Lure fishing, especially for bass in the UK can be extremely good fun. Also, you do not have to spend a shed load of money to get started. However, you would only be skin and bones as far as equipment goes. Therefore, if you are serious about lure fishing for bass then here is a list of all the things you are going to need.
- Lure rod
- Reel
- Braid
- Leeder (fluorocarbon)
- Lure clips
- Lures
- Braid cutters
- Lure bag
- Lure boxes
- Pliers
- Waders
- Wading Boots
- Nightlight
- Wading stick
Lure Rods
Pricing: Well there is no shortage of lure rods out there. Realistically, you could pay from £50 to well up to well over £500. This depends on your level of interest and how often you go. Or you just have an endless supply of cash.
Rod Ratings:
Lure rod weight ratings refer to the specifications provided by manufacturers for fishing rods, specifically designed for using artificial lures. These ratings indicate the optimal lure weight range that a particular rod is designed to handle effectively. The lure weight rating is usually written on the rod, often expressed in a range of 10 to 30 Grams 15 to 42 grams.
Understanding lure rod weight ratings is essential for selecting the right rod for your fishing needs. Using a lure that falls within the recommended weight range ensures proper casting, sensitivity, and overall performance of the rod. Using lures that are too light or too heavy for the rod can result in inefficient casting, decreased sensitivity, and potential damage to the rod.
In summary, lure rod weight ratings are crucial guidelines for anglers, helping them match the appropriate rod to the lures they intend to use, thus enhancing their fishing experience and success.
Generally, what seems to be the norm, is the more one gets into lure fishing, the more they will upgrade. Remember, some people live and breathe fishing and like any sport will have the best equipment. This doesn’t mean you have to go out and buy an expensive rod, go fishing a handful of times then keep blanking. Lure fishing for bass can be like a science. You need to find the formula for success. It’s not always easy. But very exciting when things all click into gear.
The more you seem to pay the lighter the rods seem to get. This is generally true with lure reels which are next up on the list.
Lure fishing reels: Just like the rods you get basically what you pay for. But realistically you could easily get a reel that would do the job for £50. Like the rods, it depends on how much you get into it. I personally know some lure fishermen who catch bucket loads of fish but use the most modest of setups.
<<Click here to see a full range of the most up to date lure rods>>
Lure Fishing Reels and the Differences Between Cheap and Expensive Models
Lure fishing reels are essential tools for anglers who enjoy casting artificial baits, known as lures, to attract and catch fish. These reels are specifically designed to handle the demands of casting and retrieving lures, making them distinct from traditional fishing reels. When it comes to ‘lure fishing’ reels, there are noticeable differences between cheap and expensive models in terms of construction, materials, features, and overall performance.
Construction and Materials:
Cheap Reels: Inexpensive lure fishing reels are often made from lower-grade materials, such as plastic or low-quality alloys. These materials might not offer the same level of durability and longevity as their expensive counterparts.
Expensive Reels: High-end lure fishing reels are built with superior materials like aluminium, carbon fibre, or magnesium. These materials contribute to the reel’s strength, lightweight design, and corrosion resistance, ensuring they can withstand prolonged use and harsh conditions.
Bearings and Gear Systems:
Cheap Reels: Less expensive reels may have basic ball bearings, which can result in a slightly less smooth operation. They may also have simpler gear systems that might not perform as well under heavy loads.
Expensive Reels: Expensive reels often feature high-quality ball bearings, which offer smoother and more efficient casting and retrieval. Additionally, they employ advanced gear systems, such as gear ratios tuned for specific lure types, providing better control and increased power when needed.
Drag System:
Cheap Reels: Cheaper models might have a basic drag system with limited adjustability. This can make it challenging to control the amount of resistance applied when fighting powerful fish.
Expensive Reels: High-end reels boast sophisticated drag systems that offer precise and fine-tuned adjustments. This allows anglers to exert the right amount of pressure on the fish during battles, reducing the risk of line breaks and improving overall fishing success.
Ergonomics and Comfort:
Cheap Reels: Budget-friendly reels might lack ergonomic designs, which can lead to discomfort during prolonged fishing sessions.
Expensive Reels: Expensive models are typically designed with ergonomics in mind, featuring comfortable grips and handles to reduce hand fatigue, enabling anglers to fish for more extended periods without discomfort.
