10 Best Smallmouth Bass Lures 2025 in the United States

The Berkley Frittside Fishing Lure 3-Pack in Shad Assortment is a solid choice for anglers targeting smallmouth bass. This crankbait lure is known for its classic flat side profile that mimics various species and generates a strong flash to attract fish. One of its standout features is the tight, balsa-like thumping action, which is particularly effective in tough conditions when fish are less active or under heavy pressure.

Each lure in the pack measures 2.25 inches, weighs 1/3 oz, and is designed to swim at depths between 2 to 5 feet, making it versatile for different fishing scenarios. The sharp Fusion19 hooks ensure strong penetration and holding power, which is crucial during intense catches. The shad assortment colors are also a plus, as they are known to be effective in attracting smallmouth bass.

It should be noted that the lure may not perform as well in deeper waters beyond the 5-foot range. Additionally, it might be less appealing to those who prefer other types of lures, such as soft plastics or jigs. This product would be most beneficial for anglers looking for a reliable and versatile crankbait for shallow to mid-depth fishing.

The Strike King Red Eye Shad is a lipless crankbait designed to attract smallmouth bass and other gamefish with its realistic Natural Shad color and lifelike 3D eyes. Weighing 3/8 oz, it’s a medium-sized lure that sinks and offers a versatile action thanks to its free-floating internal rattles. These rattles create sound to draw fish from a distance, making it effective in various seasons and water conditions.

The lure’s design allows it to be worked in multiple ways, such as ripping near grass edges in spring or jigging in cooler months, which adds to its adaptability for different fishing situations. The premium size 4 treble hooks are sharp and strong, helping to secure fish once hooked. Made from metal, it’s durable enough for regular use. Some anglers appreciate its consistent performance on the pro tour and the confidence it inspires during fishing trips. However, because it’s a lipless crankbait, it may require some experience to master the retrieval techniques that trigger its best action. Also, it doesn’t come with a warranty, so careful handling is advised.

This lure is well-suited for anglers looking for a dependable, all-season option that imitates natural baitfish well and performs effectively across a range of smallmouth bass habitats.

The Gary Yamamoto 9-10-196 Senko, 5-Inch, 10-Pack in Pumpkin Black Green Flake is a well-regarded option for anglers targeting smallmouth bass. Known for its quality and versatility, this soft stick bait can be used in various fishing techniques such as weightless, wacky-style, Texas or Carolina rig, making it a flexible choice for different conditions.

Its 5-inch size is suitable for attracting smallmouth bass, and the specific color combination of pumpkin with black and green flake is designed to be appealing to this species of fish. The lure's action is a key feature; the soft plastic body, impregnated with a large amount of salt, creates a unique fall rate that can drive fish to bite.

This bait is often noted for its simplicity and effectiveness, making it accessible even for less experienced anglers. However, it is important to note that the lure's soft material, while effective, can sometimes be less durable compared to harder plastics, requiring more frequent replacements. Additionally, this lure is highly popular, which might mean it is often imitated but not always matched in quality by other brands. For those looking for a reliable and versatile option to catch smallmouth bass, the Gary Yamamoto Senko is a strong contender, though anglers should be prepared for the potential need to replace the lures more often due to wear and tear.