The Best Way to Use a Crank Bait

Crank baits are fishing lures made of hard plastic or wood and that imitate live fish or minnows. Fishermen use them to target and catch a wide variety of fish species, from crappies and sunfish to bass and walleyes. Available in a variety of lengths and weights, crank baits dive toward the bottom when reeled or trolled. The depth individual baits dive depends on the length and width of their bill. Some baits dive just below the surface, while others are designed to hit the bottom in 20 feet of water or more. The best way to use a crank bait is to ensure it stays in contact with the bottom.

Things You'll Need

  • Baitcast rod and reel
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Instructions

    • 1

      Select a baitcasting reel with a low gear ratio; 5.1 to 1 or 4.1 to 1 is best.

    • 2

      Pair the rod with a medium-action fishing rod at least 6 1/2 feet in length.

    • 3

      Spool the fishing reel with 8- or 10-pound test monofilament fishing line.

    • 4

      Tie a Palomar knot through the eye of the bait to attach it to the fishing line. Choose a crank bait that dives just deeper than the depth of water in which you are fishing.

    • 5

      Cast the crank bait out from a boat, dock or shoreline.

    • 6

      Turn the handle of the reel clockwise to retrieve the bait. Retrieve it quickly until it hits the bottom. Then allow the lure to float upward for a count of one or two before reeling again. Allow the lure to float upward again the next time it hits the bottom.