How and when to fish deep diving crankbaits is a topic that many anglers are curious about. In this article, we will discuss some foundational information on deep diving crankbaits, what they are designed to do, and how to fish them effectively. These baits are perfect for reaching fish that are in deeper water, particularly during the months when bass are more aggressive and located in deeper zones.
Fishing with deep diving crankbaits can be more challenging than using traditional crankbaits, but their effectiveness in catching big fish makes them a valuable tool in any angler’s tackle box. With the right technique, color selection, and equipment, you too can master the art of fishing with deep diving crankbaits and catch some trophy-sized fish.
Key Takeaways
- Deep diving crankbaits are most effective from June to October when fish are in deeper zones
- Utilizing a stop-and-go retrieve technique can trigger more bites from aggressive fish
- Optimal water clarity for deep diving crankbaits ranges from 2 to 5 feet.
Understanding Deep Diving Crankbaits
Deep diving crankbaits are specialized lures designed to target fish in deeper waters, typically within the 12 to 25-foot depth range. These lures are particularly useful when fish are deeper and more aggressive, often between June and October.
These crankbaits can be a bit more challenging to use due to their larger size and increased resistance from the water, caused by their larger lip. Despite these challenges, deep diving crankbaits are incredibly effective at catching big fish.
To increase your success with this lure, consider the following tips:
- Vary your retrieval speed: Fast, stop-and-go retrieves can generate reaction strikes from aggressive fish.
- Choose the right color for water clarity: Use Shad patterns in clear water, chartreuse or pearl-sided lures in moderately clear water, and avoid use in dirty water with less than 2 feet of visibility.
- Select appropriate line test: Opt for a 12 to 15-pound test fluorocarbon line to manage the lure’s resistance and avoid breakage.
- Use a long rod: A rod of at least 7 feet, with a medium or medium-stiff action, will allow for longer casts and better control of the lure.
When it comes to fishing locations, deep diving crankbaits excel around points, drop-offs, steep banks, and sometimes over deep grass beds. While this lure may not be an all-year-round option, it can be highly effective in catching some of the biggest fish during the peak period of mid-June to mid-July.
Ideal Conditions for Deep Diving Crankbaits
When fishing with deep diving crankbaits, it’s important to consider the right conditions to optimize your chances of catching big fish. Generally, deep diving crankbaits work best between June and October, when fish tend to be more aggressive and stay deeper in the water.
Selecting the right color for your crankbait based on water clarity and light conditions is crucial. In clear waters with over 3.5 feet of visibility, a shad pattern is an excellent choice. However, in off-colored water with 2-3 feet of visibility, opt for chartreuse or pearl-sided crankbaits. Keep in mind that dirty water with less than 2 feet of visibility is not ideal for deep diving crankbaits, as fish generally stay closer to the surface in such conditions.
The line test is another factor to consider, and using a 12 to 15-pound test fluorocarbon line is recommended due to the resistance given by the larger bait. A 7-foot rod with medium-stiff action is preferable as it enables longer casts and better control of the bait.
While fishing with deep diving crankbaits, focus on areas like points, drop-offs, steep banks, or grass beds if you’re fishing in the south. The structure of the lake and its specific features will influence your fishing success.
Using a stop-and-go retrieve technique with a fast pace can help generate reaction strikes from aggressive fish, increasing your chances of catching them. Remember, the goal is to keep the fish from having enough time to analyze the bait and force them to react quickly to its movement.
By following these tips and considering the ideal conditions for deep diving crankbaits, you can improve your fishing experience and increase your chances of catching bigger fish.
How to Fish With Deep Diving Crankbaits
Deep diving crankbaits are designed to reach depths in the range of 12 to 25 feet, which makes them perfect when fish are in their deeper state. These crankbaits work best between June and October, when fish are more aggressive and situated deeper. However, fishing with deep diving crankbaits can be a little more challenging due to their larger size and the resistance they generate while reeling them in.
To effectively fish with a deep diving crankbait, use a stop-and-go retrieve technique at a fairly fast pace. Reel it down to the bottom quickly and then stop it, starting up again in quick succession. This rapid-motion approach will trigger a reaction strike, making it more likely for an aggressive fish to bite.
Color selection plays an important role in fishing with deep diving crankbaits. Base your color selection on water clarity and sunlight conditions:
- For clear water (over 3.5 feet visibility), a shad pattern works well.
- For slightly off-colored water (2 – 3 feet visibility), opt for chartreuse or pearl-sided crankbaits.
Avoid using deep diving crankbaits in dirty water, as they don’t perform well in low visibility conditions. Ideally, use them in water with 2 to 5 feet of visibility.
