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There are hundreds of types of types of fishing lures, with thousands of disparity within each group. But lures are more than just shiny and wobbly spoons and jigs. There is a real science that goes into the making of each one.
The concept is the same no matter the design; to imitate as close to reality a wounded baitfish or prey. The diversity of the ways used to imitate prey over the centuries is astounding when you think about it. Flies alone have been around since the end of the 17th century (however there may be evidence that similar devices were used as early as 200 AD).
Here is a high level description of the more common fishing lures and the characteristics that help make them successful.
Spoons are shaped (as the name suggests) as a spoon Looking at them in your tackle box you not expect them to be overly effective at catching fish. But when they're in motion in the water, they do an amazing job imitating a wounded baitfish. A hook (normally a three-pronged treble) is secured at the bottom and the weight of the lure makes it ideal for casting and trolling. Spoons are especially effective on northern pike, a variety of trout and bass.
Plugs and Crankbaits are often shaped like minnows and can sport hooks at the front, middle and end of the body (depending on the length). They may be anywhere from an inch to eight inches long and do a masterful job of imitating a distressed fish. There are a wide variety of plugs; some of them float on the surface and dive when reeled in, while others are weighted for fishing at deeper levels. Plugs (often called crankbaits) are very popular with walleye fisherman, pike fisherman and bass fisherman.
Spinners are designed for slow trolling and casting and do what their name suggests – they spin. The flash of the lure and the vibrations they emanate can bring trout, walleye and a variety of other predator fish from afar. These fishing lures come in a wide variety of sizes and colors because they have mass appeal with a variety of different species. Spinners typically have a centralized body with loops at both ends for attaching line and hook. When dragged through the water, a shiny blade spins around the body attracting predator fish.
Jigs are particularly effective at catching walleye, perch and a variety of fish. Often made of a lead blob the shape of a small fish head, they have an eye at one end and a hook at the other. Often suited with a rubber tail or bait (minnows, leeches and night crawlers are the most common) the jig is a favorite fishing lure for many anglers.
Whether made of metal, plastic or the most exotic material around (any you can imagine has been tried), lures are the business to catch fish, period. Match the right lure to the body of water you are fishing, and you will have a day full of lasting memories.
Thanks for reading.
Good fishing.
Check out one of Canada's best fishing resources at www.freshwater-fishing-canada.com/ . We love fishing and it shows!
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