Crankbaits are a popular type of fishing lure designed to imitate the swimming action of a baitfish. They are commonly used for freshwater fishing, particularly for species like bass, walleye, pike, and muskellunge.
Deep diving crankbaits are a type of fishing lure designed to imitate the behavior of injured baitfish and entice predatory fish to strike. These lures are specifically designed to dive deep into the water column, reaching depths that other types of crankbaits cannot reach.
Here are some key details about deep diving crankbaits:
- Diving Depth: Deep diving crankbaits are engineered to reach specific depths, typically ranging from 10 to 25 feet or even deeper, depending on the model. The diving depth is determined by factors such as the shape of the bill or lip on the lure and the overall design.
- Lip Design: The most important feature of a deep diving crankbait is its lip, which is responsible for the lure’s diving ability. The lip is typically angled downward from the lure’s body, creating resistance against the water and causing the lure to dive when retrieved. Different lip designs produce variations in the lure’s diving depth, wobble, and action.
- Body Shape and Weight: Deep diving crankbaits usually have a robust, bulky body shape. This design helps them maintain stability and withstand the water pressure at greater depths. They are often made of hard plastic, which allows for precise molding and shaping of the lure.
- Buoyancy and Floating Abilities: Deep diving crankbaits can have different buoyancy characteristics. Some are designed to float at rest, rising slowly when the retrieve is paused. Others are designed to suspend at a specific depth, staying in the strike zone for a longer period. Floating or suspending crankbaits can be effective when targeting fish that are holding at a certain depth.
- Rattle Chambers: Many deep diving crankbaits incorporate rattling chambers or small metal balls inside the lure’s body. These chambers create noise and vibrations as the lure is retrieved, attracting fish from a distance and increasing the lure’s overall effectiveness.
- Color and Patterns: Deep diving crankbaits come in a wide range of colors and patterns to imitate various baitfish species and appeal to different fishing conditions. It’s generally a good idea to match the lure’s color and pattern to the prevailing forage in the area you’re fishing.
- Retrieval Technique: To effectively fish with deep diving crankbaits, anglers typically cast them out and retrieve them at a moderate speed. The lure’s bill creates resistance against the water, causing the lure to dive. Anglers can experiment with different retrieval speeds, pauses, and variations in the rod tip action to mimic the erratic movements of injured prey.
10 best deep diving crankbaits
There are many excellent deep diving crankbaits available on the market, and the “best” ones can vary depending on personal preference, fishing conditions, and target species. However, here are 10 popular and highly regarded deep diving crankbaits that have proven to be effective for many anglers:
- Rapala DT Series. The DT (Dives-To) series from Rapala is known for its ability to reach specific depths with precision. These crankbaits come in various sizes and colors, allowing anglers to target different depths and mimic different baitfish species.
- Strike King Pro-Model 6XD. The 6XD is a popular deep diving crankbait designed by Strike King. It can reach depths of up to 19 feet, making it suitable for targeting deeper fish. The bait features a unique lip design and lifelike finishes.
- Lucky Craft Deep Diver. Lucky Craft offers a range of deep diving crankbaits, including the DD (Deep Diver) series. These lures are known for their quality construction, realistic finishes, and ability to dive deep and stay in the strike zone.
- Norman Deep Little N. The Deep Little N from Norman Lures is a classic deep diving crankbait that has been producing fish for decades. It has a wide wobble and dives to depths of around 12 to 15 feet, making it effective for a variety of species.
- Bomber Fat Free Shad. The Fat Free Shad series from Bomber is designed to dive deep and produce an erratic action. These crankbaits have a reputation for catching big fish, particularly bass and walleye.
- Megabass Deep-X 300. Megabass is known for its high-quality lures, and the Deep-X 300 is no exception. It is a long-billed crankbait that can dive to impressive depths while maintaining a tight wobble and enticing action.
- Spro Little John DD. The Little John DD from Spro is a deep diving crankbait that excels in tough fishing conditions. It has a subtle rattle system and a realistic profile that can fool even the most finicky fish.
- Livingston Lures Deep Impact. Livingston Lures incorporates electronic baitfish sounds into their Deep Impact crankbaits. These lures emit sounds that mimic distressed baitfish, making them highly effective at attracting fish.
- Berkley Dredger. The Dredger series by Berkley is designed for deep water fishing. These crankbaits have a tight action and are available in various sizes and diving depths to cover a wide range of fishing situations.
