Fishing tackle boxes are designed along technical lines more now than in years past, and a lot of consumers think that the days of old-fashioned and clunky, rectangular shaped boxes are somewhat passe, though there are still traditional boxes that can accommodate almost any kind of gear that anglers or outdoor enthusiasts would be interested in using for not only fishing but for other activities.

In searching for a fishing tackle box, dedicated fishermen and others in need of a tackle box designed to hold items other than fishing tackle want to know what will accommodate their needs and what will be the most usable, accessible and at right price point for their budget. In order to do that, a little research and time invested in searching for the right tackle box will help accomplish that task.

In considering what a fishermen should look for in a tackle box, some of the tackle boxes reviewed here give fishing enthusiasts an idea of the features to investigate in the latest tackle boxes available. A buyer’s guide to fishing tackle boxes should include specifics concerning brands, prices, warranties, sizes, weight, portability, accessibility, water-resistance, storage capability, durability, stability and any type of included accessory packages that go with the box or bag. The following tackle boxes and soft sided tackle bags are some of the better and more popular ones that are currently available in the marketplace.

Our Top Rated Fishing Tackle Boxes

As far as the better brands available in fishing tackle boxes, Plano (Plano Molding), Spiderwire, Ready 2 Fish, Berkley, Flambeau, and South Bend provide top-of-the line tackle boxes and softer alternatives. They come in different sizes and weights and are categorized by their tray capacities and ability to hold a variety of items from lures, spinners, hooks, artificial bait, corks, bobbers, poppers, ranks, fishing line, eyelets, reels, fisherman gloves; to snacks, sunglasses, sunscreen, first-aid items and fishing tools such as pliers, flashlights and hook removers.

1. Plano 1364-4 By Rack System 3650 Size Tackle Box

Plano (Plano Molding) is well known for its fishing tackle systems and tackle boxes, but their technological reach with plastic molding goes beyond fishing and hunting. Their medical, storage, stowaway organizers and other products are among the best in the world. The Plano 1364 Tackle Box is a durable, high capacity storage unit that ensure simple access to fishing gear. It contains 4-2-3650 utility boxes that provide more than sufficient storage space for fishing needs. The box has a Duraview front cover (able to view and sturdy) that has room underneath the lid for even more storage. It also contains interchangeable utility boxes that can be utilized with other 360 Plano products. The box measures 13.375 X 10 X 14 inches and weighs 5.7 pounds, and it is backed by Plano’s limited lifetime warranty. Plano event opts for personalization of items.

2. Spiderwire Wolf Tackle Bag (Black)

This best selling Spiderwire Wolf tackle box/bag comes in a bag shape for with a sturdy carrying strap for ease of carrying and portability. It is made of 1480 denier poly material and is waterproof and skid resistant. The all-weather molded (bottom) bag holds four (4) large(included) tackle boxes along with two (2) removable fishing line dispensers as well as dual plier holders. It has mesh pocket interiors that help to keep accessories dry and easy to locate. This black bag measures 16.3 X 11.2 X 8.8 inches and weighs 6 pounds.

3. Ready 2 Fish Tackle Box

This two-size tackle box (manufactured by Plano) is set up for one or two tray storage. The one tray holds 62 pieces of assorted tackle and the second tray holds 132 pieces of assorted gears. It comes with jigs, hooks and sinkers. The box has a traditional look and shape and includes a fishing guide for beginners and novices and provides handy tips for anyone interested and ready to learn the sport. This box is designed and meant for more occasional anglers, and its contents are rudimentary. The box measures 14 X 7.5 X 8 inches and weighs 7.4 ounces and comes in green.

4. Plano (Plano Molding) Angled Tackle System

Plano outdoes itself again with this angled tackle box. The angled stow away system keeps its two (2) 3600 size utility boxes secure through its platform. This compact system of tackle storage makes organizing any kind of fishing gear easy while gaining access to it presents a smooth and painless process. Its storage top dimensions are 2-1/2 inches and it slopes to 1-1/2 inches to the front. Though not waterproof, it holds allows for storage and fit of virtually anything for everyday fishing needs, which includes space for sunglasses, tools and other items. The box measures 18 X 9 X 10 inches and weighs 5.7 pounds.