Performance and Casting Distance:
Cheap Reels: While inexpensive reels can get the job done, they might not provide the same level of casting distance and accuracy as higher-priced models.
Expensive Reels: Premium reels often offer better casting performance, allowing anglers to cover more water effectively and reach distant targets with greater accuracy.
In conclusion, the main differences between cheap and expensive lure fishing reels lie in their construction, materials, features, and overall performance. While cheaper reels can be suitable for beginners or occasional anglers, investing in a high-quality, expensive lure fishing reel can significantly enhance your fishing experience and provide long-lasting performance on the water.
Braid
My favourite braid is, without a doubt, J-Braid. I wouldn’t for one second say it’s the best, but for value for money, it’s a winner. Below are some great points that I agree with, so check them out.
Enhance Your Bass Lure Fishing with J-Braid Line: A Comprehensive Overview
Introduction:
When it comes to bass fishing, having the right fishing line can make a difference in your success rate. Among the numerous fishing lines available, J-Braid has emerged as a popular choice among anglers, particularly for lure fishing. In this article, we will delve into the key features and advantages of the J-Braid line, exploring why it’s an excellent option for bass fishing enthusiasts.
Superior Strength and Sensitivity:
J-Braid line boasts an exceptional strength-to-diameter ratio, providing the perfect balance between robustness and sensitivity. This feature allows anglers to detect even the slightest nibble from bass, enhancing their chances of landing more catches. With J-Braid, you can confidently cast your lures into cover and feel every subtle movement, enabling precise control over your fishing technique.
Abrasion Resistance:
Bass fishing often involves navigating through structures like rocks, stumps, and vegetation where fishing lines are prone to abrasion and potential damage. J-Braid’s unique construction incorporates high-quality fibres, making it remarkably resistant to abrasion. This characteristic ensures that the line remains intact and reliable during prolonged battles with aggressive bass.
Low Stretch and High Casting Performance:
Unlike traditional monofilament lines, J-Braid possesses minimal stretch. This lack of stretch translates to enhanced hook-setting power, allowing anglers to set the hook firmly and secure their catch effectively. Additionally, the low stretch provides improved casting performance, enabling longer and more accurate casts, essential for reaching elusive bass lurking in distant spots.
High Knot Strength:
The J-Braid line exhibits excellent knot strength, ensuring that your knots hold firm even under significant pressure. This feature is crucial when battling with large and powerful bass, reducing the likelihood of losing your prized catch due to line failure.
Versatility and Range of Options:
J-Braid comes in various line strengths (pound-test ratings) and colours, offering anglers the versatility to adapt to different fishing conditions. Whether you’re fishing in clear waters or murky conditions, you can select the appropriate pound test and colour to suit your specific needs, making it an excellent all-around choice for bass fishing.
Smooth and Silent Retrieval:
When reeling in your lure, the J-Braid line ensures a smooth and quiet retrieval, minimizing any potential spooking of bass. The quiet performance is especially advantageous when targeting wary and easily startled bass, increasing your chances of enticing them to strike.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the J-Braid line stands out as a top-notch choice for lure fishing for bass. Its superior strength, sensitivity, and low stretch properties contribute to a remarkable fishing experience. The line’s abrasion resistance and high knot strength add to its reliability, providing the confidence needed to take on challenging fishing conditions. With its range of options and smooth retrieval, J-Braid is a versatile and indispensable tool for bass anglers looking to elevate their fishing game and increase their chances of landing that trophy bass. So, if you haven’t tried the J-Braid line yet, consider adding it to your fishing arsenal for a more rewarding and successful bass fishing experience.
<<Click here to view J Braid on Amazon>>
Fluorocarbon For Lure Fishing
Fluorocarbon is what we call the leader that attaches to our braid. There are all sorts of different breaking strains but most opt for around the 20lb mark. Here is a summary of fluorocarbon and its purposes.
Fluorocarbon is a popular fishing line material used by anglers, including those who target bass. It has several key purposes and advantages when it comes to bass fishing:
Invisibility: Fluorocarbon has a refractive index similar to that of water, making it virtually invisible underwater. This characteristic is particularly advantageous when fishing in clear water or when bass are finicky and easily spooked by visible lines.