- Storm Arashi Deep. The Arashi Deep series from Storm features a circuit board lip that enhances the lure’s diving ability and helps it stay in the strike zone longer. These crankbaits have a lively action and come in a variety of attractive colors.
Rapala DT Series
The Rapala DT (Dives-To) Series is a range of crankbaits designed to dive to specific depths and entice various species of fish, including walleye. These lures are known for their consistent performance and ability to reach their designated depths with precision.
The DT Series crankbaits feature a durable, hard-bodied construction that can withstand the teeth and strikes of aggressive fish. They are typically equipped with sharp treble hooks, ensuring a solid hook-up when a walleye strikes.
One of the key features of the DT Series is their ability to achieve specific diving depths. Each lure in the series is labeled with its maximum diving depth, allowing anglers to target walleye at different levels of the water column. This depth control is achieved through the shape and design of the lure’s lip, which creates resistance and determines its diving action.
The DT Series lures exhibit a unique swimming action when retrieved. They often produce a wide, wobbling motion combined with a subtle rolling action that closely imitates the movements of a distressed or injured baitfish. This lifelike action, paired with the lure’s vibrant color patterns and finishes, can trigger the predatory instincts of walleye, enticing them to strike.
The DT Series offers a wide range of sizes and color options to match the forage and fishing conditions. It is recommended to choose colors that closely resemble the baitfish or prey species that walleye commonly feed on in the area where you are fishing.
When using the DT Series crankbaits for walleye, it’s important to experiment with different retrieve speeds, pauses, and depths to determine the most effective presentation. Walleye feeding behavior can vary, so being adaptable and adjusting your approach can make a difference in enticing strikes.
Overall, the Rapala DT Series crankbaits are reliable and proven lures for walleye fishing. Their ability to reach specific depths, lifelike swimming action, and wide range of options make them a trusted choice among anglers targeting walleye.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Depth control: The DT series is designed to dive to specific depths, allowing anglers to target fish at different water depths effectively. Each model in the series is labeled with its diving depth range, making it easier for anglers to select the right lure for their desired fishing zone. Versatility: The Rapala DT series offers a wide range of sizes and diving depths, allowing anglers to cover different fishing scenarios and species. From shallow-running models for targeting fish in shallow waters to deeper-diving ones for reaching fish in deeper areas, the DT series provides versatility in lure selection. Attractive action: These crankbaits are known for their lively swimming action, which imitates the movements of natural baitfish. The erratic wobbling and darting motion of the lure can entice predatory fish and trigger strikes. Durability: Rapala lures, including the DT series, are generally well-known for their durability. They are constructed with high-quality materials and feature strong hooks and split rings, making them resilient to the wear and tear of fishing in various conditions. Wide color selection: The DT series offers a wide variety of color patterns, allowing anglers to choose the most suitable option for their fishing location and prevailing conditions. Different color combinations can be effective in attracting fish in different water conditions and light conditions. | Limited depth range: While the DT series covers a decent range of diving depths, there may be situations where you need to fish at depths beyond what these lures can reach. In such cases, you may need to consider alternative lures or techniques. Floating models may not be suitable for all conditions: The Rapala DT series includes both floating and sinking models. While floating models are great for shallow waters or when you want the lure to suspend at a specific depth, they may not be ideal for fishing in deeper areas or strong currents where a sinking or suspending model would be more effective. Price: Compared to some other crankbaits on the market, Rapala lures, including the DT series, can be relatively more expensive. This might be a disadvantage for anglers on a tight budget or those who prefer more affordable options. |
Strike King Pro-Model 6XD
The Strike King Pro-Model 6XD is a highly effective crankbait designed to dive to medium to deep depths, making it an excellent choice for targeting walleye. It is known for its ability to cover water quickly and trigger aggressive strikes from predatory fish.
The Pro-Model 6XD features a sturdy, hard-bodied construction that can withstand the rigors of intense fishing. It is equipped with sharp treble hooks that improve hook-up ratios and increase the chances of landing walleye.
One of the key features of the Pro-Model 6XD is its ability to dive to medium to deep depths. Its specialized lip design allows it to reach these depths with precision. The lure’s lip also generates a wide, erratic wobbling action and creates intense vibrations that can attract the attention of walleye from a distance.
The Pro-Model 6XD is typically designed with a slender profile that closely resembles the shape of baitfish. This realistic appearance, combined with the lure’s eye-catching color patterns and finishes, makes it highly enticing to walleye.
