Best Flat-Sided Crankbaits for Bass
Crankbaits are a popular choice for bass fishing, but not all crankbaits are created equal. When it comes to flat-sided crankbaits, there are certain options that stand out from the rest. In this article, I will explore the best flat-sided crankbaits for bass fishing and provide recommendations based on expert opinions and angler reviews. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, these crankbaits are worth considering to boost your fishing game.
Key Takeaways:
- The right flat-sided crankbait can significantly improve your bass fishing success.
- Flat-sided crankbaits have a thin profile and natural wiggle that can attract bass in colder or ultra-clear waters.
- These crankbaits excel in shallow water, where other crankbaits may be too aggressive.
- Timing is crucial for using flat-sided crankbaits, with the prespawn and fall seasons being particularly effective.
- Top-rated flat-sided crankbaits include the Rapala Ott’s Garage Tiny 4 Crank, Strike King Chick Magnet / Jr., Berkley Frittside, Shimano Macbeth Flat Crank, and Black Label Balsa Hickster.
What is a flat-sided crankbait?
Flat-sided crankbaits are a type of lure that feature a thin profile as opposed to a round profile. This design results in a tighter wiggle as the bait is retrieved through the water. Flat-sided crankbaits are known for their natural and subtle action, which can be particularly effective in colder or ultra-clear waters. These crankbaits mimic small shad or baitfish, making them a versatile and appealing option for bass fishing. In this section, we will dive deeper into the characteristics and benefits of flat-sided crankbaits.
Characteristics
Flat-sided crankbaits have a slender body shape with rectangular or flattened sides, creating a unique look and action in the water. This design allows the bait to produce a tighter and more subtle wiggle compared to round-bodied crankbaits. The slim profile and tighter action make them ideal for fishing in colder waters or when fish are more cautious and prefer a more natural presentation.
Benefits
One of the key benefits of using flat-sided crankbaits is their versatility. Due to their small profile and realistic action, these crankbaits are effective in various fishing conditions and scenarios. They excel in shallow water situations, such as rocky banks or major flats, where other crankbaits may be too aggressive. The subtle action and natural appearance of flat-sided crankbaits can trigger strikes from bass that are less likely to respond to more aggressive lures.
When to use flat-sided crankbaits
Knowing when to use flat-sided crankbaits can significantly increase your chances of success on the water. These crankbaits are particularly effective during the prespawn and fall seasons. When bass are in the prespawn stage, flat-sided crankbaits can be used on rocky banks to imitate small shad or baitfish. In the fall, when bass are actively feeding and chasing young shad into shallow waters, flat-sided crankbaits can mimic this prey and provoke aggressive strikes.
Advantages of using flat-sided crankbaits for bass fishing
When it comes to bass fishing, using flat-sided crankbaits can provide several advantages that can improve your chances of success on the water. Whether you’re fishing in colder waters or targeting bass in shallow areas, flat-sided crankbaits have proven to be highly effective. Here are some key advantages of using these crankbaits:
- Natural Action: Flat-sided crankbaits have a subtle and natural action that closely mimics small shad or baitfish. This realistic motion can attract bass in a variety of conditions and make them more likely to strike.
- Small Profile: The thin profile of flat-sided crankbaits makes them ideal for fishing in colder waters or when bass may be more cautious. Their smaller size can also be advantageous when targeting bass in shallow areas with rocky banks or major flats.
- Versatility: Flat-sided crankbaits are versatile lures that can be used in various fishing scenarios. Whether you’re casting and retrieving or trolling, these crankbaits can excel in different water depths and environments.
Overall, flat-sided crankbaits offer a combination of realistic action, small profile, and versatility that can make them highly effective for bass fishing. By incorporating these crankbaits into your tackle box, you’ll have an advantage in targeting and catching bass in different conditions.
Success Stories with Flat-Sided Crankbaits
Using flat-sided crankbaits has been a game-changer for me in bass fishing. The natural action and smaller profile of these lures have attracted more bites and resulted in bigger catches. I’ve had success using them in both cold and warm water conditions, and they’ve consistently outperformed other crankbaits in shallow areas. If you haven’t tried flat-sided crankbaits yet, I highly recommend giving them a shot!” – Experienced Angler
Now that we understand the advantages of using flat-sided crankbaits for bass fishing, let’s explore some of the top-rated options available in the market. These crankbaits have been highly recommended by anglers and have proven track records of success. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, adding these crankbaits to your arsenal can significantly improve your fishing game.
When to fish with flat-sided crankbaits
Knowing the right time to fish with flat-sided crankbaits can greatly improve your chances of success on the water. These versatile lures excel in specific seasons and conditions, where their unique characteristics can trigger aggressive strikes from bass. Here are the optimal times to use flat-sided crankbaits for bass fishing:
- Prespawn season: During the prespawn, when bass are transitioning from deeper to shallower waters, flat-sided crankbaits shine. Their small profile and natural wiggle make them ideal for targeting big bass in colder waters. Focus on rocky banks and use a slow retrieve to entice bites.
