So you’re looking to go saltwater fishing, and don’t know which lures to get? Well for that you only need a few types of essential lures that will catch any type of saltwater fish you might think of.
Whether you’re targeting redfish, trout, Mahi Mahi, or grouper, these lures are sure to help you hook your next big catch.
One of the top lures on my list is the bucktail jig.
This versatile lure can be used in a variety of saltwater fishing situations and is great for targeting a wide range of species.
Another must-have lure is the crankbait, which is perfect for imitating baitfish and triggering strikes from predatory fish.
If you’re looking to fish deeper waters, vertical jigs and hammered spoons are great options for getting your lure down to where the fish are.
In addition to these lures, there are countless other options available on the market.
However, with these top picks in your tackle box, you’ll be well-equipped to handle any saltwater fish that comes your way.
So, next time you head out on the water, make sure to pack these lures and get ready for a successful day of fishing.
Topwater Lures for Saltwater
Topwater lures are one of the most exciting and effective ways to catch fish. In this section, I will discuss some of the best topwater lures for saltwater fishing.
Popper
Poppers are a type of topwater lure that create a popping sound when retrieved. This sound attracts fish and can trigger them to strike. One of the best poppers for saltwater fishing is the Berkley Choppo Saltwater. This lure has a cupped face that creates a loud popping sound and a tail that creates a subtle swimming action. It is available in a range of colors and sizes, making it versatile and effective for a variety of saltwater species.
See the Choppo on:
Heddon Super Spook
The Heddon Super Spook is a classic topwater lure that has been around for decades. It is a walk-the-dog style lure that creates a side-to-side action when retrieved. This action mimics a wounded baitfish and can be irresistible to saltwater predators. You have a lot of colors and sizes to choose from, so you can adapt to almost any fishing conditions.
See the Spook on:
Skitter Walk
The Skitter Walk is another walk-the-dog style topwater lure that is effective for saltwater fishing. It has a unique design that creates a side-to-side action with a subtle popping sound. At $10 it might be too costly for some, but once you fish with it you realize it’s worth every penny.
See the Skitter Walk on:
Jigging Essentials
With the right jig, you can catch a wide variety of saltwater species, from flounder to tuna. In this section, I’ll go over some of the essential jigging lures and techniques that every saltwater angler should be familiar with.
Bucktail Jig
The bucktail jig is a classic saltwater lure that has been around for decades. It’s a versatile lure that can be used for both bottom fishing and vertical jigging. The bucktail jig consists of a lead head and a skirt made of hair. The hair gives the lure a realistic swimming action that can attract a wide variety of saltwater species.
One of the great things about the bucktail jig is that it can be customized to match the local baitfish. By changing the color of the hair and the size of the jig head, you can create a lure that perfectly matches the local forage.
One of the most highly-regarded bucktail jigs for saltwater fishing on the market is the Spro Prime Bucktail Jig. You’ll appreciate its versatility and effectiveness across various conditions, from deep water to shallow flats. The jig’s unique head design and durable construction ensure it remains upright, mimicking the natural movement of prey. It’s crucial for attracting species like striped bass, fluke, and bluefish. The bucktail material adds a lifelike action that proves irresistible to fish. Available in a range of weights and colors, the Spro Prime Bucktail Jig is a reliable choice for both novice and experienced anglers.
See the SPRO bucktail jig on:
Vertical Jigs
Vertical jigs are a type of jigging lure that is designed to be fished in deep water. They are usually made of metal and have a slim profile that allows them to sink quickly. Vertical jigs are great for targeting species like tuna and grouper that live in deep water.
One of the advantages of vertical jigs is that they can be fished in a variety of ways. You can jig them up and down, or you can let them flutter down through the water column. This versatility makes them an essential lure for any saltwater angler.
The Shimano Butterfly Jig is widely regarded as one of the top vertical jigs on the market. This jig is praised for its innovative design, which creates an enticing fluttering action that mimics an injured baitfish, making it highly effective for attracting a variety of saltwater species such as tuna, amberjack, and groupers. The Butterfly Jig’s versatility allows it to be used in different depths and currents, and its durable construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of deep-sea fishing. It’s appreciated for the ability to produce consistent results, making it a go-to choice for serious vertical jigging enthusiasts.