When retrieved, the Pro-Model 6XD exhibits a tight and aggressive swimming action. This action, combined with the lure’s ability to reach deep depths, can effectively imitate the movements of a fleeing or injured baitfish. The erratic motion and intense vibrations produced by the lure can trigger the predatory instincts of walleye and entice them to strike.
It’s important to experiment with different retrieve speeds and techniques to determine the most effective presentation for the day. Varying the speed and depth of the retrieve, as well as incorporating occasional pauses or jerks, can help trigger more strikes from walleye.
The Pro-Model 6XD comes in a variety of colors, allowing anglers to choose the most suitable option based on the prevailing fishing conditions and the preferences of walleye in the area.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Diving Depth: One of the key advantages of the Strike King Pro-Model 6XD is its ability to reach deeper depths compared to other crankbaits. It is specifically designed to dive down to around 15 to 19 feet, allowing anglers to target fish that are holding in deeper water. Attractive Action: The 6XD has a wide wobbling action that mimics the movement of a distressed baitfish. This action can be highly enticing to bass, triggering their predatory instincts and increasing the chances of a strike. Versatility: The lure’s design and diving depth make it versatile in different fishing situations. Whether you’re fishing in open water, along deep structure, or near drop-offs, the 6XD can be effective. Quality Construction: The Strike King Pro-Model 6XD is well-made and durable. It features high-quality components like sharp hooks, sturdy split rings, and a durable body that can withstand the impact of hitting rocks or other structures. | Size and Weight: The 6XD is a larger and heavier crankbait compared to other options. While this can be an advantage for diving deeper, it may not be suitable for all fishing conditions. In shallow water or when targeting smaller fish, the larger size and weight of the lure can make it less effective. Limited Target Species: The 6XD is primarily designed for bass fishing. While it can attract other predatory fish, it may not be as effective in targeting species with different feeding preferences or in situations where fish are not actively feeding on baitfish. Cost: Compared to some other crankbaits, the Strike King Pro-Model 6XD can be relatively more expensive. If you’re on a tight budget or just starting out with crankbait fishing, the price point of the 6XD may be a deterrent. |
Lucky Craft Deep Diver
The Lucky Craft Deep Diver is a high-quality crankbait specifically designed to dive to significant depths, making it an excellent choice for targeting walleye in deeper waters. It is known for its exceptional diving capabilities and enticing swimming action.
The Deep Diver features a durable and precisely weighted construction, allowing it to reach its designated depths consistently. The lure is typically made from high-quality materials that can withstand the demands of walleye fishing, including sharp treble hooks that ensure a solid hook-up when a walleye strikes.
One of the key features of the Deep Diver is its ability to dive to significant depths, often surpassing 20 feet or more depending on the model. This makes it ideal for targeting walleye in deeper water columns or when fish are holding at specific depths. The lure’s diving lip design plays a crucial role in achieving and maintaining its diving depth, while also creating a tantalizing swimming action.
When retrieved, the Deep Diver exhibits a wide and pronounced wobbling action combined with a subtle rolling motion. This lifelike swimming action closely imitates the movements of a distressed or injured baitfish, which can trigger aggressive strikes from walleye. The lure’s vibrant and realistic color patterns further enhance its effectiveness in attracting walleye.
It’s important to experiment with different retrieve speeds and techniques to find the most effective presentation for the given conditions and walleye behavior. Varying the speed, pauses, or incorporating occasional twitches or jerks can help imitate the behavior of injured or fleeing prey, increasing the chances of enticing walleye to strike.
The Deep Diver is available in a variety of sizes and color options, allowing anglers to match the forage and fishing conditions. It’s recommended to choose colors that closely resemble the baitfish species or prey items commonly found in the walleye’s feeding grounds.