Sensitivity: Fluorocarbon lines are relatively sensitive, allowing anglers to detect even subtle bites or movements from a bass. This sensitivity helps improve strike detection and increases the chances of hooking the fish successfully.
Abrasion resistance: Fluorocarbon is more resistant to abrasion compared to other fishing line materials like monofilament. This quality is crucial when fishing around covers such as rocks, logs, or submerged vegetation where bass tend to hide. The line’s resistance to abrasion reduces the likelihood of it getting damaged or broken during the fight with a bass.
Dense and fast sinking: Fluorocarbon is denser than water, which means it sinks quickly, making it suitable for various fishing techniques like bottom fishing or when using lures that need to reach deeper depths. This characteristic is advantageous for targeting bass in deeper water or during specific fishing conditions.
Low stretch: Fluorocarbon lines have low stretch compared to monofilament, which means anglers can achieve better hook sets and maintain better control over their presentations. This is especially beneficial when fishing at longer distances or when using techniques that require precise lure manipulation.
While fluorocarbon lines offer many advantages, it’s essential to note that no single fishing line is perfect for all situations. Anglers often choose their line based on various factors such as water clarity, cover conditions, lure type, and the behaviour of the bass they are targeting. Fluorocarbon is a popular choice for its invisibility and sensitivity, but anglers may also use other lines like braided or monofilament depending on the specific fishing scenario.
<<Click here to view Savage Gear Fluorocarbon>>
Lure Clips For Lure Fishing
Well, two lure clips fit the bill for the convenience of changing the lure while bass fishing. Gone are the days when we used to just tie lures on. But these were the days when we used mono and not braid. (I’m showing my age here).
For practicability and ease of use, the Breakaway Mini Links is a firm favourite with the majority of lure anglers today.
<<Click here to view the Breakaway Mini Links>>
Lures
Lures? Blimey where do we start? There must be millions of different lures these days. From Surface lures down to Metals the choices are endless. Finding which lures for different scenarios is another ball game altogether. To be honest it can get quite addictive I have a hundred and still struggle to find the right lures to take with me. You get spoilt for choice. However, there are always the lures that you know have caught for you on previous fishing trips. All we can do is give you a rough idea from a previous post on our website. So check through the links below.
Top 20 Effective Bass Lures for All Occasions
Welcome to our comprehensive guide featuring the top 20 bass lures that have proven their worth throughout the year. These lures span a diverse range, including hard lures, soft plastics, and metal offerings. While some of these choices might be a bit challenging to procure, we’ve made diligent efforts to provide resources for locating them.
1. Leading the Pack: Pirate Teaser 150mm
At the forefront of our list is the Pirate Teaser. This lure dominated the scene during June, delivering impressive catches such as Steve Wood’s record-breaking 68cm bass. Even a substantial 69cm bass was taken on the same evening using this remarkable lure. One standout feature of the Pirate Teaser is its resilience against snagging, even in strong tidal conditions. Whether employed with or without a weighted hook, these lures remained exceptionally productive throughout 2021.
<<Click here to view the Pirate Teaser>>
2. Xourus Frosty 500G: Surface Sensation
Next up is the Xorus Frosty 500G, a surface lure that has made its mark this year. Though transitioning from the Major Craft Zalts to the Shimano Luminis presented some challenges in maintaining the perfect “walk the dog” action, Frosty’s effectiveness remained consistent. The Frosty shines in its 500G, Holo bait, and Phophero variants, with the latter being a luminescent option. Its optimal performance is observed in relatively calm waters.
<<Click here to view the Xorus Frosty 500G>>
3. MEGABASS SUPER SPINDLE – 5 INCH
If you are a fan of soft plastics then the Spindle Worm is a must if you’re serious about lure fishing, especially for bass. The Spindle Worm has a paddle tail that will entice any sceptical bass into action. Available in several different patterns to suit all fishing scenarios.
<<Click here to view the Megabass Super Spindle Worm>>
4. Komomo II (Asinago): Changing Times
While the Komomo II Joker remains impressive, this year saw us explore the Asinago variation. This lure, previously renowned, solidified its reputation as a top performer. Its ability to excel even in demanding conditions has secured its spot in this guide.
