Here are The Best Lures & Baits
Bass get sluggish in cold water. They don’t chase lures like they do in summer. You need the right tools to tempt them out of their deep, cozy spots.
That’s where ice fishing lures come in. These little gems are designed to work in the cold. They move slowly, flash just right, and make subtle vibrations that bass can’t resist.
When ice forms over lakes and reservoirs, picking the right ice fishing baits and lures becomes crucial. We’ve tested dozens of lures in icy conditions. We’ve felt the thrill of a strike when the fishing is tough. Now, we’re ready to share our top picks with you.
From soft plastics to jigs, we’ve got the lures that will make your next ice fishing trip a success. These aren’t just any lures. They’re the best of the best for winter bass.
So grab your gear and get ready. It’s time to outsmart those cold-water bass.
Top Lures for Bass Ice Fishing
When it comes to bass ice fishing, having the right lures can make all the difference. Let’s explore some of the most effective options.
1. Soft Plastic Baits
Soft plastic baits are a go-to choice for many ice anglers. They mimic natural prey and can be worked slowly, which is perfect for cold-water bass.
Yum Fishing Lures
Yum fishing lures are a top pick in this category. These soft plastics come in a variety of shapes and sizes, making them versatile for different fishing conditions. Yum fishing lures are known for their lifelike action and scent, which can entice even the most sluggish bass.
2. Jigs
Jigs are a classic choice for ice fishing, offering a combination of flash and subtle movement that bass find irresistible.
Arkie Lures
Arkie lures stand out in the jig category. These Arkie lures are designed with precision to create the perfect action underwater. The Arkie lures line includes a variety of jig styles, each tailored for specific fishing situations.
Hair Jigs
Hair jigs are another fantastic option. The pulsating action of the hair in the water can be irresistible to bass, even in the coldest conditions.
3. Spoons
Spoons are a time-tested lure that continue to produce results for ice anglers targeting bass.
Gibbs Lures
Gibbs lures are renowned for their quality spoons. These Gibbs lures are crafted to provide the right amount of flash and wobble to attract bass in cold water. The Gibbs lures spoon selection includes various sizes and finishes to match different fishing conditions.
Jigging Spoons
Jigging spoons are designed to flutter and dart when worked up and down. This erratic action can trigger reaction strikes from nearby bass, making them a must-have in your ice fishing arsenal.
Live Bait Options for Bass Ice Fishing
When the water turns icy, live bait can be a game-changer for bass fishing. Let’s explore some top choices that can entice even the most sluggish winter bass.
1. Minnows
Minnows are a classic choice for bass ice fishing. These small, lively fish mimic the natural prey of bass, making them irresistible.
Rigging Techniques
To get the most out of your minnows, try these rigging methods:
- Lip-hooked: Thread the hook through both lips for a natural presentation.
- Back-hooked: Place the hook just behind the dorsal fin for added durability.
- Tail-hooked: Hook through the tail for more movement in the water.
Species Selection
Shiners and fatheads are popular choices. Match the size of your minnows to the local forage for best results.
2. Worms
Worms are another excellent option for bass ice fishing. Their wriggling motion can trigger strikes from hesitant bass.
Bionic Fishing Lures
For those who prefer artificial alternatives, Bionic fishing lures offer a great solution. These lifelike worm imitations provide the action of live bait without the hassle.
Bionic fishing lures come in various sizes and colors, allowing you to match local forage. They’re durable and can be used multiple times, making them a cost-effective choice.
Many anglers find that Bionic fishing lures outperform live worms in certain situations. Their consistent action and scent dispersion can be particularly effective in cold water.
Nightcrawlers and Red Worms
For purists who prefer the real thing, nightcrawlers and red worms are top choices. Nightcrawlers are larger and work well for bigger bass, while red worms are perfect for finesse presentations. Both can be rigged on a small jig head or used with a split shot for a more natural drift.
Other Live Bait Options
While minnows and worms are popular, don’t overlook these alternatives:
- Leeches: Tough and durable, they’re excellent for slow presentations.
- Crickets: An unusual choice that can trigger strikes when other baits fail.
- Cut bait: Pieces of fish can attract bass with their scent and oils.