Overall, the Lucky Craft Deep Diver is a reliable and versatile crankbait for targeting walleye in deeper waters. Its exceptional diving capabilities, enticing swimming action, and quality construction make it a trusted choice among anglers seeking walleye in various fishing scenarios.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Depth Range: The Lucky Craft Deep Diver is specifically designed to reach impressive depths, often exceeding 20 feet. This makes it an excellent choice for targeting fish that are holding in deeper water or suspending near drop-offs. Realistic Action: The Deep Diver is known for its lifelike swimming action. It mimics the movement of a distressed baitfish, which can be highly appealing to predatory fish. The realistic action increases the chances of attracting strikes from bass and other species. Quality Construction: Lucky Craft lures are known for their high-quality construction. The Deep Diver is no exception, featuring sharp and durable hooks, strong split rings, and a sturdy body that can withstand the impact of hitting rocks or other underwater structures. Wide Range of Colors: The Deep Diver is available in a wide range of colors and finishes, allowing anglers to match the lure to the prevailing conditions and mimic the local forage. This versatility can be advantageous when trying to entice finicky fish. | Size and Weight: Similar to the Strike King 6XD, the Lucky Craft Deep Diver is a larger and heavier crankbait. While this can be advantageous for reaching greater depths, it may not be as effective in shallow water or when targeting smaller fish. Cost: Lucky Craft lures, including the Deep Diver, tend to be on the higher end of the price spectrum. The quality and performance justify the cost for many anglers, but it may be a limiting factor for those on a budget or looking for more affordable options. Limited Target Species: The Deep Diver, like many crankbaits, is primarily designed for bass fishing. While it can attract other predatory fish, it may not be as effective for species with different feeding preferences or in situations where fish are not actively feeding on baitfish. |
Norman Deep Little N
The Norman Deep Little N is a popular crankbait that is widely used for walleye fishing, especially in deeper waters. It is known for its ability to reach significant depths and produce a realistic swimming action that attracts walleye.
The Deep Little N features a durable and solid construction, making it capable of withstanding the challenges of walleye fishing. It is typically equipped with sharp treble hooks that ensure a secure hook-up when a walleye strikes.
One of the key features of the Deep Little N is its diving capability. It is designed to reach medium to deep depths, often diving 10 to 12 feet or more depending on the model. The lure’s lip design plays a crucial role in achieving its diving depth while also contributing to its enticing swimming action.
When retrieved, the Deep Little N exhibits a tight and pronounced wobbling action combined with a slight rolling motion. This swimming action closely imitates the movements of a distressed or injured baitfish, which can trigger predatory instincts in walleye and entice them to strike. The lure’s color patterns and finishes are designed to mimic natural prey species, making it even more appealing to walleye.
Experimenting with different retrieve speeds and techniques can help determine the most effective presentation for the day. Varying the speed, pauses, or incorporating occasional twitches or jerks can imitate the erratic movements of injured prey and potentially trigger more strikes from walleye.
The Deep Little N comes in a variety of colors and finishes, allowing anglers to select the most appropriate option based on the prevailing fishing conditions and the preferences of walleye in the area.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Versatility: The Norman Deep Little N is known for its versatility and can be effective in a variety of fishing situations. It can be used in both shallow and deep water, making it suitable for targeting fish at different depths and around various types of structure. Wide Wobbling Action: This crankbait has a wide wobbling action that imitates the movement of a distressed baitfish. The exaggerated action can trigger the predatory instincts of bass and other fish, making them more likely to strike the lure. Durability: Norman lures are known for their durability and quality construction, and the Deep Little N is no exception. It features strong hooks, sturdy split rings, and a durable body that can withstand the impact of hitting rocks or other underwater structures. Variety of Colors: The Norman Deep Little N is available in a wide range of colors and finishes. This variety allows anglers to select the best color pattern that matches the prevailing water and light conditions, increasing the chances of attracting fish. | Limited Diving Depth: Compared to some other deep-diving crankbaits, the Norman Deep Little N may have a slightly shallower diving depth. While it can reach moderate depths, it may not be as effective for targeting fish holding in very deep water. Limited Size and Weight Options: The Deep Little N comes in a specific size and weight range, which may not be ideal for all fishing situations. Anglers looking for larger or heavier crankbaits may need to explore other options. Limited Target Species: While the Deep Little N is primarily designed for bass fishing, it can also attract other predatory fish. However, it may not be as effective for species with different feeding preferences or in situations where fish are not actively feeding on baitfish. |
Bomber Fat Free Shad
The Bomber Fat Free Shad is a renowned crankbait that is highly effective for walleye fishing. It is recognized for its exceptional diving abilities, lifelike swimming action, and durability.
The Fat Free Shad features a sturdy and robust construction designed to withstand the aggressive strikes and teeth of walleye. It is typically equipped with sharp treble hooks that enhance the hook-up ratio and increase the chances of landing walleye.
One of the key features of the Fat Free Shad is its ability to dive to significant depths. The lure is designed to reach medium to deep levels, often surpassing 10 feet or more depending on the model. This makes it ideal for targeting walleye holding at specific depths or in deeper water columns.
When retrieved, the Fat Free Shad exhibits a tight and enticing swimming action. It produces a subtle wobble combined with a slight rolling motion, closely resembling the movements of a distressed or injured baitfish. This lifelike action can trigger aggressive responses from walleye and entice them to strike.
