Picking Lures for Inshore Fishing

1. Introduction

When selecting lures for inshore fishing, decisions can sometimes feel overwhelming—so many colors, styles, and actions to choose from. The best approach is to stick with options you know well. Unless you’re intentionally exploring new gear, limit yourself to a few basic lure types in a couple of reliable colors. This keeps your tackle box lean and your focus sharp.

2. My Go‑To Lures

2.1 Paddle‑Tail Soft Plastics

I typically bring two paddle‑tail soft plastics:

1. Natural color (e.g., DOA Arkansas Glow)
2. Bright color (e.g., Chartreuse)

Pair them with jig heads in contrasting colors—often red and chartreuse—to adapt to varying water clarity:

• Dark water → Darker lures
• Clear water → Lighter lures (white, pearl)

2.2 Hard Lures

• Topwater Skitter Walk: Ideal at dawn/dusk for surface‑feeding species.
• Subsurface Twitch Bait (MirrODine): Excels near drop‑offs and structure.

Again, choose colors you’re confident with and try to match local baitfish.

2.3 Crustacean Imitations

Bringing a shrimp or crab imitation is invaluable when fish switch to crustaceans:

• Fish may feed exclusively on shrimp or crabs in certain areas.
• Pick patterns you trust—natural tones for clear water, brighter/crab‑patterned hues in stained conditions.

3. Learning & Experimenting

Once you’ve located fish and learned their habits (for example, catching snook in a specific stretch), it’s the perfect time to test new lures. Experimenting builds confidence and can reveal unexpected favorites. Keep notes on retrieve speed, rod action, and lure color to refine your choices.

4. Keep It Simple

Avoid overloading your tackle box. Fish with one or two trusted lures all day, or dedicate a session purely to experimentation. Both approaches can be highly successful—confidence in your gear often translates directly to better fishing.

5. Quick Tips

• Stick to what you know. Master a few lures before expanding your arsenal.
• Match the hatch. Select colors and profiles that resemble local baitfish or crustaceans.
• Adapt to clarity. Darker lures for stained water, lighter for clear water.
• Experiment wisely. Test new lures once fish patterns are evident.
• Stay organized. A simple setup prevents confusion and speeds lure changes.