Cranking for Smallmouth Bass

Crankbaits are a great way to catch smallmouth bass, and they can be used in a variety of water conditions. 

To fish crankbaits for smallmouth bass, you will need a medium to medium-heavy power, moderate-action rod and matching reel; 10-12 pound test line; and a variety of crankbaits.

There are two main types of crankbaits: shallow-running and deep-diving. Shallow-running crankbaits will stay in the top 10 feet of water, while deep-diving crankbaits will go down to 20 or even 30 feet.

When choosing crankbaits for smallmouth bass, it is important to consider the water clarity. In clear water, you will need to use a crankbait with a muted, more natural color pattern. In stained or muddy water, you can use a brighter color pattern.

To fish crankbaits, cast them out and reel them in at a fairly high speed. You can also either pause the bait or impart a jerk periodically. Smallmouth bass will often strike crankbaits when the retrieve suddenly becomes erratic.

Here are some additional tips for fishing crankbaits for smallmouth bass:

• Use a variety of colors and sizes to find what the fish are biting on.

• Fish crankbaits in areas where smallmouth bass are likely to be found, such as around rocks, wood, weeds and offshore structure.

• Vary your retrieve speed and action to help trigger more strikes.

Bass pro Kevin VanDam is one of the world’s best crankbait anglers around, especially when it comes to fishing crankbaits for smallmouths. Take a few minutes and watch the following video where he explains his smallmouth cranking system…

Interesting point - keep the crankbait at a depth that has the smallies looking up. I’m going to have to give that a try myself!

Cranking Rock Piles for Big Springtime Smallmouth Bass

Fishing rock piles with crankbaits can be a very productive way to target big smallmouth bass in the spring. By using the right gear and fishing the bait properly, you can put yourself in a position to land some great bass.

Here are a few tips for fishing rock piles with crankbaits:

• Use a 7' medium power moderate-fast action rod and medium speed reel;
• Choose the right type of crankbait for the depth of the water and the structure of the rock pile;
• Work the bait slowly and methodically keeping the bait in contact with the bottom;
• Pause the bait occasionally; &
• Be patient and persistent.

Take a moment and watch the video below to see how Frank Scalish with Lurenet approaches crankbait fishing rock piles for big spring smallmouths...

Crankin’ Tips for Smallmouth Bass

Much of the time smallmouth bass love being on the move and chasing bait...

So it only makes sense that crankbaits in patterns resembling their favorite food like crawdads and baitfish can be highly effective when fishing for feeding smallies!

Take a moment and watch this short video to see what we mean…

Several things to remember…

• Select the right crankbait pattern to mimic the bait the smallies are feeding on
• Pick the type of diving bill to effectively fish the depths the fish are working
• Keep the bait in contact with cover to trigger more strikes
• Use the proper rod, reel and line combo for the crankbait being fished

Follow these tips and catch more smallmouths the next time you’re on the water chasing them!