When it comes to fishing, using the right type of bait or lure is crucial to the success of your catch. Beginners often confuse fishing lures and fishing baits, using the terms interchangeably. But what is the actual difference between these two types of fishing gear? And which one should you use?
Fishing bait refers to any food or substance used to attract fish to your hook. This can include worms, maggots, minnows, shrimp, and other live or dead bait. Fishing baits are typically placed on the hook in their whole form or cut up into smaller pieces. They are meant to be smelled or tasted by the fish, encouraging them to bite and take the hook.
On the other hand, fishing lures are designed to imitate the look and movement of prey fish. They come in a wide range of styles, shapes, and colors – from crankbaits and spinners to surface poppers and jigs. Fishing lures are usually made of metal, plastic, or wood and come equipped with hooks, trebles or single. They are cast out into the water and moved through the water using various techniques, such as reeling in or jerking the rod, to mimic the motion of real fish.
While both fishing baits and lures can be effective ways to catch fish, each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Fishing baits tend to work well when fishing for certain types of species, such as catfish or panfish, which are attracted to the scent of natural baits. However, fishing baits can be messy and difficult to handle, as well as attract unwanted marine life, such as crabs or turtles.
Fishing lures, on the other hand, are great for catching predatory fish and can be easier to handle, especially when using artificial lures. Additionally, fishing lures can be more versatile than fishing baits since you can vary the fishing technique and retrieve, such as working the lure in a zig-zag motion or bouncing it along the bottom.
Ultimately, the choice between fishing baits and fishing lures comes down to your personal preference, the type of fish you are targeting, and the fishing environment you are in. Generally, if you are fishing in murky water or using species-specific natural baits can be an effective method. In clearer waters and if you prefer to switch up techniques, artificial lures may be the way to go.