<<Click here to view the Komomo II (Asinago)>>
5. Komomo II (Chameleon): Versatile Charm
Another Komomo II enters the spotlight, this time the Chameleon. Its uncanny ability to salvage challenging outings, turning potential blanks into successful ventures, is its key selling point. The Chameleon’s performance during tough conditions has solidified its position as an invaluable asset.
<<Click here to view the Komomo II (Chameleon)>>
6. Xorus Patchinko 125 (AJI): A Reliable Choice
The Xorus Patchinko 125 (AJI) made a strong statement this year. Its ease of use, especially in comparison to the Frosty, has demonstrated its potential. This lure’s effectiveness stands out, and it fills the void left by its predecessor, the Xorus Asturie AJI.
<<Click here to view the Xorus Patchinko 125>>
7. Megabass Zonk: Time-Tested Favorite
The Megabass Zonk remains a popular and sought-after choice in the market. Its reputation and effectiveness speak for themselves. While not always the go-to in local waters, it truly shines when deployed in deeper coastal areas.
There is no mistake when using the Megabass Zonk. That juddering through the rod tip whilst retrieving that lure, is very plainly why it’s probably the most popular lure out there.
But the Zonk is NOT for the shallower areas fishing over rocks. That lure is going to get snagged, and you do not want to lose this killer lure. THEY ARE NOT CHEAP. But a must-have lure. If you are fishing over sand then you are good to go. If the water is over the meter mark then you should be ok. But the slightest sign of a snag then take it off. Use wisely.
<<Click here to view the Megabass Zonk 120sw>>
8. The Blue Blue Bloowin 140S
The Blue Blue Bloowin 140, though lesser-known, earned its place with notable catches. Its contribution to successful outings, especially during quieter periods, makes it an intriguing option. A deeper diving lure so not ideal for those nasty shallow reefs we tend to love. So make sure you’re fishing in at least 1.5 meters of water before you contemplate using this bad boy. Remember 140S stands for sinking.
<<Click here to view the Blue Blue Bloowin 140S>>
9. Savage Gear Sandeel: Unlocking Potential
The Savage Gear Sandeel, previously overlooked in certain conditions, revealed its true potential. By adopting a faster retrieve, this versatile lure proved its worth, catching the attention of skilled anglers who harnessed its capabilities. Both the V2 and the original version have been blank savers on numerous occasions. You can not leave the house without one.
10. ABU Toby
This amazing metal has stood the test of time. It’s a fishing classic that has been around for ages. The Toby is still the angler’s favourite go-to lure. Whether you are fishing for bass, pollock, salmon or pike the Toby is an impressive metal/spinner to have in your arsenal of lures.
<<Click here to view the ABU Toby>>
11. Albie Snax (Pearl): Weedless Wonder
The Albie Snax (Pearl) emerged as a powerful weedless lure, favoured for slow retrieves during slack water. Its versatility across tide conditions makes it a reliable choice. The Albie Snax is a very popular lure not just in the UK but also in Ireland
<<Click here to view the Albie Snax>>
12. Autowalker (Emil): Surface Success
The Autowalker by Mechanic Lures, specifically the Emil variant, excelled as a surface lure during calm waters. Its simple yet effective steady retrieve offered consistent results. In the right scenario, this lure can be devastating. The Autowalker also casts like a missile so you are covering a vaster area with this incredible lure.
<<To visit Mechanical Lures click here>>
13. IMA Hound Glide Cotton Candy: Casting Excellence
The IMA Hound Glide (Cotton Candy) demonstrated exceptional casting distance and sub-surface allure. Notably, it played a role in a remarkable 13-pound catch which is by far the biggest lure-caught bass around our area of Kent, cementing its reputation as a formidable contender.
<<Click here to view the IMA Hound Glide>>
14. SAVAGE GEAR SURF SEEKER: Metal Marvel
The Savage Gear Seeker continued its legacy as a preferred metal lure. Casting for deeper waters, it showcased its ability to entice bass with efficiency. The Seeker casts an absolute mile.
As for fishing in the surf, it has to be one of the best lures out there. Wind in your face? doesn’t make the slightest bit of difference. This amazing metal will cut through any headwind.