- Fall season: In the fall, when bass are actively feeding and chasing young shad into shallow waters, flat-sided crankbaits can mimic these small baitfish and trigger aggressive strikes. Look for areas with submerged vegetation or structure and vary your retrieve speed to imitate the fleeing shad.
By understanding the seasonal patterns and behaviors of bass, you can strategically incorporate flat-sided crankbaits into your fishing arsenal at the right times, increasing your chances of landing trophy-sized fish.
Remember, experimentation is key when fishing with crankbaits. Pay attention to water temperature, weather conditions, and the overall activity level of the fish. Adapt your techniques and retrieve speeds accordingly to find the most productive presentation for the given day and location.
Table: Best times to fish with flat-sided crankbaits
| Season | Optimal Conditions |
|---|---|
| Prespawn | Colder waters, rocky banks |
| Fall | Active feeding, chasing shad into shallow waters |
Top Flat-Sided Crankbaits for Bass Fishing
When it comes to flat-sided crankbaits for bass fishing, there are a few standout options that have proven to be highly effective on the water. These crankbaits offer unique features and qualities that make them top choices among anglers. In this section, I will introduce you to some of the best flat-sided crankbaits for bass fishing that you should consider adding to your tackle box.
The Rapala Ott’s Garage Tiny 4 Crank is a top-rated flat-sided crankbait known for its impressive swimming action and castability. This crankbait has a tight wiggle that mimics small shad or baitfish, making it highly appealing to bass. It comes in a range of colors and sizes, providing anglers with plenty of options to match the fishing conditions. Whether you’re targeting big bass or looking for a versatile crankbait, the Tiny 4 is a solid choice.
Another excellent flat-sided crankbait is the Strike King Chick Magnet / Jr. These crankbaits are designed to catch bigger bass in tough conditions. They offer great castability and a medium-tight wiggle, allowing anglers to make precise target casts. With good deflection capabilities and the ability to clear vegetation, the Chick Magnet and Jr. are reliable options for bass fishing enthusiasts.
If you’re looking for a plastic flat-sided crankbait, the Berkley Frittside is a top contender. It stands out for its tight wiggle and versatility at high speeds. Unlike many other flat-sided crankbaits, the Frittside maintains proper balance and leveling even at faster retrieval speeds. It comes in unique holographic and translucent colors, making it an eye-catching option for bass fishing. With its tight wiggle and flatter running profile, the Frittside is a reliable choice for various fishing scenarios.
Rapala Ott’s Garage Tiny 4 Crank
| Key Features | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Impressive swimming action | Attracts bass with its lifelike movement in the water |
| Castability | Allows anglers to target specific areas with ease |
| Wide color and size range | Offers options for different fishing conditions |
Strike King Chick Magnet / Jr.
| Key Features | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Medium-tight wiggle | Enables precise target casting |
| Good deflection capabilities | Clears vegetation without getting snagged |
| Reliable option for tough conditions | Catches bigger than average bass |
Berkley Frittside
| Key Features | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Tight wiggle | Attracts bass at high retrieval speeds |
| Versatility | Effective in various fishing scenarios |
| Unique holographic and translucent colors | Visually appealing to both anglers and fish |
Strike King Chick Magnet / Jr.
In the world of flat-sided crankbaits for bass fishing, the Strike King Chick Magnet and its smaller counterpart, the Jr., are top-rated options that deliver impressive results. These crankbaits are specifically designed to catch bigger than average bass in tough conditions, making them a go-to choice for anglers looking to challenge themselves and land some truly impressive catches.
One of the standout features of the Strike King Chick Magnet and Jr. is their excellent castability. These crankbaits are highly versatile and offer a medium-tight wiggle that allows for precise target casting. Whether you’re aiming for pockets of cover or enticing bass hiding in structure, these lures will help you hit your mark with accuracy and consistency.
Another key advantage of the Chick Magnet and Jr. is their performance when it comes to deflection. These crankbaits have good deflection capabilities and clear well if they get snagged on vegetation. This means you can confidently fish in areas with dense cover without constantly worrying about losing your lure. The durability and reliability of these crankbaits make them ideal for anglers seeking a high-quality flat-sided option for their bass fishing adventures.
The Strike King Chick Magnet and Jr. at a Glance:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Castability | Excellent castability, allowing precise target casting |
| Wiggle | Medium-tight wiggle for enticing bass in tough conditions |
| Deflection | Good deflection capabilities and easy clearance from vegetation |
| Durability | Reliable construction for long-lasting performance |
With their exceptional features, the Strike King Chick Magnet and Jr. have established themselves as top-rated flat-sided crankbaits for bass fishing. Anglers can rely on these lures to attract big bass in tough conditions, providing an exciting and rewarding fishing experience. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, these crankbaits are a valuable addition to your tackle box.
