As the air turns crisp and the leaves change colors, fishing enthusiasts know it’s time to switch strategies. Fall fishing presents unique opportunities, with fish becoming more aggressive and feeding heavily before the winter months. But to make the most out of this season, selecting the right lures is essential. In this blog, I will explore the best fall fishing lures to help you land more catches, whether targeting bass, walleye, or other species.
Why Fall Fishing Requires Specialized Lures
Fish behavior shifts during the fall due to the cooling water temperatures and shorter daylight hours. Many species, notably bass, walleye, and trout, enter a “feeding frenzy” as they try to bulk up for winter. The fish often chase schools of baitfish, and selecting the right lure mimicking this prey can be your ticket to success.
Let’s dive into some of the top-performing lures for this time of year.
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Crankbaits
Crankbaits are a favorite in the fall because they mimic the small baitfish fish are actively feeding on. Choose crankbaits with shad patterns or natural bait colors to reflect the seasonal forage.
When to Use:
- Shallow crankbaits: Early fall when fish are near the surface.
- Deep-diving crankbaits: As temperatures cool, fish move deeper.
Pro Tip: Use a stop-and-go retrieve to trigger more bites, imitating an injured baitfish.
Jerkbaits
Jerkbaits excel during fall fishing, especially when the water temperatures start to drop. They suspend in the water, making them perfect for slow presentations that can trigger aggressive strikes from lethargic fish.
Best Targets:
- Smallmouth and largemouth bass
- Walleye
Pro Tip: Use erratic twitches and long pauses to replicate the behavior of dying baitfish.
Spinnerbaits
Spinnerbaits are incredibly versatile and ideal for fall fishing because they produce flash and vibration, mimicking a school of baitfish. This lure is especially effective on windy days when fish are more active in shallow water.
Why It Works in Fall:
- Mimics the erratic movement of baitfish
- Flash and vibration draw in fish from a distance
Pro Tip: Use white or chartreuse spinnerbaits for clearer water and natural shad-colored ones for murkier conditions.
Topwater Lures
Topwater lures, such as poppers, frogs, and buzzbaits, can still be effective during the early part of fall, especially in warmer regions. These lures work best when fish are still feeding near the surface, giving you the thrill of explosive strikes.
Best Conditions:
- Early morning or late afternoon
- On calm days with little wind
Pro Tip: Try a slow retrieve with intermittent pops to trigger topwater bites.
Soft Plastic Worms and Creature Baits
As the water cools, some fish tend to move toward the bottom, making soft plastics an excellent choice. Texas-rigged or Carolina-rigged worms and creature baits work wonders when fish are hugging structure or vegetation.
How to Use:
- Texas Rig: For fishing near cover like fallen trees.
- Carolina Rig: When targeting deeper waters or submerged points.
Pro Tip: Go for green pumpkin or black-and-blue colors in murkier waters and natural hues in clearer conditions.
Lipless Crankbaits
Lipless crankbaits are excellent during fall because they allow you to cover a lot of water quickly. Their tight wobble and rattling sound attract fish in both shallow and deeper waters.
Where They Shine:
- Open water when chasing schools of shad
- Around grass beds and underwater vegetation
Pro Tip: Use a yo-yo retrieve to imitate a struggling baitfish.
Jigs
Jigs are a staple for fall fishing, especially when fish become sluggish toward the late fall season. Whether you’re fishing around docks, rocks, or brush piles, jigs are highly effective at enticing larger fish to bite.
Recommended Jig Types:
- Football jigs: Great for dragging across rocky bottoms.
- Swim jigs: Ideal for working through vegetation.
Pro Tip: Pair your jig with a soft plastic trailer to enhance its profile and movement.
Tips for Fall Fishing Success
- Match the Hatch: Pay attention to local baitfish species, such as shad or minnows, and select lures that closely resemble them.
- Fish Fast and Slow: Early in fall, fish respond well to fast-moving lures. As water temperatures drop, slow your presentation.
- Location Matters: Focus on areas where fish are likely to gather, such as drop-offs, submerged vegetation, or baitfish schools.
- Time of Day: Fish tend to be more active during early morning and late afternoon when the water warms slightly.
Conclusion
Fall fishing is one of the most exciting times to be on the water. Fish are feeding heavily, and with the right selection of lures, you can make the most out of this seasonal opportunity. Whether you prefer the fast action of a crankbait, the precision of a jig, or the thrill of topwater lures, there’s a tool for every angler this fall.
So grab your gear, head to your favorite fishing spot, and enjoy the beauty of autumn fishing—because there’s no better time to land a trophy catch!