The lure’s color patterns and finishes are crafted to imitate the appearance of natural prey species, making it highly appealing to walleye. Choosing colors that closely match the baitfish or forage prevalent in the area can increase its effectiveness.
Experimenting with different retrieve speeds, pauses, and techniques can help determine the most successful presentation for the given conditions and walleye behavior. Varying the speed, incorporating occasional twitches or pauses, or even using a stop-and-go retrieve can imitate the erratic movements of injured prey and potentially elicit more strikes from walleye.
The Fat Free Shad is renowned for its durability, allowing anglers to confidently fish it in various conditions and environments. Its robust construction ensures it can withstand the demands of walleye fishing and continue to perform effectively over time.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Wide Wobbling Action: The Fat Free Shad is known for its wide and aggressive wobbling action, which mimics the movement of a wounded baitfish. This action can attract the attention of bass and trigger their predatory instincts, increasing the chances of a strike. Floating or Diving Models: The Fat Free Shad is available in both floating and diving models. The floating version is effective for fishing shallow areas and working the lure near the surface, while the diving models can reach greater depths, allowing anglers to target fish holding in deeper water. Quality Construction: Bomber lures are known for their durability and quality. The Fat Free Shad features sharp and sturdy hooks, strong split rings, and a tough body that can withstand strikes and hitting underwater structures. Versatile Size Range: The Fat Free Shad comes in a range of sizes, from smaller versions for finesse fishing to larger models for targeting bigger fish. This versatility allows anglers to choose the appropriate size based on the prevailing conditions and the size of the fish they are targeting. | Limited Color Options: Compared to some other crankbaits, the Fat Free Shad may have a more limited color selection. While it still offers various color patterns, some anglers may prefer a wider range of options to match specific water and light conditions. Hook Quality: While the Fat Free Shad generally features quality hooks, some anglers have reported instances of hooks bending or breaking under intense pressure or during fights with larger fish. It may be worth considering upgrading the hooks if targeting larger or more aggressive species. Susceptible to Snagging: Due to its wide wobbling action, the Fat Free Shad can be more prone to snagging on underwater structures like rocks, stumps, or vegetation. Anglers need to be mindful of the fishing environment and retrieve the lure carefully to minimize snagging. |
Megabass Deep-X 300
The Megabass Deep-X 300 is a high-quality crankbait that is specifically designed for targeting walleye in deeper water. It is renowned for its exceptional diving capabilities, realistic swimming action, and attention to detail.
The Deep-X 300 features a solid and durable construction, ensuring its ability to withstand the challenges of walleye fishing. It is often equipped with sharp and reliable treble hooks that provide solid hook sets and increase the chances of landing walleye.
One of the key features of the Deep-X 300 is its impressive diving ability. It is designed to reach significant depths, often diving 10 to 15 feet or more depending on the model. The lure’s specially designed lip creates resistance in the water, allowing it to dive quickly and maintain its depth throughout the retrieve.
When retrieved, the Deep-X 300 exhibits a lifelike swimming action that closely imitates the movements of a wounded or fleeing baitfish. Its tight wobbling motion combined with a subtle rolling action can trigger the predatory instincts of walleye and entice them to strike. The lure’s attention to detail, including its color patterns and finishes, further enhances its realism and appeal.
Experimenting with different retrieve speeds and techniques can help determine the most effective presentation for the given conditions and walleye behavior. Varying the speed, incorporating pauses or occasional twitches, or even employing a stop-and-go retrieve can imitate the erratic movements of injured prey and increase the chances of attracting strikes from walleye.