5. Berkley Small Berkley Tackle Bag

This small tackle bag from Berkley is easy to organize with lures, bait and other fishing accessories. It features two trays that fit inside its padded interior, and it has a zippered front and side pockets. The front pouch as a hook and loop type closure for quick and easy access and opening. Side mesh compartments provide extra storage options as well. A padded carrying strap makes for even more portability and light weight carrying capability. The red and black bag measures 11 X 6 X 4.5 inches and weighs 1.1 pounds. The to (2) tackle trays measure 9 X 4.75 X 1.25.

6. Flambeau Tackle 2 Tray Tackle Box

The highly rated Flambeau Tackle 2 Tray Tackle box has a number of very supportive features that make this box a fisherman-friendly, all weather, water resistant device, which makes it an angler’s best friend at the old fishing hole-whether a pond, stream, lake, river or ocean. It is made of worm-proof materials and has two (2) trays that include dividers (that are removable) for more detailed storage capabilities. The trays have varied depths that accommodate almost any fishing gear situation. Though there is a latch and extremely durable construction, the box does not lock, but the tongue and groove construction makes for a precise fit. The black tackle box measures 13.5 X 8.5 X 7.5 inches and weighs 2.4 pounds.

7. South Bend Worm Gear Tackle Box

If the occasional fisherman or angler on a budget is looking for a functional tackle box with minimal gear on the cheap, than the South Bend Worm Gear Tackle Box should be one of their considerations. This bright orange tackle box is perfect for a starter kit, plus it is small enough for anyone to use and carry. It is a one tray tackle box that comes with assorted accessories such as a hook disgorger, split-shots (non-lead), multiple color floats, assorted hooks, stringer, and brass swivels. It is easy to organize this tackle box for a one-day outing without the hassle of bringing along extra accessories. This smaller box measures 8.9 X .1 X 7.3 inches and weighs 12.8 ounces.

With more and more people getting into hobbies and past times like fishing, they are going to clamor for the right kind of equipment to maintain and support their interests. Even those who rely on catching fish as a food source, or fish for a living on a small scale, they, too, require tackle that will keep them in business. Fishing is relaxing, entertaining, recreational and even profitable for an amateur or a professional, and the right tackle can make all the difference in their work output and income.

Newer and updated tackle boxes come in all shapes and sizes and can accommodate seasoned anglers, occasional fisherman and beginners. There are benefits from the choices presented here that provide information for all lovers of the sport. Fishermen on any level can enjoy fishing with any of these tackle boxes and soft-sided bags in the selections reviewed here.

Once upon a time, getting one’s hands on a pair of fishing waders required next to no planning, but these days, fishermen have choices. Perhaps too many of them! Today’s wader market is as crowded as a newly-stocked lake and manufacturers keep piling on improvements, new styles and features to attract new customers and satisfy brand-loyal fishermen.

As competition heats up, comparison shopping can take longer if you like to be thorough or you’re looking for the best mix of features for the least amount of money. Of course, you just want to go fishing–you don’t want to become a quasi-expert on what to wear when you do what you love–which is why this guide can help you cut through some clutter so the fish don’t have to wait for you any longer than necessary!

Wader history

Despite a perfectly respectable manufacturing history, people who don’t fish still confuse the definition of fishing waders. There are three of styles that fall into the category of waders. They range from a thigh-high waterproof boot made of vulcanized rubber, neoprene, PVC or proprietary Gore-Tex materials to the full-body suit that comes with or without attached stocking-foot boots.

Hodgman was the first company to manufacture waders of traditional industrial fabrics in the 1850s. They’re still in business and their waders are included in this review. When rubber became available in 1912, it became the preferred fabrication material. In order to meet the demands of amphibian combat troops waging war in Europe and Japan in 1942, Hodgman and other sporting goods manufacturers began experimenting with new and improved designs and fabrication methods to make these essentials more durable and waterproof.