Line test and equipment are also crucial factors. Since deep diving crankbaits create a lot of resistance, use 12 to 15 pound fluorocarbon line. A 15-pound line is preferable as it allows the bait to reach greater depths while still being strong enough to prevent breakage. Utilize a long rod, at least 7 feet, with medium to medium-stiff action, which better enables you to control the bait and make longer casts.
Lastly, consider where to fish. Fish points, drop-offs, steep banks, and grass beds (if fishing down south) are ideal spots to use deep diving crankbaits. These lures are not suited for year-round use, but work exceptionally well during mid-June to mid-July, when they can catch some of the biggest fish in the lake.
Color Selection for Deep Diving Crankbaits
When using deep diving crankbaits, it’s essential to consider the color selection to ensure successful fishing. The water clarity and sunlight conditions play a vital role in determining the right choices for your crankbaits.
In clear waters with over three and a half feet of visibility, Shad patterns work effectively. On the other hand, when you’re dealing with off-colored water with two to three feet of visibility, go for options with chartreuse or pearl sides. However, deep diving crankbaits are not the best choice for dirty water with less than two feet of visibility.
Generally, deep diving crankbaits excel in lakes with water visibility ranging from two to five feet. Selecting the right line test also matters – consider using 12 to 15-pound test fluorocarbon line. A 15-pound test line is particularly helpful, as it is thick enough to prevent breakage yet allows the bait to dive deeply.
Furthermore, use at least a seven-foot rod with a medium to medium-stiff action for longer casts and better bait control. Experiment with fishing points, drop-offs, and steep banks to maximize your success using deep diving crankbaits.
Remember, the effectiveness of deep diving crankbaits usually peaks around mid-June to mid-July. During this time, you have a better chance of catching the biggest fish in the lake. With the right color selection and technique, your deep diving crankbait fishing can become a fruitful experience. Happy fishing!
Line Test and Rod Preferences
When it comes to deep diving crankbaits, there are some preferences to consider for line test and rod choice. Deep diving crankbaits work best when used with 12 to 15-pound test fluorocarbon line. The line helps ensure the bait runs at a proper depth, while still being strong enough to prevent break-offs. A 15-pound test line is a good choice, as it still allows the bait to sink deep and reduces the chances of breaking off.
For the rod, it’s best to use a lengthy one – at least 7 feet long, with a medium to medium-stiff action. The longer rod assists in making longer casts and helps control the bait more effectively.
When it comes to fishing deep diving crankbaits, there are a few key factors to keep in mind. The speed of your retrieve plays a significant role in enticing fish to bite. Using a stop-and-go retrieve, where you reel fast, then stop and restart, can trigger reaction strikes from fish.
Color selection of the crankbait also matters, and your choice should depend on water clarity and light conditions. In clear water with over 3.5 feet visibility, opt for a Shad pattern. However, if visibility is around 2-3 feet, chartreuse or pearl-sided colors work better. Be mindful that deep diving crankbaits aren’t as effective in dirty water.
Ideal fishing locations for deep diving crankbaits include points, drop-offs, steep banks, or even over deep grass beds in certain conditions. The type of structure you’re fishing will influence where you cast your bait.
Remember, deep diving crankbaits are situational lures and might not be used all year round. However, they can be very effective at certain times, especially for catching big fish. Mid-June to mid-July is an excellent period to make the most of this bait.
Situational Use of Deep Diving Crankbaits
When targeting fish that are deeper during specific times of the year, deep diving crankbaits are ideal. Generally, these lures are most effective between June and October when the fish are aggressive and dwell at greater depths of around 12 to 25 feet.
To fish with a deep diving crankbait, consider using a stop-and-go retrieve method. Reel the bait quickly to the bottom, then pause and repeat the process. This provokes reaction strikes from aggressive fish and increases the chance of success.
Selecting the right color for your crankbait is vital, and it mainly depends on water clarity and light intensity. For clear water of more than three and a half feet visibility, a Shad pattern should work well. Meanwhile, in slightly off-colored water with visibility of about two to three feet, chartreuse or pearl sides are more favorable. However, when visibility is below two feet, deep diving crankbaits may not be as effective.
Using the appropriate line test is crucial when fishing with deep diving crankbaits. Since the lures are larger and present higher resistance, opt for 12 to 15-pound test fluorocarbon lines. Moreover, a longer rod of at least seven feet with medium stiffness is recommended to accommodate longer casts and better control.
Ideal spots to fish with deep diving crankbaits include points, drop-offs, and steep banks. In southern regions, you can also fish the lures above deep grass beds. The location and structure of the body of water, however, will ultimately dictate the most effective spots to deploy these crankbaits.