The Deep-X 300 is often crafted with high-quality materials and precise attention to detail, reflecting Megabass’s commitment to producing top-notch lures. This attention to craftsmanship ensures the lure’s durability and performance, allowing anglers to fish with confidence in various environments and situations.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Deep Diving Ability: The Deep-X 300 is designed to dive to significant depths, often exceeding 20 feet. Its unique lip design and weight distribution allow it to reach deeper water where other crankbaits may struggle to reach. This makes it effective for targeting fish that are holding in deeper areas or suspending near drop-offs. Realistic Action: The Deep-X 300 has a natural and lifelike swimming action that imitates the movement of a baitfish. The lure’s tight wobbling action and subtle vibrations can be highly enticing to bass and other predatory fish, increasing the chances of attracting strikes. High-Quality Components: Megabass lures are known for their high-quality construction, and the Deep-X 300 is no exception. It features sharp and durable hooks, strong split rings, and a well-crafted body that can withstand the impact of hitting rocks or other underwater structures. Unique Color Patterns: Megabass lures are often praised for their unique and highly detailed color patterns. The Deep-X 300 is available in a variety of eye-catching colors that can closely resemble the local forage, providing an additional advantage when trying to entice fish. | Price: Megabass lures, including the Deep-X 300, tend to be on the higher end of the price range. The advanced design, high-quality components, and attention to detail justify the cost for many anglers, but it may be a limiting factor for those on a budget or looking for more affordable options. Limited Availability: Megabass lures can sometimes be challenging to find in certain regions. Their popularity and limited production may result in limited availability in some tackle stores or online platforms. Size and Weight: The Deep-X 300 is a larger and heavier crankbait compared to some other options. While this can be advantageous for diving deeper, it may not be as effective in shallow water or when targeting smaller fish. |
Spro Little John DD
The Spro Little John DD is a versatile and effective crankbait designed for targeting walleye, especially in deeper water. It is known for its exceptional diving capabilities, realistic swimming action, and durability.
The Little John DD features a robust and solid construction, making it capable of withstanding the demands of walleye fishing. It is often equipped with sharp treble hooks that enhance hook-up ratios and increase the chances of landing walleye.
One of the key features of the Little John DD is its ability to dive to significant depths. The lure is designed to reach medium to deep levels, often diving 15 feet or more depending on the model. This makes it ideal for targeting walleye holding at specific depths or in deeper water columns.
When retrieved, the Little John DD exhibits a tight and natural swimming action. It produces a subtle wobble combined with a slight rolling motion, closely resembling the movements of a distressed or injured baitfish. This lifelike action can trigger predatory instincts in walleye and entice them to strike.
The lure’s color patterns and finishes are carefully crafted to imitate the appearance of natural prey species, making it highly attractive to walleye. Choosing colors that closely match the prevalent baitfish or forage in the area can increase its effectiveness.
Experimenting with different retrieve speeds, pauses, and techniques can help determine the most successful presentation for the given conditions and walleye behavior. Varying the speed, incorporating occasional twitches or pauses, or even using a stop-and-go retrieve can imitate the erratic movements of injured prey and potentially elicit more strikes from walleye.
The Little John DD is known for its durability, allowing anglers to fish it with confidence in various conditions and environments. Its robust construction ensures it can withstand the challenges of walleye fishing and continue to perform effectively over time.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Deep Diving Ability: The Little John DD is specifically designed to reach impressive depths, typically diving in the range of 15 to 20 feet. Its long lip and weight distribution allow it to target fish holding in deeper water or suspending near drop-offs, making it an effective lure for exploring deep structures. Durable Construction: Spro lures, including the Little John DD, are known for their durability. They feature quality hooks, strong split rings, and a tough body that can withstand the impact of hitting underwater structures. This durability ensures that the lure can handle the rigors of fishing in demanding conditions. Natural Swimming Action: The Little John DD offers a realistic swimming action that mimics the movement of a distressed baitfish. It has a tight wobble and a subtle rolling motion, which can be highly attractive to bass and other predatory fish. The lifelike action increases the chances of triggering strikes. Variety of Color Options: The Little John DD comes in a wide range of color patterns, allowing anglers to match the prevailing water conditions and mimic the local forage. This versatility in color selection increases the chances of enticing fish and finding the right combination that works best. | Limited Versatility: While the Little John DD is highly effective in deep-water situations, its diving depth may limit its effectiveness in shallower water or when fish are holding in mid-depth areas. Anglers may need to consider other lures or techniques for targeting fish in those scenarios. Price: The Little John DD, like many high-quality crankbaits, can be relatively more expensive compared to some other options. The advanced design, durability, and performance of the lure contribute to its higher price point, which may be a limiting factor for anglers on a budget. Limited Availability: Spro lures, including the Little John DD, may not be as widely available as some other brands in certain regions. It’s worth checking local tackle stores or online platforms to ensure availability before making a purchase. |
Livingston Lures Deep Impact
The Livingston Lures Deep Impact is a highly effective crankbait designed for targeting walleye, especially in deeper waters. It is renowned for its innovative technology, realistic swimming action, and enticing features.
The Deep Impact features a durable construction that can withstand the challenges of walleye fishing. It is often equipped with sharp treble hooks that enhance hook-up ratios and increase the chances of landing walleye.