The wader has recently evolved into a more versatile product: today’s shopper buys them for angling, waterfowl hunting, model boating, pond cleaning/servicing and they are essential for industries requiring employees to work in environments in which chemicals are used in addition to plumbing and sewer jobs, flood and crime scene clean-up. Surprisingly, they’re also bought by all-terrain vehicle off-roaders and pastors who conduct full-immersion baptisms!

Why waders?

Before sports fisherman relied upon waders to keep them dry and healthy, anyone spending too much time in water casting for fish could find themselves vulnerable to disease and infection. Diagnoses of trench foot were common “back in the day,” so hygiene and disease protection were both reasons the wader became so popular. They still offer a much-needed barrier between wearers and a variety of illnesses that can be acquired from long-term exposure to water, wind and snow–particularly hypothermia.

Given new styles and materials employed in the manufacture of waders, this industry is primed for the next iteration of products; waders that respect the environment and thwart invasive organisms and plants from being carried into water on waders, thereby threatening fish stocks and habitats. It’s easy to see why this niche has grown from simple idea into best-selling product lines sold by myriad sporting goods manufacturers.

What makes a great wader?

1. Breathability. For some anglers, it’s all about breathability and who wants to wade through manufacturer claims to figure out which brands delivers? If you’re an inquisitive soul, you can muddle through ASTM test results or global SATRA assessments or do what one creative angler suggested: drop a small hygrometer inside the waders, buckle the belt, wait a few minutes and see how much humidity you’ve managed to generate. Get a cheap Acu-rite indoor humidity monitor (if you don’t already own one) on Amazon.com for about 10 bucks. You’re looking for low readings, by the way—in the neighborhood of 32-to-40 percent.
2. Fit, feel and function. According to another fishing fan, it takes about two weeks of wearing new waders every day to break in a pair once you’ve gotten your hands on them. Of course, the folks at your favorite retail shop or website resource don’t loan them out, but if you’re up for testing the three Fs, patronize a resource with a 30-day return policy and then wear them for a short while every day within that period to see how they perform. If you can audition those waders while standing in a stream, good for you. Otherwise, warn your family that you’ll be parading around in them at home for a couple of hours every day.
3. Movement. Casting, heading down or upstream and trudging to and from parking lots and other points are part of the fishing experience. Testing for movement is important so you get a feel for how your waders perform on the go; whether the suspenders feel uncomfortable; if pockets are hard to reach. Movement tests make sure you can wear your waders for hours at a time, and don’t dismiss wader lengths. If the pair you pick are too long, you could trip and fall; if they’re too short and there are no guards, you risk ankle abrasions, refuse infiltration and enough discomfort to ruin your day.
4. Design and fabrication. No, you’re not out to make a fashion statement or walk an aquatic runway, but manufacturers are spending a lot of time and money on style, so the waders you put on don’t make you look like you’re a walking neoprene bag with suspenders. There’s nothing wrong with looking good. Let’s face it, if you have the choice of looking like the Michelin Tire man or cool, which do you prefer? More important than look is seam engineering. This is your stitched-versus-welded debate, and seasoned fisherman who have worn more than their share of waders agree that both work, so it comes down to personal preference; another reason to try out both before you buy.