Where to Fish Deep Diving Crankbaits
Deep diving crankbaits are designed to run in deep water, usually in the 12 to 25 foot depth range. These lures are great for catching big fish when they’re deep, such as walleye and bass. The ideal time to use deep diving crankbaits is between June and October, when fish tend to be more aggressive and found at deeper depths.
To achieve the most success with deep diving crankbaits, consider the following tips:
- Retrieve Technique: Use a fast stop-and-go retrieve. Reel the lure quickly to the bottom, stop, and then start reeling again. This technique generates reaction strikes, which are more likely to occur with a large bait like a deep diving crankbait.
- Color Selection: Choose the color of the bait based on the water clarity and sunlight conditions. In clear water with over 3.5 feet of visibility, a shad-pattern bait works well. For slightly off-colored water with 2-3 feet visibility, go for chartreuse or pearl-sided baits. However, avoid using deep diving crankbaits in dirty water with less than 2 feet visibility.
- Line Test: Use at least a 12 to 15-pound test fluorocarbon line, as heavier lines will reduce the lure’s diving depth. Usually, using a 15-pound test line is ideal, as it still allows the bait to run deep while providing enough strength to avoid breakages.
- Rod Selection: Use a long, medium-stiff action rod, at least 7 feet in length. A longer rod helps with longer casts and better control over the bait.
When picking out locations to fish deep diving crankbaits, focus on the structure of the body of water:
- Points: Can be productive areas for deep diving crankbaits.
- Drop-offs: These are prime spots for fishing with deep diving crankbaits.
- Steep Banks: Another great area to target using these lures.
- Grass Beds: If you are fishing in southern regions, you can fish deep diving crankbaits over the top of deep grass beds.
Remember, using deep diving crankbaits can be situational, and they’re not always the best choice year-round. However, during the right periods and conditions, they can be extremely effective for catching some of the biggest fish in the lake.
Wrapping Up on Deep Diving Crankbaits
In the world of fishing, deep diving crankbaits are essential when targeting fish at greater depths. Typically sinking to a range of 12 to 25 feet, these crankbaits work effectively from June to October when fish are more aggressive and situated in deeper waters.
Despite being more challenging to handle due to tension from the large lip, deep diving crankbaits are highly effective, especially for attracting bigger fish. To entice these fish, consider varying your retrieval speed with a fast stop-and-go technique, which can trigger reaction strikes as fish don’t get the chance to examine the bait closely.
When selecting colors, let water clarity and light conditions guide your choice. For clearer waters with over 3.5 feet of visibility, shad patterns are suitable, while chartreuse or pearl-sided options work better in water with 2 to 3 feet visibility. However, avoid using deep diving crankbaits in murky water with less than two feet visibility.
Line test and rod choice matter too. Opt for 12 to 15-pound test fluorocarbon line for better control and reduced breakage. A long rod, at least 7 feet, with medium to medium-stiff action is recommended for longer casting capabilities.
Popular locations for deep diving crankbait fishing include points, drop-offs, and steep banks. In some southern regions, you may even target grass beds if they’re deep enough.
Remember, deep diving crankbaits are situational and most effective during specific months. Experiment with them, particularly from mid-June to mid-July, to reap their benefits in catching bigger fish in deeper waters. Happy fishing!
FAQ
1. What are deep diving crankbaits?
Deep diving crankbaits are designed to reach greater depths in the water column. They have longer bills or lips that help them dive deep when retrieved.
2. When should I use deep diving crankbaits?
Deep diving crankbaits are most effective when fishing in deep water, typically over 15 feet deep. They are beneficial during the warmer months when bass are often found in deeper reservoirs or off-shore structures.
3. How do I select the correct deep-diving crankbait?
When choosing a deep diving crankbait, consider the maximum depth it can reach, the running depth specified by the manufacturer, and the type of forage in the water. Factors like water clarity, retrieve speed, and weeds or structure should also be considered.
4. What fishing gear is recommended for deep diving crankbaits?
For deep diving crankbaits, it is recommended to use a medium to medium-heavy action rod and a reel with a gear ratio between 5:1 and 7:1. Pair the setup with a strong monofilament or fluorocarbon line in the range of 12-20 pounds test. This combination provides the necessary power to handle big bass and enables you to fish the crankbait effectively at greater depths.
5. How should I fish deep-diving crankbaits?
When fishing deep-diving crankbaits, make long casts to allow the lure to reach its maximum depth. Retrieve the crankbait at a medium speed, maintaining contact with the bottom or structure. The wobbling action of the crankbait imitates a struggling baitfish, attracting bass and triggering strikes.
6. Can deep diving crankbaits be used in shallow water?
While deep diving crankbaits are primarily designed for fishing in deep water, they can also be effective in shallower water, especially if a submerged structure or weeds are present. Experiment with different retrieve speeds to adjust the running depth and trigger strikes from bass in shallower areas.
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