Remember, the key to success with live bait is keeping it lively. Use an insulated bait bucket to keep your bait fresh and active in freezing conditions. With the right live bait and proper presentation, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle bass ice fishing.
Specialized Ice Fishing Techniques
Ice fishing for bass requires specific techniques to entice lethargic fish in cold water. Let’s explore two effective methods that can significantly improve your catch rate.
1. Jigging
Jigging is a dynamic technique that mimics the erratic movement of prey, triggering a bass’s predatory instincts. This method involves lifting and dropping your lure in a rhythmic pattern.
Phantom Lures for Finesse Presentations
Phantom lures excel in finesse presentations, making them ideal for jigging in cold water. These lures are designed to create subtle movements that entice even the most sluggish bass. When using Phantom lures, focus on gentle, controlled motions to imitate an easy meal for the fish.
Cadence and Rhythm Importance
The key to successful jigging lies in finding the right cadence and rhythm. Experiment with different lifting speeds and pause durations. Some days, a slow, steady rhythm works best, while other times, an erratic, unpredictable pattern triggers more strikes.
Other Jigging Options
While Phantom lures are excellent, don’t overlook other effective jigging lures like blade baits or jigging spoons. These lures can also produce great results when used with the right technique.
2. Dead-sticking
Dead-sticking is a patient approach that can be highly effective when bass are less active. This technique involves keeping your bait still or with minimal movement for extended periods.
Dreamweaver Lures for Stationary Presentations
Dreamweaver lures are particularly effective for dead-sticking. Their realistic appearance and subtle action make them irresistible to nearby bass. When using Dreamweaver lures for dead-sticking, let the lure sit motionless, occasionally giving it a slight twitch to attract attention.
Rod Holder Setups
A proper rod holder setup is crucial for effective dead-sticking. Position your rod holders to keep your lines at different depths, covering more of the water column. This increases your chances of finding where the bass are holding.
Alternative Dead-sticking Baits
While Dreamweaver lures are top performers, live bait or soft plastics can also be effective for dead-sticking. The key is to match your bait to the local forage and present it in a natural, stationary manner.
Other Effective Lures for Bass Ice Fishing
When it comes to bass ice fishing, variety is key. Let’s explore some other lures that have proven their worth on the ice.
Moonshine Lures
Moonshine lures are a favorite among ice anglers. These lures shine bright in dark waters, attracting bass from afar. The Moonshine lures come in various sizes and colors, making them versatile for different conditions. Many anglers swear by the effectiveness of Moonshine lures when the bite gets tough.
Super Duper Lure
The Super duper lure is a classic that’s stood the test of time. This spoon-style lure creates a wobbling action that bass find irresistible. The Super duper lure works well when jigged vertically or retrieved slowly. Its simple design belies its effectiveness, making the Super duper lure a must-have in any ice fishing tackle box.
Black Bart Lures
Black bart lures are known for their quality and attention to detail. These lures are often larger, perfect for targeting trophy bass through the ice. The realistic finishes of Black bart lures can trigger strikes even from finicky fish. Many ice anglers find success using Black bart lures during low-light conditions.
H&H Lures
H&h lures offer a wide range of options for ice anglers. From soft plastics to hard baits, H&h lures cover all bases. The durability of H&h lures makes them a favorite for those long days on the ice. Many anglers find that H&h lures perform consistently across various ice fishing scenarios.
Lake Fork Trophy Lures
Lake fork trophy lures are designed with big bass in mind. These lures often feature unique designs that create enticing actions in the water. Lake fork trophy lures are particularly effective when bass are feeding on larger prey. Many anglers use Lake fork trophy lures as their go-to when targeting trophy-sized bass through the ice.
Mister Twister Lures
Mister twister lures are renowned for their soft plastic offerings. The curly tail grubs from Mister twister lures are a staple in many ice fishing kits. These lures create subtle movements that can entice even the most lethargic winter bass. Mister twister lures are versatile and can be fished in various ways, making them a valuable addition to any ice fishing arsenal.
Other Notable Options
While the above lures are excellent choices, don’t overlook other options like blade baits, jigging raps, and small swimbaits. Each lure type has its place in ice fishing, and experimenting with different options can lead to surprising success on the ice.
Remember, the key to successful bass ice fishing often lies in presentation and persistence. Even the best lures require proper technique and patience to yield results.