Bass fishing is an exciting sport that has been enjoyed by millions of anglers for decades. To catch that trophy bass, you need the right equipment, and the most crucial part of your gear is your lure. With so much history and options available, it is challenging to learn about and find the best bass lures of all time. However, we’ve done the research for you and have compiled a list of the top bass lures that have stood the test of time. In this article we review a brief history and details about the evolution of bass lures, defining the best of each generation and of all time.
The Best Bass Lure of all time and our #1 pick:
The Heddon Zara Spook
One of the most legendary lures of all time is the Heddon Zara Spook. First introduced in the 1930s, it has remained a top choice for anglers for over 80 years. The unique walk-the-dog action that the lure produces is irresistible to bass, and it has proven to be a reliable performer in all water conditions.
Why It Works
The Zara Spook’s unique action is what makes it so effective. It mimics the movement of a wounded baitfish, which is an easy target for hungry bass. The lure’s simple design also makes it easy to control, allowing anglers to easily make precise movements to attract fish.
Tips for Using the Zara Spook
To get the most out of your Zara Spook, try fishing it early in the morning or late in the evening when the water is calm. Make short, sharp twitches with your rod to create the walk-the-dog action and be patient – it may take a few casts to get a bite.
The Rapala Original Floater
Another iconic lure that has been around for over 80 years is the Rapala Original Floater. The lure was first designed by Finnish angler Lauri Rapala in 1936 and has since become a staple in every angler’s tackle box. Its lifelike swimming action mimics that of real fish, making it an excellent choice for catching bass in all types of water; shallow, deep, calm, or fast.
Why It Works
The Rapala Original Floater’s lifelike swimming action is what makes it so effective. It imitates the natural movements of baitfish (notice a trend), making it an easy target for hungry bass. The lure is also versatile and can be fished in a variety of ways to suit your fishing style.
Tips for Using the Rapala Original Floater
To get the most out of your Rapala Original Floater, try fishing it near structure like weed beds or fallen trees. Think about where you typically see baitfish and start there. Vary your retrieval speed to imitate the movement of different types of fish and experiment with different colors to find what works best in your local waters.
The Strike King Red Eye Shad
The Strike King Red Eye Shad is a relatively new addition to the bass lure scene, but it has quickly become a fan favorite. It was first introduced in 2006 and has since become a go-to for anglers looking for a lure that can get a reaction out of even the most lethargic bass. The lure’s unique action mimics the movement of a dying baitfish, which is irresistible to hungry bass.
Why It Works
The Strike King Red Eye Shad’s unique action and sound are what make it so effective. The lure’s internal rattles create a commotion in the water that attracts fish from a distance, and its lifelike action makes it an easy target for hungry bass.
Tips for Using the Strike King Red Eye Shad
To get the most out of your Strike King Red Eye Shad, try fishing it near drop-offs or other areas where bass may be lurking. Vary your retrieval speed and experiment with different colors to find what works best in your local waters.
The Zoom Super Fluke
The Zoom Super Fluke is another newer lure that has quickly gained popularity among bass anglers. The lure was first introduced in 1995 and has since become a staple in many tackle boxes. The Super Fluke’s realistic design and unique action make it an excellent choice for catching bass in a variety of conditions.
Why It Works
The Zoom Super Fluke’s realistic design and natural-looking action are what make it so effective. The lure imitates the movement of a fleeing baitfish, making it an easy target for hungry bass. The Super Fluke also has a subtle shimmy when it falls, which can entice bites from even the most finicky fish.
Tips for Using the Zoom Super Fluke
To get the most out of your Zoom Super Fluke, try fishing it near weed beds or other areas where bass may be hiding. Vary your retrieval speed and experiment with different colors to find what works best in your local waters.
The Johnson Silver Minnow
The Johnson Silver Minnow is one of the oldest lures on this list, with a history dating back to the early 1920s. The lure’s weedless design makes it an excellent choice for fishing in weedy areas, and its unique shape and wobble make it an attractive target for bass.
Why It Works
The Johnson Silver Minnow’s unique design and weedless capabilities are what make it so effective. The lure’s wobbling action mimics the movement of a baitfish, and its weedless design allows anglers to fish it in areas where other lures would get snagged.
Tips for Using the Johnson Silver Minnow
To get the most out of your Johnson Silver Minnow, try fishing it near weed beds or other areas where bass may be hiding. Retrieve the lure slowly and steadily, and be prepared for a sudden strike from a lurking bass.
Conclusion
There are countless bass lures available on the market, but the ones listed above have stood the test of time, have a deep history of success, and proven themselves to be reliable performers in a variety of conditions. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, adding these lures to your tackle box will increase your chances of catching that trophy bass. Remember to experiment with different colors and retrieve speeds to find what works best in your local waters, and always have fun while you’re out on the water.