See it on:
Flutter Jig
The flutter jig is a type of vertical jig that has a unique fluttering action on the fall. It’s designed to mimic a wounded baitfish, which can be irresistible to predatory species. Flutter jigs are usually made of metal and have a long, thin profile that allows them to flutter on the fall.
One of the great things about flutter jigs is that they can be fished in a variety of depths. You can fish them in shallow water or in deep water, depending on the species you’re targeting. They are also very effective when fished around structure like wrecks and reefs.
Another highly regarded flutter jig on the market is the Williamson Vortex Jig. This jig is designed to create a dynamic, erratic fluttering action that effectively mimics a distressed baitfish, making it irresistible to predatory species like tuna, amberjack, and grouper. The Vortex Jig features a unique hydrodynamic shape that allows it to sink quickly while maintaining an enticing flutter on the fall. Its durable construction, including reinforced hooks and a strong finish, ensures it can withstand the rigors of saltwater fishing. Anglers appreciate its versatility and consistent performance in various fishing conditions, solidifying its reputation as a top choice for flutter jigging
See it on Amazon.
Soft Plastic Lures and Their Uses
Soft plastic lures are a popular choice for saltwater fishing due to their versatility and effectiveness. They are made of a soft, pliable material that mimics the feel of live bait, making them more attractive to fish. In this section, I will go over some of the most popular soft plastic lures and their uses.
Soft Paddletails
Paddletail lures are a popular choice for targeting a variety of saltwater species, including redfish, trout, and snook. They have a unique swimming action that mimics the movement of a live baitfish, making them irresistible to predatory fish. Paddletail soft plastics are typically fished on a jighead and can be retrieved at different speeds to imitate a wounded or fleeing baitfish. The Berkley Powerbait Ripple Shad is one of the best on the market, for it’s realistic designs and action that it creates in the water.
See the Ripple Shad on:
Artificial Shrimp Lures
Artificial shrimp lures are another popular choice for saltwater fishing. They are designed to mimic the look and movement of a live shrimp, which is a favorite food of many saltwater species. Artificial shrimp lures are typically fished on a jighead or a weighted hook and can be retrieved at different speeds to imitate the movement of a live shrimp. Consider the Z-Man EZ Shrimp and the Savage Gear Shrimp for a realistic and durable lure.
Soft Plastic Flukes
Soft plastic flukes are a versatile option for both freshwater and saltwater fishing. They are designed to mimic the look and movement of a variety of baitfish, and they do their job very well. There are many options out there, but some of the best are the Zoom Bait Super Flukes and the Z-Man StreakZ.
Spoons and Spinners
Spoons and spinners are some of the most versatile and effective options available. These lures are designed to mimic the movement and flash of baitfish, making them irresistible to a wide range of saltwater game fish.
Spoon
Spoons are a classic type of fishing lure that have been used for decades. They are typically made of metal and feature a curved shape that creates a wobbling action as they are retrieved through the water. Spoons come in a variety of sizes and colors, making it easy to match the hatch and target specific species of fish.
One of the most popular types of spoons for saltwater fishing is the hammered spoon. These lures have a textured surface that reflects light and creates a realistic baitfish appearance. Gold spoons are also popular, as they have a bright, flashy appearance that can attract fish from a distance.
Weedless Spoons
Weedless spoons are a variation of the classic spoon design that are designed to be fished in areas with heavy vegetation or structure. These lures feature a single hook that is positioned at the top of the spoon, allowing them to be fished through weeds and other obstacles without getting snagged.
Weedless spoons are particularly effective for species like redfish and speckled trout, which are often found in shallow water with lots of vegetation. The classic weedless Johnson Spoon also works very well.
Also read: Rapala Rattlin’ Minnow Review
Spinnerbait
Spinnerbaits are another popular type of saltwater fishing lure that can be used to target a wide range of species. These lures feature a metal blade that spins as it is retrieved through the water, creating a flash and vibration that can attract fish from a distance.
One of the benefits of spinnerbaits is that they can be fished at a variety of depths and speeds, making them a versatile option for anglers. They are also available in a range of colors and sizes, allowing you to match the hatch and target specific species of fish.