Berkley Frittside
The Berkley Frittside is one of the top-rated flat-sided crankbaits for bass fishing. This plastic crankbait stands out for its tight wiggle and versatility at high speeds. It maintains proper balance and leveling even at faster retrieval speeds, making it a reliable option for various bass fishing scenarios. The Frittside is designed with unique holographic and translucent colors that attract fish, and its improved weight transfer and enhanced fishability contribute to its effectiveness. With its tight wiggle and flatter running profile, the Berkley Frittside is a must-have in any bass angler’s tackle box.
This top-rated flat-sided crankbait offers anglers the ability to cover a wide range of depths and water conditions. Whether you’re fishing in clear or stained water, the Frittside’s tight wiggle action will entice bass to strike. It excels in both shallow and deep water, allowing you to target bass at various depths and structures. The Berkley Frittside’s versatility and fish-attracting qualities make it a reliable choice for both novice and experienced anglers.
| Key Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Material | Plastic |
| Action | Tight wiggle |
| Retrieve Speed | High-speed |
| Depth Range | Various depths |
| Available Colors | Holographic and translucent |
When using the Berkley Frittside, it’s essential to experiment with different colors and retrieve speeds to find what works best for the current fishing conditions. The holographic and translucent colors are designed to mimic baitfish, attracting the attention of bass. Additionally, the Frittside’s ability to maintain proper balance and leveling even at higher retrieval speeds ensures that it performs consistently, maximizing your chances of enticing strikes from bass.
With its tight wiggle and flatter running profile, the Berkley Frittside is a reliable option for various bass fishing scenarios.
The Berkley Frittside is a highly recommended flat-sided crankbait for bass fishing due to its versatility, fish-attracting qualities, and ability to maintain balance and leveling at high speeds. Adding this crankbait to your tackle box will give you an edge when targeting bass in a variety of water conditions and depths. Give the Berkley Frittside a try, and you’ll see why it’s considered one of the top-rated flat-sided crankbaits for bass.
Shimano Macbeth Flat Crank
When it comes to the best rated flat-sided crankbaits for bass, the Shimano Macbeth Flat Crank certainly deserves a spot at the top. This new addition to the flat-side crankbait market has already gained popularity among avid anglers. With its unique features and exceptional performance, it’s a must-have in any tackle box.
The Macbeth Flat Crank is specifically designed to excel in cold, dirty water during the prespawn period. Its bigger tail kick and tight action make it irresistible to bass in these challenging conditions. The bait’s Jet Boost technology ensures optimal balance during casting, allowing for greater distance and accuracy. Plus, it boasts premium hardware and hooks for added durability and effectiveness.
One of the key advantages of the Macbeth Flat Crank is its medium-slow rise, which attracts bass effectively and triggers aggressive strikes. Whether you’re fishing in murky water or targeting big bass during the prespawn, this crankbait delivers outstanding results. With the Shimano Macbeth Flat Crank in your arsenal, you’ll have confidence in your ability to lure in those trophy-worthy bass.
Specifications
| Length | Diving Depth | Weight | Colors |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.5 inches | 4-6 feet | 3/8 ounce | Chartreuse Shad, Threadfin Shad, Blue Back Herring, Ghost Ayu |
Black Label Balsa Hickster
The Black Label Balsa Hickster is a highly sought-after flat-sided crankbait known for its exceptional quality and performance in bass fishing. This top-selling crankbait is crafted with precision using high-quality balsa wood, ensuring durability and a lifelike swimming action that bass find irresistible. The Hickster’s small-profile design allows it to dive quickly, reaching the desired depth and enticing bass in various water conditions.
What sets the Black Label Balsa Hickster apart is its tight wiggle and hunting action at medium retrieve speeds. This unique movement mimics the natural behavior of baitfish, attracting the attention of bass and triggering aggressive strikes. Whether you’re fishing in slow speeds or cold water, this high-quality flat-sided crankbait excels in stealthy presentations, making it an essential tool for any angler looking to catch more bass.
The Black Label Balsa Hickster is a game-changer in the world of flat-sided crankbaits. Its combination of superior craftsmanship, lifelike swimming action, and effectiveness in various fishing scenarios makes it a must-have for any bass angler. With the Hickster in your tackle box, you’ll have a reliable and high-quality crankbait that consistently delivers results.
