success in luring in bass.
More Tips on Selecting the Right Lure
- Don’t assume the flashiest lure will work the best. The action of the lure and the quality of construction comes first.
- If you’re fishing for a certain type of fish, know the common prey of that fish and choose a lure that mimics that fish’s size.
- A good general rule is use slow-moving bait in cold water and fast moving bait in warmer water.