Does color really matter when you’re choosing lures? Well, that’s really the million dollar question, now isn’t it. Many accomplished anglers will say that lure color is unimportant and that bait profile, presentation speed and depth level are much more prevalent.

Others will argue that lure color is critically important in several different situations.

Many swear by the old adage: bright colors in dark water and natural colors in clear water. The idea is that clear water allows the fish to examine the bait. If the color patterns are unrealistic, the fish will be weary to bite. On the other hand, if water clarity is low, bright colors paired with sound and vibration can help fish find your bait in even the darkest of conditions. This helps explain the latest UV craze going on right now in the world of ice fishing.

While those are good rules of thumb to keep in mind, there are some notable anglers who prefer the “do the opposite” approach. Al Lindner, for example, loves fishing brightly colored X-Raps in the clearwater lakes of the Upper Midwest. Top professional walleye pro Keith Kavajecz trolls brightly colored crankbaits in the Great Lakes environments when all of his competitors are trying to match the hatch.

While there is merit to all of these arguments, it’s important to remember that no one suggestion will work for all anglers. It’s up to you to put in the time on the water, experimenting with different lure colors and presentations to figure out what works best on your favorite body of water.

Referring to the video above: When James Lindner and Jeremy Smith hit the water early that morning, they didn’t know what the key to success would be on that particular day. As Jeremy said, lure color isn’t typically something he’s overly concerned with, but on that day, it ended up being a critical factor.

Lure color is a topic of much debate among anglers. Some believe that it doesn’t really matter, while others swear by certain colors for different fishing conditions. In this article, we’ll explore the role of lure color and how it can make a huge difference in your fishing success.

The Importance of Lure Color

When it comes to fishing, having a wide selection of lure colors is essential. Different fishing conditions call for different colors, and having the right color can mean the difference between a successful day on the water and going home empty-handed.

Jim mentions that they have a wide range of different baits for various conditions. This is because different colors can attract fish in different ways. In clear water, natural colors may be more effective, while in dirty or murky water, brighter and more vibrant colors can stand out and grab the attention of fish.

The Power of Experimentation

One key aspect of fishing is experimentation. Jim emphasizes the importance of experimenting with different bait profiles, presentations, and colors. This is because what works in one situation may not work in another. By trying out different combinations, anglers can find what works best for them and increase their chances of success.

Jim also mentions that once you find a certain bait profile, presentation, and color that works, it can make all the difference in the world. This highlights the importance of paying attention to what is working and replicating that success in future fishing trips.

The Role of UV Paint Jobs

In the video, Jim mentions that the bait they are using has a UV paint job. UV paint is designed to reflect ultraviolet light, which is invisible to the human eye but can be seen by fish. This can make the bait more visible and attractive to fish, especially in certain lighting conditions.

While Jim mentions that the UV paint job appears to be making a difference, it’s important to note that it’s just one factor among many. The overall color, profile, and presentation of the bait are still crucial in attracting fish.

The Impact of Lure Color in Dirty Water

Jim and his fishing partner have success catching fish in dirty water using an orange-colored bait. In dirty or murky water, visibility is reduced, and fish rely more on their other senses, such as vibration and scent, to locate prey. Using a bright and vibrant color like orange can help the bait stand out and increase its visibility in these conditions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, lure color does matter in fishing. Different colors can attract fish in different ways, depending on the fishing conditions. It’s important for anglers to have a wide selection of colors and to experiment with different bait profiles, presentations, and colors to find what works best for them. While UV paint jobs and bright colors can be effective, it’s important to consider the overall color, profile, and presentation of the bait. So, the next time you’re out on the water, don’t underestimate the power of lure color. Experiment with different colors and pay attention to what is working. Whether it’s a natural color in clear water or a bright color in dirty water, the right lure color can make all the difference in your fishing success. So, stock up on a variety of colors and get ready to reel in the big ones!