Bass Fishing with Lipless Crankbait

Image Credit: EuroTackle

Lipless crankbaits are one of the most dynamic lures in bass fishing. Without a diving lip, these baits rely on their tight, vibrating action and rattling sound to trigger reaction strikes. Their versatility and aggressive presentation make them a top choice for anglers in a variety of water conditions and cover types. This guide provides an extensive overview of why lipless crankbaits work, how to select and rig them, effective retrieve techniques, recommended gear, and expert tips from the bass fishing community.

Why Lipless Crankbaits Work

Lipless crankbaits are designed to:

• Produce Intense Vibration: Their flat, rigid body wobbles side-to-side when retrieved, creating both visual flash and acoustic disturbance that bass find irresistible.
• Cover a Range of Depths: Without a diving lip, these baits can be fished at various depths simply by adjusting your retrieve speed and rod angle.
• Trigger Reaction Strikes: The rattling sound (often enhanced by internal pellets or rattles) simulates the distress of injured baitfish, prompting aggressive strikes even from passive bass.
• Offer Versatility: They can be used in open water as well as near structure like weed beds, points, and docks.

Selecting Lipless Crankbaits

Colors, Sizes, and Brands

When choosing a lipless crankbait, consider:

• Colors:
  • Natural Patterns: Chrome, blue, and black backs mimic local baitfish in clear water.
  • Bright Patterns: Yellow, chartreuse, or red variations work well in stained or low-light conditions.
• Sizes:
  • Lightweight Models (1/4 to 1/2 oz): Ideal for finesse presentations and clear water.
  • Heavier Models (up to 1 oz): Better for murky water or when bass are feeding on larger forage.
• Popular Brands:
  • EuroTackle’s Z-Viber series (as referenced above) is well-regarded, along with other favorites like Rapala, Strike King, and Bomber.

How to Rig Lipless Crankbaits

Rigging a lipless crankbait correctly is crucial to ensure natural action and effective hooksets. Here are some common rigging methods:

1. Basic Rig:

   • Method: Tie on a treble hook (typically extra wide gap) so that the hook point is embedded into the lure’s body. The hook should be positioned to allow maximum vibration while remaining weedless.
   • Best For: Open water fishing where snagging is less of an issue.

2. Weedless Rig:

   • Method: For heavy cover (like grassy or woody areas), bury the hook further into the lure to minimize exposure. Some anglers remove the back hook entirely to reduce snagging.
   • Best For: Fishing near submerged vegetation or structure.

3. Modified Rig for Fast Retrieval:

   • Method: Use a slightly more exposed hook (Texpose style) to ensure quick hooksets when using aggressive retrieves. This is effective when bass are actively chasing the lure.
   • Best For: Situations where bass are highly reactive and aggressive.

Tip: Experiment with different rigging styles to see which provides the best natural action and minimizes snags in your specific fishing environment.

How to Fish Lipless Crankbaits

Retrieve Techniques

Lipless crankbaits can be fished using a variety of retrieves, including:

• Steady Retrieve:
  • Maintain a consistent pace to allow the bait to wobble naturally. Ideal for mimicking a steadily drifting baitfish.
• Stop-and-Go Retrieve:
  • Retrieve at a moderate pace then pause briefly. The sudden stop can simulate a dying baitfish and trigger reaction strikes.
• Yo-Yo Retrieve:
  • Let the bait sink completely, then quickly reel in the slack before letting it fall again. This creates a vertical “yo-yo” action that can be very effective in cold water.
• Twitch Retrieve:
  • Add intermittent rod tip twitches during a steady retrieve to introduce an erratic motion that can entice strikes from hesitant bass.

Recommended Gear

Effects of Line Type & Diameter on Lure Depth

The type and diameter of your line can impact the running depth and action of your lipless crankbait:

• Thinner Lines (e.g., 6-8 lb monofilament or fluorocarbon):
  • Effect: Minimal drag, allowing the lure to run naturally at the desired depth.
  • Example: A thin 6 lb fluorocarbon line enables the bait to sink deeper with a more natural, undisturbed action.
• Thicker/Braided Lines (e.g., 12-15 lb braid):
  • Effect: Increased drag and slight buoyancy can cause the lure to run shallower, affecting its action.
  • Example: Switching to a thicker braid may result in the bait running 1–2 feet higher than intended.

Example Chart: Line Diameter vs. Lure Depth

Note: Actual performance varies with water conditions, lure design, and retrieve speed.

YouTube Resource

For a visual demonstration and expert tips on lipless crankbait fishing, click the image below to search for "Fishing Lipless Crankbait tips" on YouTube:

Other Popular YouTube Search Terms for Lipless Crankbaits

Search Term	Link
Lipless Crankbait Techniques
Best Lipless Crankbaits for Bass
How to Rig a Lipless Crankbait
Lipless Crankbait Retrieve Tips

Community & Expert Tips

• Retrieve Adjustments: Vary your retrieve by mixing steady drifts, stop-and-go, and yo-yo techniques to see what the bass respond to.
• Match Local Forage: Choose colors and sizes that closely mimic the baitfish in your area. Natural hues work in clear water, while bright colors stand out in stained or murky conditions.
• Rigging Variations: In heavy cover, consider a fully weedless rig by burying the hook, whereas a more exposed hook (Texpose style) can yield faster hooksets in open water.
• Gear Optimization: Use a sensitive rod and the appropriate line type to ensure your lure runs at the intended depth. Adjust line diameter to control the drag and natural sinking of the bait.
• Local Insights: Engage with local fishing communities and forums for seasonal tips and regional advice on lipless crankbait techniques.
• Practice Makes Perfect: Experiment with different retrieves and rigging methods until you find the optimal presentation for your fishing conditions.