Here I don’t have a special spoon or spinner choice, as anything that flashes will work well.
Targeting Specific Species
The right lure can make all the difference in attracting predator fish and ultimately catching them. In this section, I will cover some of the best lures for redfish and snook, speckled trout and fluke, and tarpon.
Lures for Redfish and Snook
Redfish and snook are two of the most popular game fish in saltwater fishing. For redfish, I recommend using a weedless spoon or a soft plastic bait like the Berkley Gulp! Shrimp, or the other shrimps form above. These lures can be fished slowly along the bottom, imitating the movement of a live shrimp or crab. For snook, I suggest using a topwater plug like the Heddon Super Spook. The erratic action of the lure can trigger a reaction strike from the fish.
Lures for Speckled Trout and Fluke
Speckled trout and fluke are two species that are often found in shallow water. For speckled trout, I recommend using a suspending jerkbait like the MirrOlure MirrOdine. This lure can be worked slowly along the bottom, imitating the movement of a wounded baitfish. For fluke, I suggest using a bucktail jig like the Spro Bucktail Jig. This lure can be bounced along the bottom, imitating the movement of a small fish or shrimp.
Lures for Tarpon
Tarpon are one of the most sought-after game fish in saltwater fishing. For tarpon, I recommend using a live bait like a mullet or crab. If live bait is not available, I suggest using a soft plastic bait like the DOA Bait Buster. This lure can be fished slowly along the bottom, imitating the movement of a live crab or shrimp.
Conclusion
To end this article, I hope you learned about the essential lures you need to have in your tackle box.
There is no lure that will work all the time, and that’s why you need to switch between multiple lures and also adjust your technique accordingly.
And some days might just not be good for fishing. Even with the best lures and setups, fish just won’t bite.
But that’s why you just red this list, right?
To maximize the potential of a fish seeing your lure and ultimately biting.
Until the next one, tight lines!
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of lures are most effective for shore fishing in saltwater environments?
When it comes to shore fishing in saltwater environments, there are a few types of lures that tend to be more effective than others. Topwater lures, such as poppers and walking baits, can be great for targeting species like striped bass and bluefish. Jigs and soft plastics can also be effective for targeting a variety of species, including flounder and redfish. Additionally, spoons and spinners can be effective for targeting species like Spanish mackerel and bluefish.
Which lures should beginners start with for saltwater fishing?
For beginners, it’s generally a good idea to start with simple lures that are easy to use and versatile. Jigs and soft plastics are a great option, as they can be used to target a wide variety of species and can be fished in a variety of ways. Additionally, spoons and spinners can be effective and are easy to use. Topwater lures can be a bit more challenging to use, but can be very effective for certain species.
What characteristics make a lure successful in saltwater?
There are a few characteristics that tend to make a lure successful in saltwater environments. First and foremost, the lure needs to be durable and able to withstand the harsh saltwater environment. Additionally, the lure should be able to mimic the natural prey of the species you are targeting, whether that be a baitfish, shrimp, or other type of prey. Finally, the lure should be versatile and able to be fished in a variety of ways to effectively target different species and conditions.
How does lure color impact fishing success in saltwater?
Lure color can have a significant impact on fishing success in saltwater environments. In general, brighter colors tend to be more effective in murky or stained water, while more natural colors tend to be more effective in clear water. Additionally, certain colors can be more effective for targeting specific species. For example, chartreuse is often effective for targeting redfish, while white and silver can be effective for targeting Spanish mackerel.
Can artificial bait be as effective as live bait in saltwater fishing?
Yes, artificial bait can be just as effective as live bait in saltwater fishing. In fact, many anglers prefer to use artificial bait because it can be more convenient and easier to use than live bait. Additionally, artificial bait can be more durable and can be used to target a wider variety of species.
What are the top lures recommended for pier fishing in coastal areas?
When pier fishing in coastal areas, there are a few lures that tend to be more effective than others. Jigs and soft plastics can be effective for targeting a variety of species, including flounder and redfish. Additionally, spoons and spinners can be effective for targeting species like Spanish mackerel and bluefish. Finally, topwater lures, such as poppers and walking baits, can be effective for targeting species like striped bass and bluefish.