Additional points to consider

1. Size matters. Experienced wader buyers like to offer this age advice: If you’re trying to decide between two likely contenders for your affection and dollars, don’t dismiss the subject of available sizing. If everything you put on your body is easy to slot into the general M, L, XL or XXL range, size may not be a deal breaker, but if you’re hard to fit, a wider selection of sizes is preferable. You may also want to consider custom-made waders offering mix and match booty sizes, better suspenders or a horizontal aqua seal zipper to get you in and out of your waders fast.
2. Pockets! It’s the 21st Century. Your lures may be exactly the same as those used by your grandfather, but your fishing gear and other “essentials” require pockets in this day and age. Lots of them. You need places to stow your cell phone, camera, keys, flies and wallet and variety is indeed the spice of life whether you’re in a boat or standing in a stream. Go for the mother lode: hand-warmer pockets, flip-outs and the deep and wide envelopes that give you storage for anything under the sun—all waterproof of course.
3. Nature calls. Literally. And you want to be able to answer without having to strip naked, even if there are only fish around to witness your striptease. Some brands have responded to the plaintive call of the fisherman by adding longer zippers or more versatile suspenders. When you audition waders on spec before you buy (in the privacy of a dressing room, of course), imagine yourself in dire need of relief and practice seeing how fast you can get in and out of your waders before you make a buying decision.
4. Trip insurance. Your fishing schedule will determine how long your waders hold up, thus having a warranty may be important to you. One veteran fisherman confided that his rule of thumb is that waders won’t last longer than five years on anglers who wear them 25 days or more during the year. If that describes you, it may not be worth your while to factor this in when you make your purchase because you feel that replacing them in five years isn’t a problem. Of course, most manufacturer’s labels state that there’s a warranty for “the life of the product,” so you’re on good legal ground if something goes wrong not long after you purchase your waders.

Reviews of 6 Great Waders on Today’s Market

Hodgman McKenzie Cleated Nylon/PVC Boot-foot Chest

Price range: $50 to $80

Details: This affordable wader is 35-percent lighter than rubber waders, the PVC boot is more durable than rubber and the nylon shell fabric stands up to all sorts of aquatic challenges. Claim to fame? Wearers find these more flexible than rubber waders and they experienced less chafing, too. This best-seller is a perfect investment for those who haven’t as much time to fish as they wish and for beginners who don’t want to spend a lot of money on the hobby to which they’ve just been introduced.

Satisfied wearers: Almost 70-percent of buyers give this wader 5 stars and are particularly complimentary about ease of fit, quality construction and affordability.

Redington Crosswater Wader

Price range: $85 to $110

Details: Many outdoor gear retailers sell this wader for $200, but if you shop sites like Amazon, you can save a bundle. This 100-percent polyester garment features three layers of DWR coated fabric, so if anything seeps in, it’s only because your hook made a hole in this breathable wader. Buckles allow for fast waist-high conversion, and you can stuff everything in your possession into the roomy pocket protected by a YKK zipper. A wading belt is included and there are gravel guards built into the hems.

Satisfied wearers: With a respectable customer rating of 5 stars given by 72-percent of purchasers, this wader has its very own fan club.

Frogg Toggs Amphib 3.5mm Neoprene Boot Foot Wader

Price range: $95 to $120

Details: You’re going to look like a Navy Seal when you don this dark green neoprene jumper. Sure, it’s got the standard bib-suspenders offering hook and loop adjustment, but those suspenders are wider than most and the knee pads are reinforced neoprene for those who intend, for whatever reason, to spend time on their knees. The chest pocket’s interior shows that little things mean a lot: it’s lined with comfy fleece. One happy buyer claims these waders “go where boats can’t” and tall fisherman rave about sizing.

Satisfied wearers: Five-star ratings were awarded by 70-percent of buyers.

Caddis 2-Tone Deluxe Stocking Foot Wader

Price Range: $96 to $185

Details: This product doesn’t include boots but you may not care because this wader has features you might not find elsewhere. If you’re the hard-to-fit fisherman we described earlier, you’ll be impressed by the sizing chart that offers 12 choices within regular, tall and short ranges. Breathable and comfortable, CaddisDry helps disburse sweat and gravel guards are attached. Fabricated of polyester, wearers found these warm, dry and comfy, even in freezing waters.

Satisfied wearers: 64-percent of purchasers awarded 5 stars to this size-friendly wader.

