Crankbaits do double duty, imitating both crawfish and baitfish such as shad. As such, many factors go into choosing the right crankbait color, such as water conditions, forage, and other environmental factors. Pro bass angler Bryan Schmitt shares some of his favorite crawfish and shad-imitating colors relating to water color and the predominant food source.
FEATURED TACKLE (retail links)
CRANKBAIT COLORS SHOWN
- Fire Craw
- Grand Craw
- Old Fire Tiger
- Bluegrass Craw
- Clear Chartreuse
- Spooky Nasty
- Pearl Shad
CRAWFISH AND CRAB IMITATIONS
Schmitt highlights the significance of crawfish in his crankbait selection. He discusses the natural molting process of crawfish around the full moon and how predatory fish are aware of this, making it an ideal scenario to use crawfish-patterned baits. Similarly, crab make their way into brackish and freshwater systems that hold bass (think Chesapeake Bay), so mimicking the local crab population can be effective.
SHAD PATTERNS AND THEIR APPLICATION
Schmitt also covers shad patterns, which are effective where shad is the primary forage. The choice between matte and shiny finishes can depend heavily on the weather—cloudy versus sunny days—and the clarity of the water.
KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR OPTIMAL BAIT SELECTION
Use bright, vibrant colors in murky water or during low-light conditions to enhance visibility. Opt for more subtle, natural colors in clear water to better imitate present forage. On sunny days, reflective colors can be more effective, while overcast conditions might call for more muted tones. Schmitt encourages anglers to experiment with different colors to find what works best in their specific fishing environment.
