Dialing in the correct crankbait colors can mean the difference between a good day and a great day. Fishing guide Brad Hawthorne is a walleye crankin’ fanatic, and this is how he uses custom colored crankbaits to discover walleye color preferences quickly in various fishing conditions.
The Secret to Crankbait Colors (BONUS: Unique Custom Colors)
When it comes to fishing with crankbaits, choosing the right color can make all the difference in attracting fish. In this article, I will share with you my secret to selecting the perfect crankbait color and even introduce you to some unique custom colors that I personally use. But before we dive into that, let me tell you a little bit about my experience with crankbaits.
My Love for Crankbaits
I have always been fascinated by crankbaits and their ability to entice fish. Last year, I even made a video about painting my own crankbaits. Now, let me clarify that I don’t sell these custom crankbaits, so please don’t ask me to make them for you. Painting crankbaits is simply a hobby of mine that I enjoy doing during the offseason or in between sports shows.
The Importance of Color Selection
The reason I started painting my own crankbaits is because I discovered that certain colors worked better in spinners than in crankbaits. I wanted to bridge that gap and create crankbaits with colors that would be effective in different fishing conditions. Let me share with you some of the custom colors that I have found to be successful.
- Simple Black with Glitter
- This is a great color option for bright and sunny days. The black crankbait with glitter on the top stands out and attracts fish easily.
- Bright Pink Back
- When you’re fishing in changing light conditions, such as alternating between clouds and sun, a crankbait with a bright pink back can be highly effective. It’s my version of a fire tiger pink fire tiger.
- Greens with Chartreuse
- Another color combination that has worked well for me is green with a touch of chartreuse. This color is particularly effective when fishing in waters with changing light conditions.
- Natural Mineral with Gold Flash
- Sometimes, I prefer a more natural look for my crankbaits. In these cases, I create a crankbait with a natural mineral color and add more gold flash to the sides. This gives the lure a subtle yet attractive appearance.
Understanding Fish Preferences
When I start fishing with crankbaits, I usually begin with a loud and attention-grabbing color like the ones I mentioned above. If the fish are engulfing the lure, I know I’m on the right track. However, if I’m not getting any bites, I switch to a different color.
For example, if I started with a bright green lure and it’s not attracting any fish, I might switch to a chartreuse and orange combination. By observing where the fish are biting the lure, I can determine which color they are keying in on. If they consistently bite the back hook, it’s a sign that they prefer chartreuse. In that case, I would switch to a crankbait with more chartreuse on it.
The key is to pay attention to how the fish are eating the crankbaits. If they are consistently biting the front hook, then you know you’re using the right color. However, if they are consistently biting the back hook, it’s a clear indication that they are keying in on a specific color. By changing up your crankbait color based on their preferences, you can increase your chances of catching more fish.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, selecting the right crankbait color is crucial for attracting fish. By experimenting with different colors and paying attention to how the fish are responding, you can find the perfect color combination that will entice more bites. Painting your own custom crankbaits can be a fun and rewarding hobby, allowing you to create unique colors that are tailored to your fishing conditions.
Remember, crankbaits can be addictive, but once you become fluent in crankbait color selection, it becomes a lot of fun and the end result is more fish in your boat. So, I encourage you to explore different colors, observe fish behavior, and adapt your crankbaits accordingly. Happy fishing!
