Fishing is both an art and a science today. Advances in materials science have improved all types of fishing gear. More knowledge about fish behavior and environments has made a difference in a relaxing day on the water or pleasure combined with a big haul.
Even with this knowledge, there is still an art to fishing. One key area of this art is the creation and use of lures.
Anyone who visits a sporting goods store can easily see that lures look like art. Beneath the glass counter dozens of colorful designs are displayed. However this art has a purpose informed by long experience and ample science.
Here are a few examples of that combination.
Jigs 
Jigs come in a number of styles, but all have weighted metal heads and a feathered tail. The tail can be made from real bird feathers or animal hair. Synthetic materials used range from soft plastic to rubber. Jigs have wide application, because they are useful for catching nearly any freshwater fish.
Plugs  
Plugs are made of buoyant material that allows them to float on the surface or at a selected depth close to the water’s surface. The former are called ‘topwater’ or ‘floating’ plugs, while the latter are known as ‘diving’ plugs. Plugs are made of wood, plastic or synthetic rubber.
Poppers 
Poppers and flies are used for catching panfish, trout, bass and other species that feed off insects on the surface of the water. They are designed to be cast so they splash onto the water, attracting surface feeders.
Spinners  
Spinners are among the cleverest type of lures. Fish have varying visual acuity. Some see well but others only perceive vague shapes. However, they all respond to motion, especially motion that mimics movements made by their prey. Spinners take advantage of this by using blades that rotate around a central shaft.
To add to the lure’s attraction, some have skirts made of animal hair or synthetic materials such as vinyl or rubber. Others have simple tails made of soft plastic or hair.
Kona Heads 
Kona heads, or sliced lures, are long cylinders that look a bit like a miniature squid. They produce surface breaks and a bubble trail that attracts fish. They come in many colors and sizes, and make great trollers. Dragging along behind a boat at a few knots, you are certain to be followed.
Jet Heads 
Jet heads are made of metal and are heavier than most lures. Their long, colorful, string like tails produce bubble trails. This makes them very effective at attracting a variety of fish. They are designed to be trolled at higher speeds of up to 15 knots.
Cup-Faced 
Cup-Faced lures look like small fish heads. They are designed to troll between seven and ten knots. The head of this lure scoops up surface water, making it handy for windy conditions.
There are hundreds of artistic variations within even these categories. Miniature sculptures with a practical purpose; these small works of art supplement the greater art: the angler’s skill.
Fishing Facts |