Key Features and Specifications:
- Material: Premium balsa wood construction
- Size: Small-profile design
- Swimming Action: Tight wiggle and hunting action
- Diving Depth: Quick diving capabilities
- Retrieve Speed: Effective at medium speeds
- Applications: Ideal for slow speeds and cold water
Investing in the Black Label Balsa Hickster is a smart choice for any angler looking to enhance their bass fishing arsenal. Its top-selling status and high-quality craftsmanship guarantee a reliable and effective fishing experience. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, the Hickster’s performance and lifelike action will give you the confidence and edge needed to hook more bass.
Strike King KVD Flat Side Crankbait
The Strike King KVD Flat Side Crankbait is a top-rated flat-sided crankbait that has been developed in collaboration with legendary angler Kevin VanDam. This crankbait offers a distinct action and vibration that can attract fish from deeper waters. Its flat side design provides additional thump and a side-to-side rolling action during retrieval, mimicking the natural movement of baitfish that bass find irresistible. With the ability to dive up to 10 feet, this lure allows anglers to target a wide range of depths and cover different areas effectively.
This top-rated crankbait is available in various finishes and sizes, providing anglers with plenty of options to match the hatch and target specific bass feeding patterns. The KVD Flat Side Crankbait has a reputation for its exceptional performance and has proven its effectiveness in numerous fishing tournaments. Anglers of all skill levels have found success using this lure, making it a staple in their tackle boxes.
“The Strike King KVD Flat Side Crankbait is my go-to lure when I want to catch bass in different water depths. Its unique action and vibration make it stand out from other flat-sided crankbaits, and the bass just can’t resist it. Whether I’m fishing in shallow waters or probing deeper structures, this lure consistently produces results. It’s definitely one of the best bass fishing lures out there!” – Kevin VanDam, Bassmaster Elite Series angler
| Key Features | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Distinct action and vibration | Dives up to 10 feet |
| Flat side design for added thump and rolling action | Available in various finishes and sizes |
| Proven effectiveness in fishing tournaments | Designed in collaboration with Kevin VanDam |
| Can be used in different water depths and structures | High-quality construction and durable hardware |
Why Choose the Strike King KVD Flat Side Crankbait?
The Strike King KVD Flat Side Crankbait is a top-rated flat-sided crankbait for a reason. Its unique action and vibration set it apart from other lures, giving it the ability to attract bass from various depths. Whether you’re fishing in shallow waters or targeting bass holding on deeper structures, this crankbait has the versatility to get the job done. Its flat side design provides extra thump and rolling action, making it an irresistible meal for hungry bass.
Designed in collaboration with Kevin VanDam, one of the most successful anglers in the sport, this lure has been tested and proven in fishing tournaments. Its effectiveness in triggering aggressive strikes from bass has made it a favorite among anglers of all skill levels. With a wide range of finishes and sizes available, you can choose the perfect match for the specific conditions and baitfish patterns you’re encountering.
When it comes to bass fishing, having confidence in your lure is crucial. The Strike King KVD Flat Side Crankbait delivers consistent results and has earned its reputation as one of the best bass fishing lures on the market. With its exceptional performance and durability, this crankbait is a valuable tool in any angler’s arsenal.
Conclusion
After exploring the world of flat-sided crankbaits for bass fishing, it’s clear that there are some high-quality options available to enhance your angling experience. From the Rapala Ott’s Garage Tiny 4 Crank to the Strike King KVD Flat Side Crankbait, these top-rated crankbaits offer a range of features and performance.
When selecting the best crankbaits for bass fishing, it’s important to consider factors such as action, castability, durability, buoyancy, bill construction, hardware, and color options. These elements can greatly impact your success on the water and increase your chances of catching more bass.
Whether you’re a seasoned angler or new to the sport, investing in high-quality flat-sided crankbaits can make a significant difference in your fishing game. So grab your gear, head out to the water, and get ready to reel in some impressive bass with the best crankbaits for bass fishing.
FAQ
What is a flat-sided crankbait?
A flat-sided crankbait is a type of lure that features a thin profile as opposed to a round profile. It has a tighter wiggle and mimics small shad or baitfish, making it a versatile option for bass fishing.
What are the advantages of using flat-sided crankbaits for bass fishing?
Flat-sided crankbaits are ideal for fishing in colder waters or when fish may be more cautious. They excel in shallow water and offer a natural and subtle action. They are also effective in rocky banks or major flats where other crankbaits may be too aggressive.
When is the best time to fish with flat-sided crankbaits?
Flat-sided crankbaits are most effective during the prespawn and fall seasons. They can be used on rocky banks to trigger bites from big bass in colder waters during the prespawn. In the fall, they mimic small shad and attract aggressive strikes when bass are chasing young shad into shallow waters.
What are some recommended flat-sided crankbaits for bass fishing?
Some top-rated flat-sided crankbaits for bass fishing include the Rapala Ott’s Garage Tiny 4 Crank, Strike King Chick Magnet and Jr., Berkley Frittside, Shimano Macbeth Flat Crank, and Black Label Balsa Hickster.