Aquaz Rogue Chest Wader

Price Range: $136 to $140

Details: If you are ready to upgrade from your first chest wader, the Aquaz Rogue may appeal to you because it’s manufactured to exacting specifications, it’s very lightweight (if you fish in hot weather, add a few points) and it’s made of Aqualex Pro Fabric, a proprietary material that’s exclusive to this brand. The handy chest pocket, adjustable shoulder straps and waist belt are popular with buyers of this brand. Not every wader has its own YouTube video, but a fan has made this one as his tribute: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uWs3gh10qQk!

Satisfied wearers: Just 25-percent of shoppers gave this wader 5 stars, but another 50-percent awarded 4 stars!

Orvis Silver Sonic Guide Wader

Price Range: $270 to $395

Details: Don’t let the price scare you; one fan calls this the toughest, best fly-fishing wader on the planet and he claims the Sonic is designed to hold up longer than three brands he bought in the past combined! The Sonic Guide wader promises 300-percent more abrasion resistance than competitors and it’s nearly impossible to puncture the four layers of high-density, breathable nylon. Avid fisherman say they’re happy to spend more for the padded yoke suspenders, plethora of pockets and gravel guards designed with quick-drain panels. Further, these waders tackle odor, mildew and bacteria more efficiently because the fabric repels all three.

Satisfied wearers: 5 star ratings came from 73-percent of buyers, so while the price tag may be jarring, you get more bang for your buck with these waders.

As fun as bass fishing may be, it can be overwhelming to see so many bait options and not know which one to choose. While the general goal of lures remains the same regardless of what you’re trying to bait, there are still specific situations where some lures will perform more effectively than others. There are many different methods for determining the best bait for a given situation, but this guide has broken down the various factors into three main categories: temperature, season, and water quality.

In order to help select the best lure for a given situation, this guide has been designed to tackle each of the main areas where lures have differing effectiveness on bass.

Temperature

In colder temperatures, especially during the winter, bass are much more sluggish and lethargic. As a result, they’re less likely to expend much energy in chasing down bait and will only really react to bass that are directly in their face. In these situations, it’s best to use a slow moving bait type that gives the appearance of an easy meal to the bass. Typically, this includes hair jigs, jigging spoons, and grub. It’s worth mentioning that this can also depend on how clear the water is, but that will be discussed later. As the temperature gets warmer, crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and buzzbaits are typically the most effective.

Season

While winter simply applies the advice for colder temperatures across the entire season, spring can actually be divided into several categories that are incredibly useful to bass fishing: pre-spawn, spawn, post-spawn, and late spring. During the various spawning segments, bass will cycle between swimming down to a depth of roughly ten feet and swimming back to the area around the shore. Of course, it should be mentioned that the post-spawn segment of spring doesn’t occur to entire areas at once. Instead, each of these different spawn segments is entirely dependent on the temperature of the water. As the temperature transitions from 55 to 65 degrees (the spawning segment) to roughly 85 degrees (the late spring segment), the temperature between these extremes can best be described as the post-spawn segment.

During the summer, bass will typically school together and appear closer to the top of the water. As a result, jigs, crankbaits, and topwaters are recommended.

Interestingly, fall is a great season for bass fishing because of the transition from warm to colder temperatures. The bass react by increasing their food intake and are much more likely to chase after bait than would otherwise occur.

Water Quality

As important as the temperature and season are, it’s also important to take into account the visual quality of the water. In muddy water with a lot of vegetation, it’s typically best to use spinnerbait or jigs because they both excel at maneuvering through cover. Once the water gets warmer, typically during the summer and early fall, shallow crankbaits can also be used in muddy water to attract bass.

Best Overall Bass Lures

Due to the fact that bass fishing is about selecting the best lure to address multiple factors, it can be difficult to pinpoint a single lure that is the overall best for any given situation. As problematic as that may be though, there are several lures that can be applied to many different situations, making them much more useful for a starting fisherman’s lure kit. With that in mind, here are a few of the best lures for the most common bass lure types: crankbaits, topwaters, and jigs.

