Best Lures for Smallmouth Bass (+some budget options)

If you’re looking to catch some smallmouth bass, then you need to have the right lures in your tackle box.

Smallmouth bass are known for their aggressive behavior and fighting spirit, making them a popular game fish for anglers of all levels.

But with so many different types of lures available, it can be difficult to know which ones to use. In this article, I will guide you through the best fishing lures for smallmouth bass, so you can increase your chances of catching these feisty fish.

Crankbaits are a popular choice for smallmouth bass fishing. These lures are designed to mimic the movement of baitfish, which is a favorite food of smallmouth bass. The Bomber Crankbait Model A is a top pick for many anglers, thanks to its realistic swimming action and ability to dive to different depths.

Another great option is the Rebel Crawfish Crankbait, which imitates the movement of a crawfish – another favorite food of smallmouth bass.

Soft plastic baits are also effective for fishing. These lures have a low profile presentation and can be used to mimic crayfish or other small baitfish.

One of the best soft plastic baits for smallmouth bass is the Strike King Coffee Tube. This lure is infused with real coffee scent, which can help to attract fish and make them hold onto the bait longer.

Another great option is the Keitech FAT Swing Impact, which has a realistic swimming action and can be used in a variety of different situations.

How Does Smallmouth Bass Act?

Before we get into the best lures, I think it’s important to understand their behavior and habitat. Smallmouth bass, also known as bronzebacks, are a popular game fish known for their fighting ability.

Habitat

Smallmouth bass prefer clear, cool water and can be found in both lakes and rivers.

In northern lakes, they tend to inhabit rocky areas and drop-offs, while in rivers, they prefer areas with current and cover such as rocks, logs, and weed beds.

You can also find them in deeper pools during the summer months when water temperatures rise.

Behavior

Smallmouth bass are aggressive predators and will feed on a variety of prey including crayfish, minnows, and insects.

They are most active during low light conditions such as dawn and dusk and will often move into shallower water to feed. During the day, they tend to seek cover in deeper water and can be difficult to locate.

Tips for Catching Smallmouth Bass

The best types of lures for smallmouths are:

• Jigs: Jigs are a versatile lure that can be fished in a variety of ways. They are especially effective when fished along the bottom in rocky areas.
• Crankbaits: Crankbaits are a good choice for covering a lot of water quickly. They can be fished at different depths depending on the retrieve speed.
• Topwater lures: Topwater lures such as poppers and buzzbaits are effective during low light conditions. They can be fished along weed beds or rocky shorelines.

When fishing for smallmouth bass, it’s important to match the lure to the conditions.

If the water is clear, use natural colors such as green pumpkin or brown. In murky water, brighter colors such as chartreuse or orange can be more effective.

The Top Smallmouth Bass Lures

Here are some of the best smallmouth bass lures on the market, according to reviews and recommendations from experts and anglers alike:

Strike King Coffee Tube

The Strike King Coffee Tube is a popular choice among smallmouth bass anglers.

Made with real coffee bean granules and coffee bean oil, it has a natural scent and taste that can attract even the most finicky of fish.

The soft plastic design allows for a more lifelike presentation, and the hollow body can be rigged with a jighead or weighted hook for added versatility.

Keitech Fat Swing Impact

The Keitech Fat Swing Impact is another soft plastic bait that has gained a following among smallmouth bass anglers.

Its unique ribbed design and fat body create a realistic swimming action that can attract fish from far away.

Available in a variety of colors, it can be rigged on a jighead, weighted hook, or even a drop shot rig.

Bomber Model A

The Bomber Model A is a classic crankbait that has been around for decades, and for good reason.

Its realistic crawfish design and tight wobble can trigger strikes from even the most stubborn of smallmouth bass.

Available in a variety of colors and sizes, you can use it in a range of water depths and conditions.

Heddon Tiny Torpedo

The Heddon Tiny Torpedo is a topwater lure that can be deadly on smallmouth bass.

Its propeller design creates a splashing and churning action that can mimic fleeing baitfish, and the natural color patterns can fool even the wariest of fish. It is best used in calm or slightly choppy water conditions.

Heddon Spook

The Heddon Spook is another topwater lure that can be effective on smallmouth bass. Its walk-the-dog action can simulate a fleeing baitfish, and the feathered treble hook can add an extra level of enticement.

Available in a variety of colors and sizes, it’s a versatile lure that’s been selling since 1939.

Whopper Plopper

The Whopper Plopper is a newer lure on the market that has quickly gained a attention from anglers.

Its unique propeller tail creates a loud churning noise and splashing action that can attract fish from far away.

This is my list of the best lures for bronzebacks.

However, it is important to remember that no lure is guaranteed to catch fish every time. Experiment with different colors, sizes, and presentations to find what works best for you and the fish in your area.

Some Effective Budget Options

There are plenty of effective options out there that can help you reel in some big catches without hurting your wallet.

Here are some of the best affordable lures for smallmouth bass fishing:

Soft Plastic Baits

Soft plastic baits are a favorite among many smallmouth bass anglers, and for good reason.

