The crank bait can be one of the most effective tools in the anglers tackle box. With practice and dedication, learning to use a crank bait can open up more options for other tactics. Find the fish with a crank bait and then use other lures to take limits of fish.

What makes a crank baits most effective is that they can cover a greater range of depths than many other lures. Depth ranges, speed of retrieve and sizes and colors are all considerations for crank baits.

Crank baits come in very small sizes to very large. Some crank baits weigh less than 1/8th of an ounce. Large baits may weigh as much as on ounce an a half. The smaller baits as used in the early spring while the larger baits are used in the summer and fall.

Colors of crank baits can be all one color to a complex array to fool the bass. Many new patterns and finishes can exactly duplicate the colors and hues of not only the bait fish, but the predator as well. Some guidelines for crank baits will help anglers understand what to use and why.

Crank baits work best in pre spawn and post spawn. Spawning fish rarely react to a crank bait because it is moving too fast. During the spring and summer months bass will relate to wood, points and rocks.

These are good starting points for the crank bait. Flat sided baits work best during the summer months. During the pre spawn and post spawn times, use crank baits that have fat bodies and loud rattles inside the lure. Another trick anglers use with the crank bait is to make contact with the structure.

Tick the baits on the bottom of the lake or across rocky points and rip rap. Run the bait IN the lay down logs. Tune the baits to run left or right to go under docks.

Line sizes make a crank bait even more effective. Use the lightest line sizes possible to get the baits deeper to the fish.