1. Strike King Square Bill Crankbait: In addition to coming in multiple sizes and having a variety of colors, the Strike King Square Bill Crankbait sets the standard for crankbaits with its solid design and reliable craftsmanship. Specific to crankbaits, the Strike King Square Bill Crankbait is a medium depth crankbait that is effective in most water types. Its perhaps at its best in the three to six foot water depths, but it can be effective elsewhere as well. If you’re interested in a crankbait that can be applied to multiple situations, the Strike King Square Bill Crankbait is a great starter product.

2. Rebel Pop R Triple Threat: The Rebel Pop R Triple Threat is a topwater lure that holds the distinction of being one of the longest running poppers currently on the market. The Rebel Pop R Triple Threat package has been specifically designed to include three of its most effective bass catching color patterns, making this a much better deal than most other topwater lures available. Aside from its color versatility, these topwater lures are also very accessible, making them great for new fishermen that aren’t very experienced with bass lures.

3. Booyah Boo Jig: The Booyah Bait Company is known for making high quality products, and that high standard for quality applies just as much to its jigs as anywhere else. The Boo Jig, in particular, is an example of their excellent craftsmanship. While jigs are especially effective in areas with dense vegetation, this jig is as effective there as it is anywhere else. Of course, it’s important when buying a jig to ensure its dense enough to push through most vegetation, but that’s not an issue with the Booyah Boo Jig. Perhaps best of all, the Booyah Boo Jig has over 16 different colors to choose from as well, ensuring that there’s a perfect jig for any situation.

Best Smallmouth Bass Lures

The best smallmouth bass lures typically come in two flavors: topwaters for clear water and buzzbaits for choppy water where fish can’t see bait as easily as they might otherwise. For novice fishermen, smaller buzzbaits can be trickier to use properly, but the potential rewards can make the attempt worthwhile.

1. Heddon Tiny Torpedo Lure: The Heddon Tiny Torpedo Lure is unlike many of the other entries in this guide because, as effective as it is with smallmouth bass, it’s also effective with most other freshwater fish. It’s likely for this reason that the Heddon Torpedo is the world’s most popular topwater lure. To take the most advantage of a topwater lure such as this, make sure to use repeated twitches of the lure in order to entice the fish to pounce.

2. Rapala Original Floater 05 Fishing Lures: Rapala’s high quality lures have been around for many years, and they still remain one of the most effective options for smallmouth bass fishing to this day. As with the Heddon Torpedo, the Rapala Original Floater excels when the fisherman utilizes quick, twitchy movements of the lure. In terms of specific terrain, the Rapala also comes highly recommended for river trips or lakes when fish are schooling.

3. Booyah Double Willow Counter Strike Spinnerbait: As great as topwater and buzzbait lures are for smallmouth bass fishing, the Booyah Double Will Counter Strike Spinnerbait sets itself apart from most other spinnerbaits by having many of the same characteristics that make buzzbait lures so effective. In particular, this spinnerbait’s lights attract smallmouth bass for the same reason buzzbaits do. It should also be noted that, unlike many other spinnerbaits and buzzbaits, the Booyah Double Willow Counter Strike Spinnerbait’s blades are incredibly resistant to jamming and can withstand multiple excursions without needing constant maintenance.

4. Booyah Pond Magic Buzz: Another product from Booyah, the Booyah Pond Magic Buzz is a great lure for those that routinely deal with finicky smallmouth bass. The Booyah Pond Magic Buzz has been designed to incorporate the look of the most common bass prey, making its silicone skirt and blades an enticing lure for smallmouth bass that are otherwise uninterested in what a fisherman has to offer.

Best Largemouth Bass Lures

While many fisherman have specific lures they swear by to catch largemouth bass, the truth is that there are essentially four different types that are fairly reliable: spinnerbait, crankbait, jigs, and plastic worms. Unlike smallmouth bass, largemouth bass tend to be attracted towards quieter bait, and these four types of lures excel in that area.

