How to Use Crank Bait
There are many techniques for catching fish, each with its own subtle adjustments and nuances. Most anglers are well versed in all of the techniques, and they use specific techniques depending on the situation and type of fish they want to catch. One of the more advanced techniques in fishing is the use of crank bait. Crank baits are meant to mimic an injured bait fish fleeing for safety. As the bait moves through the water, the angler cranks the fishing reel, keeping the bait moving at all times.
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Instructions
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Cast the bait to an area of water just past where you think the fish are holding. As you retrieve, the crank bait will pass through the targeted area.
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Let the crank bait fall to the desired depth in the water. For every second that you let it fall, the crank bait falls one foot down in the water. It is important to know the water's depth and contours, in order to avoid snags.
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Retrieve the crank bait three turns on your reel, then pause for one second. Then, retrieve it again three turns, and pause again for one second. You can also jerk the rod up or to the side in order to give the crank bait the appearance of a wounded bait fish. Continue retrieving the crank bait in this manner until the bait has passed through the targeted area.
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Retrieve the lure and cast again. With the next cast, you can target an adjacent area of water, so that all of the areas of water are targeted, covered and passed through with your crank bait.
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Tips & Warnings
After each cast, check that your crank bait has not gathered any moss or grass. The hooks of the crank bait should be clean and free of any debris before each cast.
While retrieving the crank bait, using violent jerks during your pauses will give the crank bait a much more realistic presentation to the fish.
Always cast farther past your targeted area so that your crank bait will pass through the area where you think the fish are holding.
Knowledge of the bottom will help you determine how deep you want your crank bait to fall before retrieving it.
Crank baits usually have two treble hooks attached to their underside. These treble hooks are very sharp and great care should be used when handling and casting.
