by Robert Feuring

What is a fishing lure?

A fishing lure is an object that is attached to the end of a fishing line. Its purpose, as the name suggests, is to lure fish through a combination of movement, vibrations and color. Fish get attracted to the lure and attack it, in the process fall prey to the hook on which the lure is set.

How does it work?

Fishing lures are widely used with fishing tackle. The lure is attached to the fishing line with a knot. It is first cast out into the water and then slowly retrieved. The process of retrieval makes it appear as if the lure is alive and swimming. This grabs the attention of any fish that are nearby.

History of fishing lures

Fishing lures can be dated back to ancient civilizations, where fish hooks carved out of bone and molded out of bronze have been discovered. In fact, archaeological sites in China and Egypt have revealed fishing rods, hooks, and lines. In the early nineteenth century, the making of tackles and lures was no longer an individual craftsman's job, but something of interest to commercial manufacturers. Over the years, this craft considerably advanced, and post WWII, much more technical advancement was seen in fishing lines and fishing lures. Soon, fishing was both a hobby and a sport, enjoyed by those who could afford it.

How many types of lures are there?

Fishing lures are available in a myriad variety of sizes, colors, and types. The lures behave differently in the water depending on the kind of fish that they are designed to catch. The most common types are jigs, spoons, plastic bait, plugs, spinners, spinnerbait, poppers, and flies.

Materials used for fishing lures

Fishing lures can be made of metal, wood, cork, and plastic, depending on the type of lure. Lure-makers seldom make an entire lure; they specialize in a particular part of the lure. Manufacturers as well as hobbyists need to then assemble the lure after collecting all the required parts. Metal could be used to make hooks, wire, beads, blades, ball bearings, rings, loops, and spacers. Wood and cork are often used to make plugs. Plastic is equally popular and is used to make plastic bait; in fact, almost all lures are dressed up with plastic attractions.

How to use a lure?
A skilled angler will tell you that it's not so much about the lure (apart from using the right one for the right kind of fishing), but more about how you work the line. When a lure is used for fishing, it is necessary to continuously cast out and retrieve the line. This ensures that the lure moves in the water, giving the appearance of a moving fish or insect. The lure will be completely ineffective if it not made to move in the water.

For more information on fishing lures as well as on the latest and widest range of methods for attracting and catching fish, make sure to visit http://www.seaisletackle.com.

About the Author

Fishing Lures Sea Isle Tackle has been proudly serving the saltwater fishing community for over 45 years. Since opening day in 1962, we have dedicated ourself to providing the finest fishing tackle and Shimano Reels the industry has to offer. Sea Isle Tackle has a great selection of Fishing Lures.