1. Booyah Super Shad: As a spinnerbait, the Booyah Super Shad is great for mimicking a school of fleeing prey. Perhaps best of all, the Booyah Super Shad is incredibly resistant, making it a great option to cast out when you’re searching for activity in a low visibility area. Typically, in the warmer months a spinnerbait should be no bigger than 3/8 ounce for largemouth bass, and no smaller than 3/8 ounce in colder months. The Booyah Super Shad happens to be exactly 3/8 ounce, making it a great fit for any largemouth bass fishing trip at any temperature.

2. Yamamoto Senko Bait: Typically, plastic worms are the most effective choice for largemouth bass fishing. The only time this isn’t the case is when largemouth bass are unusually active. In these scenarios, something more like the Booyah Super Shad is recommended. Still, the Yamamoto Senko Bait is effective in almost any other situation involving largemouth bass. When shopping for other plastic worm brands for largemouth bass fishing, make sure the worms are colored black, blue, or purple, as they are with the Yamamoto Senko Bait. Other colors can be effective in certain situations, but none of them have as strong of a track record with largemouth bass fishing as the black, blue, and purple ones do.

3. Strike King Red Eye Shad Bait: While crankbaits are great for most largemouth bass fishing situations, it’s the lipless crankbaits that are truly the best option. With that in mind, the Strike King Red Eye Shad Bait is an efficient and affordable model. Just remember, when shopping for other crankbait models, that largemouth bass are typically attracted to crankbaits that are between three and five inches in length. Luckily, the Strike King Red Eye Shad Bait comes in multiple sizes.

4. Strike King Bitsy Bug Mini Jig: Jigs tend to be a popular choice of largemouth bass fishermen because they can be used year-round without exception. In addition to performing well in the summer, they’re also effective in the winter when fish are less likely to put an effort into chasing down prey. Since jigs perform better when fished slowly, this ends up creating a great opportunity in the winter. While most larger jigs are effective at largemouth bass fishing, the Strike King Bitsy Bug Mini Jig sets itself apart by being a smaller model. At first glance, that may seem like a step backwards, but the Strike King Bitsy Bug Mini Jig has a stronger hook than normal, which more than makes up for its smaller appearance. For fishermen that want to use a larger jig for whatever reason, the best size is typically around 3/8 ounce for largemouth bass fishing. By being a little smaller though, the Strike King Bitsy Bug Mini Jig can access areas that would otherwise be off-limits, and can protect itself from damage that might occur underwater from wire guards or rocks.

Best Lures for Spring

As mentioned before, when fishing in the spring, the best lures to use are spinnerbaits, plastic frogs, plastic worms, and crankbaits. While they each excel at specific situations in the spring, all four still come highly recommended. Spinnerbaits, in particular, are great for springtime fishing because they can get access to areas that haven’t been covered in too much vegetation since the winter. While topwater lures are also great for spring bait fishing, plastic frogs are surprisingly the most effective in this environment. Of course, the springtime also means the bass are more active than normal, making crankbaits incredibly effective at this point. Finally, as with plastic frogs, plastic worms are equally effective at this point. In fact, most fishermen would agree that plastic worms are the most effective lure in the springtime.

1. Nichols Lures Pulsator Metal Flake Double Willow Spinnerbait: Each of Nichols Lures Pulsator Spinnerbaits may be hand-crafted, but that isn’t what makes them so great at spring fishing. What really makes this product so integral to a fisherman’s kit is its unique pulsating design that attracts fish that would otherwise completely ignore the bait. While the Nichols Lure Pulsator Spinnerbait has been primarily designed to maximize its vibration and pulsating effects, it also happens to be an incredibly durable lure that resists flaking and other undesirable effects from prolonged lure use.

2. Livetarget Hollow Body Frog: The award-winning Livetarget Hollow Body Frog has made a name for itself among professionals for its amazing level of detail. This level of detail helps it to attract curious fish, who are then surprised by the hooks that protrude through its soft body design. Perhaps most important for a plastic frog, the Livetarget Hollow Body Frog has been specifically designed to avoid getting clogged up by weeds or lily pads. As vegetation can be a problem at certain points in the spring, this can be the difference between the success and failure of a fishing trip.