One of the key features of the Deep Impact is its advanced sound and vibration technology. It is equipped with a built-in electronic sound chamber that emits various natural sounds and vibrations, mimicking the behavior of prey species. This technology can attract walleye from a distance and trigger their predatory instincts.
When retrieved, the Deep Impact exhibits a lifelike swimming action that closely imitates the movements of a wounded or fleeing baitfish. Its tight wobbling motion combined with subtle rolling action creates an enticing presentation in the water, enticing walleye to strike.
The lure’s color patterns and finishes are carefully designed to imitate the appearance of natural baitfish, making it highly appealing to walleye. Choosing colors that closely match the prevalent forage in the area can further enhance its effectiveness.
The Deep Impact allows for versatility in presentation. Anglers can experiment with different retrieve speeds, pauses, and techniques to find the most successful approach for the given conditions and walleye behavior. Varying the speed, incorporating occasional twitches or pauses, or even employing a stop-and-go retrieve can imitate the erratic movements of injured prey and increase the chances of attracting strikes from walleye.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| EBS Sound Technology: One of the unique features of the Deep Impact is the inclusion of Electronic Baitfish Sounds (EBS) Technology. This technology emits actual sounds of baitfish, such as shad or crawfish, which can attract predatory fish and trigger strikes. The EBS Technology can be particularly effective in murky or stained water where fish rely more on sound and vibration to locate prey. Deep Diving Ability: The Deep Impact is designed to dive to significant depths, often exceeding 20 feet. This makes it suitable for targeting fish holding in deeper water or suspending near drop-offs. Its ability to reach those depths allows anglers to explore a wide range of structures and cover more water. Realistic Action: The Deep Impact features a lifelike swimming action that mimics the movement of a distressed baitfish. It has a tight wobble and natural body roll that can be highly attractive to bass and other predatory fish, increasing the chances of triggering strikes. High-Quality Construction: Livingston Lures are known for their quality construction, and the Deep Impact is no exception. It features sharp and durable hooks, sturdy split rings, and a tough body that can withstand the impact of hitting rocks or other underwater structures. | Price: The Livingston Lures Deep Impact can be relatively more expensive compared to some other crankbaits on the market. The inclusion of advanced features, such as the EBS Technology, contributes to the higher price point, which may be a limiting factor for anglers on a budget. Limited Availability: Livingston Lures may not be as widely available as some other brands in certain regions. It’s worth checking local tackle stores or online platforms to ensure availability before making a purchase. Battery Life: The Deep Impact’s EBS Technology is powered by a replaceable battery. While the battery life can vary depending on usage, it’s important to keep track of the battery level and have spare batteries on hand to ensure the continuous functioning of the EBS Technology. |
Berkley Dredger
The Berkley Dredger is a highly regarded crankbait designed specifically for targeting walleye. It is known for its exceptional diving capabilities, lifelike swimming action, and durability.
The Dredger features a solid and robust construction, ensuring it can withstand the demands of walleye fishing. It is typically equipped with sharp treble hooks that provide solid hook sets and increase the chances of landing walleye.
One of the key features of the Dredger is its impressive diving ability. It is designed to reach medium to deep depths, often diving 15 feet or more depending on the model. This makes it ideal for targeting walleye holding at specific depths or in deeper water columns.
When retrieved, the Dredger exhibits a realistic swimming action that closely mimics the movements of a distressed or injured baitfish. Its tight wobbling motion combined with a subtle rolling action creates an enticing presentation in the water, triggering the predatory instincts of walleye and enticing them to strike.
The lure’s color patterns and finishes are carefully crafted to imitate the appearance of natural prey species, making it highly attractive to walleye. Selecting colors that closely match the prevalent baitfish or forage in the area can further enhance its effectiveness.
Experimenting with different retrieve speeds, pauses, and techniques can help determine the most successful presentation for the given conditions and walleye behavior. Varying the speed, incorporating occasional twitches or pauses, or even using a stop-and-go retrieve can imitate the erratic movements of injured prey and increase the chances of attracting strikes from walleye.