They are versatile, come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and are relatively inexpensive. Some popular soft plastic baits for smallmouth bass include tube baits, crawfish imitations, and stick baits.

Yum Dingers are known to work well for smallmouth bass.

Spinners

Spinners are another affordable and effective option.

You can use them to mimic a variety of prey. Some popular spinner options for smallmouth bass include the Panther Martin and Mepps Aglia. These lures are easy to use and can attract many fish species, making them a great overall lure.

Hair Jigs

Hair jigs are a great option for smallmouth bass fishing, especially in colder water temperatures.

They are typically made with natural materials like deer hair and marabou feathers, which can provide a more realistic look and feel.

Some affordable hair jig options include the Strike King Bitsy Bug and the Northland Tackle Mimic Minnow.

Swimbait

Some popular swimbait options include the Keitech Fat Swing Impact and the Strike King Rage Swimmer.

These lures can be fished at a variety of depths and can mimic a variety of prey.

I hope this list helped you if you don’t have that much money laying around just for fishing.

Whether you prefer soft plastic baits, spinners, hair jigs or swimbaits, there is an option out there that can help you catch more fish without breaking the bank.

Lure Tips Based on Your Fishing Spot

Smallmouth bass can be found in a variety of habitats, including rocky areas, sandy bottoms, vegetated areas, humps, and wood cover.

If you understand the impact of the bass’s habitat on its feeding, it’s more likely that you will catch some nice bass in the future.

Rocky Areas

Smallmouth bass are often found in rocky areas, especially during the summer months.

They like to hide in the crevices and ambush their prey. In these areas, jigs are one of the best lures to use.

Jigs imitate crawfish, which are a primary food source for smallmouth bass. When selecting a jig, choose one that matches the color of the crawfish in the area.

Sandy Bottoms

Smallmouth bass also frequent sandy bottoms.

In these areas, soft plastic baits are a favorite among anglers. These lures have a finesse or low profile presentation, and they are great at mimicking crayfish.

The best type of soft plastic to use is called a tube bait. This type of bait is versatile and can be rigged in a variety of ways to match the conditions.

Vegetated Areas

Vegetated areas, such as weed beds, are also prime smallmouth bass habitat.

In these areas, topwater lures are a great choice. Buzzbaits and poppers are two lures that work well here. These lures create a commotion on the surface, which attracts the bass to strike.

Humps

Humps are underwater mounds that rise up from the bottom. These areas are often productive for smallmouth bass.

Crankbaits are a good choice. They imitate baitfish, so choose one that matches the size and color of the baitfish in the area.

Wood Cover

Smallmouth bass also like to hide in wood cover, such as fallen trees and brush piles.

In these areas, jigs and soft plastic baits are effective. Jigs can be used to target the bass in the cover, while soft plastic baits can be used to fish around the edges.

Final Thoughts

In summary, when it comes to catching smallmouth bass, using the right lure can make all the difference.

While there are many different lures to choose from, some are more effective than others.

By considering the habits and preferences of smallmouth bass, you can select a lure that is more likely to attract their attention.

It is also important to keep in mind that smallmouth bass can have different diets depending on their habitat.

For example, smallmouth bass in rivers may feed more on crayfish, while those in lakes may feed more on baitfish. Select lures that mimic the natural prey from the area.

Ultimately, the best lure for smallmouth bass will depend on a variety of factors, including the time of year, weather conditions, and the specific body of water you are fishing in.

With some experimentation and a bit of knowledge, however, you can find the lure that works best for you and start reeling in some impressive catches, more frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some top lures for smallmouth bass fishing?

There are many lures that work well for smallmouth bass fishing, but some of the top lures include tube jigs, crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and soft plastic baits. The best lure for you will depend on the fishing conditions and the behavior of the fish.

What are some effective smallmouth bass fishing techniques?

Some effective smallmouth bass fishing techniques include using finesse techniques, such as drop shotting or using light line, fishing near structure, and using a slow retrieve. Smallmouth bass are also known to be aggressive and will often strike at fast-moving lures. Experiment with both techniques and see what works.

What is the best time of day to fish for smallmouth bass?

Smallmouth bass are most active during low-light conditions, such as early morning or late evening. However, they can be caught throughout the day, especially if the weather is overcast or there is some chop on the water.

Which type of bait is most effective for catching smallmouth bass?

Smallmouth bass will eat a variety of baits, but some of the most effective baits include live bait, such as minnows or worms, as well as artificial baits, such as tube jigs, spinnerbaits, and crankbaits.

What are some tips for catching smallmouth bass in rivers?

When fishing for smallmouth bass in rivers, it is important to look for areas with current breaks, such as eddies or behind rocks. Smallmouth bass will often hold in these areas to conserve energy. It is also important to use a bait or lure that matches the current speed and to fish near structure, such as fallen trees or rock formations.

What is the best way to rig for smallmouth bass fishing?

The best way to rig for smallmouth bass fishing will depend on the type of bait or lure you are using. For soft plastic baits, a Texas rig or a Carolina rig can be effective. For crankbaits or spinnerbaits, use a direct tie to the lure. When using live bait, a simple hook and sinker rig can be effective.