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Crankbaits

Hard-bodied lures with a lip (bill) that causes them to dive and wobble when retrieved, imitating baitfish or crawfish. Categorized by running depth: shallow (0-5 ft), medium (5-10 ft), and deep (10-20+ ft). Lipless crankbaits lack a bill and produce a tight vibration.

Techniques

  • Steady retrieve
  • Crank and pause
  • Deflection fishing
  • Yo-yoing lipless cranks
  • Slow-rolling
  • Trolling

Target species

  • Largemouth Bass
  • Smallmouth Bass
  • Walleye
  • Pike
  • Musky
  • Striped Bass

Best conditions

Shallow cranks in spring/fall around cover. Deep cranks in summer over offshore structure. Lipless cranks over submerged grass in early spring. Most effective in stained to moderately clear water.

Skill level

Beginner to Intermediate

38 crankbaits