James RickardUsing lipless crankbaits
September 21st 2007 00:13
If there’s one thing I like, it’s a sport like fishing that doesn’t require a lot of work. It’s even better when you get a lure that doesn’t require a much work. A lipless crankbait fills that bill quite nicely! Lipless crankbaits are slender, minnow shaped lures from a variety of manufacturers that have internal rattles and a wiggling motion upon retrieve that drive fish absolutely insane! They are great for covering large areas and the aforementioned action induces fish to bite even if they are in a negative mood. If you want to graduate from plain worms or minnows, a lipless crankbait is a great place to start! Available in a variety of sizes, these lures are great for bass, walleye, and similar aggressive species. You’ll notice that a lipless crank is unlike most other lures in that the line is tied onto the top of the lure, making it run with its “head” down, hopefully, imitating a feeding baitfish.
You can use a lipless crank in stained or clear water. A rule of thumb says to use a fast retrieve if the water is clear and slow down in dingy water or under low light conditions. Sometimes the best retrieve is to cast the lure, wait for the water to settle a bit, then lift the rod to pull in the lure. Finally, take up the slack as you lower your rod and keep repeating this all the way back to shore or your boat. However, if there is heavy fishing pressure, save this retrieve for later and burn it back in.
Someone out there is thinking, “Didn’t he just say this a few weeks ago?” Sort of. There are crankbaits and lipless crankbaits. Upon inspection, you’ll notice that a lipless crank does not have a diving bill like so many other lures. The wobble or shimmy with lipless crankbaits is produced by water pressure hitting against a flat forehead. To maximize this action, always remember to tie on directly to the lure rather than using snap swivels.
As it happens with most lures, the best time to use a lipless crankbait is the early spring/late winter spawn when fish are actively feeding and willing to bite almost anything! After that would be right now moving into the fall. As long as the water temperature is above 50 degrees you’ll be okay.
As for color, I’d recommend a couple for day—chartreuse and maybe something matching the local forage, and a darker color for night. Something like a black/blue or a deep purple would be in order.
Versatility is one thing that makes lipless crankbaits so popular. You can even use them with a Carolina rig. But—experimentation is the key. As you grow through experimenting with different techniques and retrieves, you may find that it’s almost as rewarding a making a catch!
Until next time--watch yourself and watch your line!
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