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A hardbait is an artificial lure made of wood or plastic that imitates real prey fish. It is designed to tempt predatory fish, such as pike, perch, zander and catfish, to bite. Many hardbaits mimic the movements of an injured or disoriented real fish, signalling to predatory fish that it is easy prey. Non-predatory fish are usually not interested in hardbaits. However, some species, such as chub, become omnivorous once they reach a certain size and will then also attack artificial lures.
Lures Jerkbaits Crankbaits günstig
Lures: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What can you catch with a hardbait?
With a hardbait, you can catch any predatory fish found in our waters, such as zander, perch, pike, asp and catfish, as seen in the Rhine near Düsseldorf, for example. However, even non-predatory fish such as barbel, chub and large roach will attack small hardbaits in shallow water.
How do you work a hardbait correctly?
The simplest method is to retrieve steadily, taking regular pauses, as bites often occur when you stop. You can provoke sideways dashes by giving short jerks with the rod tip, which further excites the predatory fish. For surface lures, the 'walk-the-dog' technique is ideal: hold the rod tip down and flick it towards the water's surface with every turn of the reel so the hardbait zigzags across it.
Which hardbaits are best for zander?
Traditionally, slim, elongated, minnow-shaped hardbaits are used. Proven models include the Illex Arnaud, the Hybrida Zanderkönig and the Lucky Craft Pointer. However, as zander also feed on prey fish with high backs, such as bream, it is worth trying other hardbait shapes as well. On the Rhine, zander often hunt at night in shallow, stony areas, so shallow-running hardbaits are ideal from dusk through the night.
Which hardbaits are best suited for beginners to spin fishing?
The best options are hardbaits that produce an attractive action when retrieved. The Salmo Slider, for example, automatically moves from side to side, while the Whopper Plopper does all the work on the surface. Other ideal options for beginners are crankbaits such as the Illex Chubby or the Salmo Hornet, which reliably catch various species of predatory fish, particularly perch.
Which brands offer durable crankbaits for pike fishing?
Japanese manufacturers such as Lucky Craft and Illex are renowned for their high-quality craftsmanship, which can withstand pike attacks. In Europe, Salmo from Poland and Hybrida from Germany also produce very durable crankbaits. When fishing for pike with crankbaits, it is essential to use a bite-resistant steel or titanium leader to prevent bite-offs.