The Dredger is designed for durability and longevity, allowing anglers to fish it confidently in various conditions and environments. Its solid construction ensures it can withstand the challenges of walleye fishing and continue to perform effectively over time.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Deep Diving Ability: The Berkley Dredger is specifically designed to reach impressive depths, often exceeding 20 feet. Its advanced lip design and weight distribution enable it to target fish holding in deeper water or near drop-offs, allowing anglers to access areas that are difficult to reach with shallower-diving lures. Wide Wobbling Action: The Dredger has a wide and aggressive wobbling action that mimics the movement of a distressed baitfish. This action can grab the attention of bass and other predatory fish, triggering their feeding instincts and increasing the likelihood of a strike. Quality Construction: The Berkley Dredger is constructed with quality components. It features sharp and durable hooks, strong split rings, and a sturdy body that can withstand the impact of hitting rocks or other underwater structures. The durability ensures the lure can handle tough fishing conditions and withstand the fight with powerful fish. Range of Color Options: The Dredger is available in a variety of color patterns, allowing anglers to select the best color that matches the prevailing water and light conditions. Having a range of color options increases the versatility and adaptability of the lure. | Size and Weight: The Dredger is a larger and heavier crankbait compared to some other options. While this allows it to dive deeper, it may not be as effective in shallower water or when targeting smaller fish that prefer smaller prey. Limited Target Species: While the Dredger is primarily designed for bass fishing, it can also attract other predatory fish. However, it may not be as effective for species with different feeding preferences or in situations where fish are not actively feeding on baitfish. Price: The Berkley Dredger is priced at a higher range compared to some other crankbaits. The advanced design and quality construction contribute to the higher price point, which may be a consideration for anglers on a budget or looking for more affordable options. |
Storm Arashi Deep
The Storm Arashi Deep is a highly effective crankbait specifically designed for targeting walleye in deeper water. It is known for its exceptional diving abilities, lifelike swimming action, and durability.
The Arashi Deep features a solid and sturdy construction that allows it to withstand the challenges of walleye fishing. It is often equipped with sharp treble hooks that provide solid hook sets and increase the chances of landing walleye.
One of the key features of the Arashi Deep is its impressive diving ability. It is designed to reach significant depths, often diving 10 to 15 feet or more depending on the model. This makes it ideal for targeting walleye holding at specific depths or in deeper water columns.
When retrieved, the Arashi Deep exhibits a lifelike swimming action that closely imitates the movements of a distressed or injured baitfish. Its tight wobbling motion combined with a subtle rolling action creates an enticing presentation in the water, triggering the predatory instincts of walleye and enticing them to strike.
The lure’s color patterns and finishes are carefully designed to imitate the appearance of natural prey species, making it highly appealing to walleye. Choosing colors that closely match the prevalent baitfish or forage in the area can further enhance its effectiveness.
Experimenting with different retrieve speeds, pauses, and techniques can help determine the most successful presentation for the given conditions and walleye behavior. Varying the speed, incorporating occasional twitches or pauses, or even using a stop-and-go retrieve can imitate the erratic movements of injured prey and increase the chances of attracting strikes from walleye.
The Arashi Deep is built with durability in mind, allowing anglers to fish it confidently in various conditions and environments. Its solid construction ensures it can withstand the challenges of walleye fishing and continue to perform effectively over time.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Deep Diving Ability: The Storm Arashi Deep is specifically designed to dive deep, typically reaching depths of 15 to 20 feet. Its elongated lip and weight distribution allow it to target fish holding in deeper water or suspending near drop-offs, providing access to areas that are difficult to reach with shallower-diving lures. Realistic Action: The Arashi Deep offers a natural and lifelike swimming action that imitates the movement of a distressed baitfish. It has a tight wobbling action combined with a subtle rolling motion, which can be highly attractive to bass and other predatory fish, increasing the chances of triggering strikes. Durable Construction: The Storm Arashi Deep is constructed with quality components. It features sharp and durable hooks, sturdy split rings, and a tough body that can withstand the impact of hitting rocks or other underwater structures. The durability ensures the lure can handle the rigors of fishing in demanding conditions. Color and Pattern Options: The Arashi Deep comes in a variety of color patterns, allowing anglers to choose the best color that matches the prevailing water and light conditions. This variety in color options increases the versatility and adaptability of the lure, helping to increase its effectiveness. | Limited Size Range: The Storm Arashi Deep may have a more limited size range compared to some other crankbaits. This may limit its effectiveness when targeting smaller fish or situations where a smaller profile bait is more suitable. Price: The Storm Arashi Deep can be relatively more expensive compared to some other crankbaits on the market. The advanced design, durable construction, and performance of the lure contribute to its higher price point, which may be a consideration for anglers on a budget. Limited Availability: Storm lures, including the Arashi Deep, may not be as widely available as some other brands in certain regions. It’s worth checking local tackle stores or online platforms to ensure availability before making a purchase. |
