Fishing lures are available in a near endless array of styles, colors, sizes, and types. The main purpose of any type of fishing lure is to attract fish, but the type of fishing lure a fisherman chooses might be based on previous experience, personal preference, or another’s suggestion. Each type of fishing lure performs differently underwater depending on its design.
Spinners, spoons, jigs, and soft plastic baits will all perform in a different way when reeled through the water. Experienced fisherman know how most types of fish will react to bait and can select an appropriate fishing lure for each situation. Most fishing lures are designed to closely resemble live bait in both appearance and movement when underwater. Though each fishing lure reacts differently, most mimic the swimming movements of a live critter when proper angling is applied.
Fishing lures are designed to work with the water, or in some cases against it. Novice fisherman might hold a fishing lure before tying it on and not quite see its performance potential. It isn’t until the fishing lure is underwater and moving with the line that it lives it up to its potential. Certain fishing lures displace water as they move, while others, especially those made of feathers or hair, move freely with the water.
Many fishing lures are made in bright, almost obnoxious colors, while others are muted and more natural. Again, making the right choice is largely based on the type of fish you are trying to catch and the fishing conditions. Spoons are often good choices for highly vegetated areas, while plastic jigs work well for crappie fishing. Some fishing lures are even designed to make noise to help the fish better locate the bait in murky waters.
Knowing which fishing lure to use in each situation takes practice and experience. A fishing lure simply thrown into the water and left to float near the bottom is not likely to attract a fish. Fish often strike at movement, and learning the correct rod and reel techniques for each type of lure takes practice and patience and sometimes luck. Talk with experienced fisherman that have fished the waters you are planning to try and use their experience to your benefit.