Wade Bourne: Fishing lures are tools, and different lures are meant to fulfill different jobs. Judging by the size of some anglers’ tackle boxes, they have a lot of jobs, because their boxes are stuffed with lures of every design, size and color. The truth is, however, consistent fishing can be enjoyed by anglers who own just a few basic lures. Here are three proven artificial baits that belong in every tackle box and that will tempt a broad array of game- and panfish.



In-line spinner: The flash and vibration from an in-line spinner are tempting to virtually all fish that feed on minnows. This lure is especially good in current, but it will also produce in still water. Just cast and retrieve so you can feel the blade turning around the spinner’s body.

Slider worm: This 4-inch plastic worm was popularized by fishing pioneer Charlie Brewer of Tennessee. Charlie fished his Slider worms with a “do-nothing” approach, which is a very subtle gliding action. A Slider gets bites both when bass are aggressive and when they’re pouting.

Rapala 2 ½-inch Shallow Shad Rap: This small minnow imitation floats when inactive, and it dives a few inches under the water and wiggles realistically during a retrieve. Its combination of look, size and action make it a regular target of bass, walleye, bream, white bass and other species.

So, anglers whose tackle boxes don’t have these lures should add them to their collection. An in-line spinner, Slider worm and Shallow Shad Rap are proven winners, and they will provide action and joy to fishermen who use them.

 

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