What’s In Your Tackle Box: Hardbait Edition
What Are Hardbaits?
Hardbaits are the backbone of many Canadian anglers’ tackle boxes. Unlike soft plastics, hardbaits are made from durable materials like wood, plastic, or composite blends. They’re engineered to mimic the look, sound, and movement of baitfish or other prey, triggering predatory instincts in fish. From the classic wobble of a crankbait to the darting action of a jerkbait, these lures are designed to provoke strikes under a wide range of conditions.
Types of Hardbaits
- Crankbaits: Known for their wobbling action and ability to dive to various depths.
- Jerkbaits: Feature a slender profile and erratic, darting movement when twitched.
- Topwater Plugs: Float on the surface and create commotion to draw explosive strikes.
- Lipless Crankbaits: Sink and vibrate, great for covering water quickly.
- Swimbaits: Realistic swimming action, often used for trophy fish.
When and Where to Use Hardbaits
Open Water
Hardbaits are at their best in open water, particularly during the spring and fall. As water temperatures change, predator fish like pike and walleye become more aggressive and roam in search of food. Casting or trolling crankbaits along weedlines, drop-offs, and points can help you cover lots of water and locate active fish.
Structure Fishing
Fish love structure—rocks, timber, docks, and submerged vegetation are all prime spots. Jerkbaits and deep-diving plugs excel here, letting you target fish holding tight to cover. The erratic movement of these baits can trigger even the most cautious fish to strike.
Topwater Action
There’s nothing quite like the adrenaline rush of a topwater hit. Early mornings and late evenings, when the water is calm, are ideal for surface plugs. Bass, pike, and even muskie can’t resist the commotion of a well-worked topwater lure.
Trolling
Trolling hardbaits behind a boat is a time-tested method for covering large areas, especially for lake trout and walleye. Adjust your speed and depth to match fish activity and water conditions.
What Can You Catch With Hardbaits?
- Northern Pike: These apex predators love big, flashy presentations. Large crankbaits and jerkbaits in bright colors or with lots of flash are ideal. Shallow bays and weedy flats in spring and early summer are prime pike territory.
- Walleye: Walleye tend to prefer more subtle, natural colors. Smaller crankbaits and shad-style hardbaits along rocky points, mid-lake humps, and drop-offs are highly effective.
- Smallmouth & Largemouth Bass: Bass are opportunistic feeders. Use topwater plugs and shallow-running crankbaits near submerged logs, rocks, or weed beds for best results.
- Lake Trout: Deep-diving hardbaits trolled near steep drop-offs or deep points can be deadly for lakers, especially in the summer.
Fun Fact: Record-Setting Catches
Largest Northern Pike Ever Caught
The largest northern pike on record was caught in Lake Greffern, Germany, in 1986. This monster measured an incredible 58 inches (147 cm) and weighed a whopping 55 pounds, 1 ounce (25 kg). While Canadian waters are famous for producing trophy pike, this European giant still holds the world record!
Largest Walleye Ever Caught
The world record walleye was caught in 1960 by Mabry Harper in Old Hickory Lake, Tennessee, USA. It weighed 25 pounds (11.34 kg) and measured 41 inches (104 cm) long. Canada regularly produces walleye over 10 pounds, and many anglers dream of landing that elusive double-digit fish on a hardbait.
Pro Tips for Hardbait Success
- Match the Hatch: Choose lure size and color to mimic local baitfish. In clear water, go natural; in stained or murky water, try brighter colors.
- Vary Your Retrieve: Sometimes a slow, steady retrieve works best; other times, erratic twitches and pauses will trigger more strikes.
- Check Your Hooks: Hardbaits often come with quality hooks, but swapping for premium, ultra-sharp trebles can make a difference, especially with big fish.
- Use a Leader: For toothy pike or muskie, always use a wire or heavy fluorocarbon leader to prevent bite-offs.
Our Favourite Canadian Hardbaits: Featuring Dem Lures
At Frozen North Outdoor Supply, we’re proud to support Canadian innovation. Dem Lures stands out for their craftsmanship and relentless attention to detail. Their hardbaits are built to withstand tough northern conditions and have proven themselves on countless Canadian lakes and rivers. Whether you’re after pike, walleye, or bass, Dem Lures offers options that consistently deliver results. Check them out on our website and see why they’re a favourite among local anglers.
Final Thoughts: Why Hardbaits Belong in Your Tackle Box
Building a versatile tackle box isn’t just about quantity—it’s about having the right lures for the right situation. Hardbaits offer unmatched versatility, durability, and the ability to cover water efficiently. They’re the go-to choice for many trophy catches, and with the right selection, you’ll be ready for whatever the Canadian wilderness throws at you.
Next time you’re on the water, don’t forget to pack your favourite hardbaits and give Dem Lures a cast. Who knows? You might just break a record of your own.