Types of Fishing Lures

The best way to catch any fish is to use a lure, and they can be super effective for just about any species of fish. Lures are simply artificial fishing baits that are used to catch fish and they come in plenty of different sizes, shapes, and colors. But what works for one species of fish may not necessarily work for another, so you need different types of lures in your arsenal. Let’s take a look at a few of the most popular types of fishing lures out there that you need for your next trip!

Plugs

Plugs are fishing lures made of hard plastic and resemble the most common bait fish or other prey animals of your target fish species. They will usually include a thin piece of plastic on the front called the lip, and this makes the entire lure wobble and move while in the water. A plug can have many different actual designs that allow it to either float, dive, sink, or wobble through the water in order to attract fish.

Jigs

Jigs are very simple lures that will feature a weighted head on one side of it and a single hook on the other side. They will usually have a skirt made of plastic around the hook, and are effective for many different species of fish. Because they are weighted, jigs will sink very quickly and easily. This makes them a perfect choice for deep water or bottom fishing.

Spinnerbait

Spinnerbaits are unique lures that are designed to move through the water at higher speeds than other lures, and on a horizontal plane. They are available in a wide array of shapes,colors, and sizes depending on the target species and the water depth that you will be fishing.  Spinnerbaits will have a hook on one side, and a metal blade that spins (hence the name) on the other. The hook will usually have a skirt around it, and the spinning of the blade or blades will help to create vibrations in the water and attract attention.

Soft Plastics

Soft plastic lures are a staple among most fishermen, and are rubbery artificial baits that are made to resemble a wide variety of different creatures. You will find plastic baits in the shapes of things like worms, lizards, crawfish, frogs, and other animals that are preyed upon by fish. Soft plastics are favorite amongst bass anglers, but can be used to catch just about any species of predatory fish out there. Plastics can be all different colors and sizes to suit your needs, and can be rigged up with many different methods.

Blades and Vibes

Blades and vibes lures are very similar, but do have a few key differences. Both are designed to be used for sub-surface (often in deeper water) situations. Vibes can be constructed of different materials and generally feature a rubber skirt or other addition, while blades are usually metal or sometimes a hard plastic. Both, however, are very thin and function on the same basic principles. Using both blades and vibes is very popular because of just how easy they are to use, and how effective they are at catching fish!