Trebles or Singles? Well, you have to say that the single is a safer bet over shallower rocky ground. But if you are fishing maybe a sandy bay, then the treble should be absolutely fine.
<<Click here to view the Savage Gear Surf Seeker>>
15. IMA IBORN 118F Shallow
This is another belter from IMA. There is a smaller version of this lure, but one at a time, please. The Iborn is another shallow diver. It has a tight wobbling action and will scour the water margins from 0 to 30cm. The weight is 19 grams so it also will fly out there, exactly what we want when we are searching for those bass.
<<Click here to view the IMA Iborn>>
16: Westin Salty 26gm
The Westin Salty is another great metal lure well up there with the Seeker and Toby. Surprisingly enough it is a fairly shallow fishing lure at a steady retrieve. Also, it casts a country mile which is a bonus. Headwind? No problem. The Westin Salty will cut through that wind with ease. It’s always good to have at least one metal with you when you are lure fishing, this would be a great choice for sure.
<<Click here to view the Westin Salty 26gm>>
17. Pirate Seducer (White): Blank Saver
The Pirate Seducer emerged as a hero, rescuing outings from potential blanks. Its reliability and ability to outperform expectations marked it as an indispensable addition. Another great lure for slack water
18. HEDDON SALTWATER SUPER SPOOK – 125
This is another classic topwater lure. This large-looking surface lure will make a splash for sure, grabbing any hungry fish’s attention. The Heddon Spook is a very popular lure, not only in the UK but also in the United States where anglers have had great success fishing for big Striped Bass.
The Heddon Spook has great action if you are ‘Walking the dog’ slaloming across the top of the water. There are a couple of different types of this lure but the popular choice is the larger version of this fantastic lure
<<Click here to view the HEDDON SALTWATER SUPER SPOOK – 125>>
19. Xorus Pachinko 100mm(500g): Small Powerhouse
Dubbed the “Baby Pachinko,” the Xorus Pachinko 100 (500G) presented an effective option for challenging scenarios. Its compact size and versatility unlocked success during finicky feeding patterns. Yes when those bass seemed to be feeding on those small baitfish and generally uninterested in any lure you chuck at them, the baby Patchinko can come into its own
<<Click here to view Xorus Pachinko 100mm>>
20. Savage Gear Pencil: Dawn Breaker
Rounding off our list is the Savage Gear Pencil, a dawn and dusk favourite. Its prowess during early low tides and potential for 40-bass hauls showcases its appeal.
As you venture into the world of bass fishing, consider these lures as your trusted companions, each with its unique strengths and abilities. Happy angling!
<<Click here to view the Savage Gear Pencil>>
RidgeMonkey Braid Cutters
The RidgeMonkey braid cutters are a good fit for all those tag ends that need a trim. The cerated blades will last for years, so no need to worry about sharpening them. Also, another great feature of these braid cutters is that they glow in the dark so at least you shouldn’t lose them in the dark
<<Click here to view the RidgeMonkey Braid Cutters>>
Lure Boxes
Well depending on how you’re going to carry your equipment around depends on what lure boxes are going to be adequate for you.
If you go for a lure vest then you must choose lure boxes that will fit in the pockets.
<<Click here to see an assortment of lure boxes>>
Pliers For Lure Fishing
There are thousands of different types of fishing pliers for lure fishing. But these pliers can come in handy for several tasks that we can encounter in lure fishing. Here is a list of tasks to consider before you buy.
1: Changing Hook
2: Braid Cutter
3: Splitter
You can also use your pliers to assist you in unhooking a fish, especially if you are standing in the water. This way you can cut the risk of the fish suddenly starting flapping around and you get a treble hook in your hand. Not good. You would simply hold the leader with one hand and use the pliers to twist the treble, or single hook free. You still have to be very careful. Failing that, just walk back with the fish and unhook from the dry land.
Waders what are the options?
So to keep things simple here we’re going to look at two different types of waders to see which is a good fit for you.
Title: Comparing Stocking Foot Chest Waders with Wading Boots to Normal Chest Waders like Vass
Introduction: When it comes to angling and fishing in various aquatic environments, having the right gear can greatly enhance the overall experience. Chest waders are an essential piece of equipment that provides protection and comfort, allowing anglers to venture into the water while staying dry. In recent years, two distinct styles have gained popularity: stocking foot chest waders paired with wading boots, and traditional chest waders like those offered by Vass. In this article, we’ll compare these two styles, highlighting their benefits and drawbacks to help anglers make an informed choice.
