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HARD BAITS & PLUGS
Crankbait
A chunky, lipped plug that dives to a set depth and wobbles hard on a simple cast-and-reel; easy to use and great for covering water.
DepthMid-depth (2-12 ft)
ActionHard wobble
WhereReservoirs, canals, mangrove edges
LevelBeginner
How to fish it
- 1
Pick a crankbait that dives a little deeper than the water you are fishing, so it bumps bottom or cover.
- 2
Cast long and reel steadily; the longer the cast, the deeper it gets.
- 3
Let it bang into rocks, wood and points; deflections trigger most strikes.
- 4
If it hangs on cover, stop reeling for a second; most floating cranks back up and free themselves.
BigJoe Tips
- A softer, moderate rod keeps fish pinned on trebles better than a stiff one.
- Rinse saltwater cranks with fresh water after every trip; freshwater hooks rust fast.
- Change direction on retrieve to make the bait hunt and deflect.
Mistakes to avoid
- Choosing a crank that never reaches the bottom or cover where fish are.
- Swinging hard on a bite instead of a steady sweep, which tears trebles out.
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