3. Rose Kuli 3.8″6 Jointed Life-like Swimbait Hard Fishing Lure Bass Bait: For the same reason that spinnerbaits are effective in the spring, so too are crankbaits that don’t have to worry about getting caught in weeds yet. As such, the best crankbait for the spring is probably the rather large Rose Kuli Swimbait Hard Fishing Lure Bass Bait. Its large size and accurate detailing makes it the perfect prey for largemouth bass in the spring. Thanks to its high durability and flexible hinge, it is capable of mimicking the swimming action of smaller fish that might entice larger bass to make a move.

4. Zoom Bait Finesse Worm Bait: The biggest strength of the Zoom Bait Finesse Worm Bait is in its versatility. This bait can be fished with a number of styles, from the drop shot to Texas rigged. Plastic worms in general are very effective at bass fishing in the spring, but the Zoom Bait Finesse Worm Bait sets itself apart by using a salt mixture that ensures fish will latch on for longer than with other lures. The five inch long plastic worms that come in the pack are the perfect length to attract both smallmouth and largemouth bass.

Best Lures for Summer

When bass fishing in the summer, the best lure will mainly depend on the temperature or, perhaps more accurately, what stage of the summer you’re currently in. During the early summer, when the temperatures are still relatively low, topwater lures, plastic worms, and spinnerbaits are the best option. By the mid to late summer, spinnerbaits will still be useful, but so will crankbaits as well.

1. Heddon Super Spook Jr. Lure: As one of Heddon’s bestselling fishing lures, it should come as no surprise that the Heddon Super Spook Jr. Lure comes highly recommended for topwater fishing in the summer. As with many of Heddon’s other products, the Heddon Super Spook Jr. Lure isn’t just great at catching bass, but all freshwater fish. This versatility adds even more value to an already affordably priced lure. Its sturdy design also ensures that it can withstand schools of fish.

2. Yum Lures F2 Dinger Bait: Unlike other plastic worms, which attempt to approximate the look and feel of a worm, Yum has designed their worm bait to take on a more eccentric appearance. Interestingly, this approach has paid off tremendously, with their bait having amazing success at attracting fish. As with the Heddon Super Spook Jr. Lure, the Yum Lures F2 Dinger Bait also excels at attracting not just bass, but other freshwater fish as well.

3. Strike King Bottom Dweller Bait: In the summer, when bass hide in deep caves underwater, the best way to get them to come out for a nibble is with a spinnerbait. As far as spinnerbaits go, the Strike King Bottom Dweller Bait is probably the best for this situation. It has been specifically designed not to roll when it makes contact with the ground, ensuring that it stays wherever you’ve sent it. Additionally, the Strike King Bottom Dweller Bait has been designed with innovative new blade technology, which provides a greater flash underwater.

4. Bomber Fat Free Shad Jr.: At a diving depth of four to eight feet, the Bomber Fat Free Shad Jr. excels at catching fish in the summer, as well as other freshwater fish like minnows. For proof of its success, one needs to look no further than its role in many bass fishing tournament victories. In terms of specific innovations, its hard bait design has rejuvenated a market that had previously been dormant and has helped to establish itself as the premiere deep-diving crankbait currently available. Fishermen that are not used to using this type of lure may be hesitant to throw it into areas with a lot of vegetation, but that’s precisely where this crankbait is most effective. If the Bomber Fat Free Shad Jr. gets stuck in a rocky area, simply give it some slack and it will naturally float away and back to you with time. By combining this lure with some of the others listed here, bass at all depths should be covered and ready to be caught.

Given the popularity of bass fishing, and the sheer number of products currently available, it should be noted that this is merely just a few of the many great products out there. Whether you’re interested in a new spinnerbait, or are unfamiliar with what to look for in crankbait, hopefully this guide has given you some new insight into the specifics of bass fishing. Just remember to keep in mind the three main factors of bass fishing: temperature, season, and water quality, and you should be able to find the perfect lure for your fishing trip.