Stocking Foot Chest Waders with Wading Boots: Stocking foot chest waders are designed to be worn with separate wading boots. The waders themselves end at the ankle, resembling a pair of pants with suspenders. The angler then wears wading boots over the stocking feet to provide traction and support in various water conditions. This combination offers several advantages:
Pros:
- Customization: Anglers can choose their preferred wading boots, which allows them to optimize comfort and performance based on the terrain they’ll be fishing in.
- Versatility: Swapping out wading boots is easy, making it possible to use different pairs for different fishing environments.
- Durability: Wading boots are typically designed to withstand rugged conditions, which means they’re less likely to wear down quickly when compared to integrated boot designs.
- Breathability: Stocking foot waders are usually more breathable and comfortable, which can be especially important during long fishing trips.
Cons:
- Added Cost: Purchasing both waders and wading boots can be more expensive upfront compared to traditional chest waders.
- Extra Gear: Carrying and storing an additional pair of wading boots can be somewhat inconvenient, especially for anglers with limited storage space.
<<Click here to view Stocking Foot Chest Waders>>
Normal Chest Waders like Vass: Traditional chest waders are designed with built-in boots, offering an all-in-one solution for anglers. Brands like Vass are well-known for producing high-quality, durable chest waders that have been trusted by anglers for years.
Pros:
- Simplicity: Traditional chest waders are a one-piece solution, eliminating the need for separate wading boots and simplifying the gear setup process.
- Cost-Effective: Purchasing a single item can be more budget-friendly than buying waders and boots separately.
- Streamlined Design: Integrated boots eliminate the need to carry and store an extra pair of boots, making them convenient for anglers on the go.
Cons:
- Limited Customization: Integrated boots may not offer the same level of customization as separate wading boots, potentially leading to less comfort and flexibility in varying conditions.
- Durability Concerns: Integrated boots might not be as durable as purpose-built wading boots, leading to potential issues in rugged terrains.
- Breathability: Integrated boots can be less breathable than separate wading boots, potentially causing discomfort during prolonged use.
<<Click here to view Vass Chest Waders>>
Conclusion: Choosing between stocking foot chest waders with wading boots and traditional chest waders like those from Vass ultimately depends on an angler’s individual preferences, fishing style, and the specific environments they frequent.
The former offers customization, versatility, and potentially greater comfort, while the latter provides simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and convenience. Both styles have their merits, and anglers should weigh the pros and cons to select the option that best aligns with their fishing needs.
Head Torch
Well if you’re going fishing through the night then you are going to need a suitable head torch. The strange thing about this is that while we are bass fishing we tend to keep our lights off. Shining your headlight directly into the water apparently can spook those hungry bass. We don’t want to do that now, do we?
After all, not everyone always has a chance to fish in the darkness through the night, so when we can we want to make it count. The best way to see what you are doing is to turn away from the direction you are fishing, and then turn your light on. You may want to change a lure.
PLEASE DO NOT WADE THROUGH THE WATER WITH YOUR LIGHT OFF ESPECIALLY OVER THE ROCKS
Some headlights have a red light that is supposed to be okay and doesn’t spook the fish. Some anglers will leave their red light on all the time.
My favourite headlight is the Nitecore NU25. This is a very lightweight headlight with 3 different light settings and 2 red light settings.
<<Click here to view the Nitecore NU25>>
Wading Stick
For people who are looking to stay on their two feet when they are wading out in the water, then you’re going to need a wading stick. But if you’re just walking over the rocks and not in the water, you’re going to still need a wading stick. I have been fishing for years and slipping arse over tit on slippery seaweed-covered rocks is not a lot of fun. It hurts.
If the water you are wading in suddenly turns dirty (This is a regular occurrence if you live in the South East) then get yourself a wading stick.
If you do decide to invest in a wading stick be sure to choose one that can be attached to either your lure bag or belt. This way you can let it float on the water and not drift away. Let’s face it you will have your rod in your hand hopefully.
