10 Best Smallmouth Bass Lures 2026 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 Berkley PowerBait CullShad Fishing Bait is a soft swimbait designed for smallmouth bass and other species like Northern Pike and Walleye. At 6 inches in length and weighing 1 1/5 ounces, it offers a substantial profile that is appealing for targeting larger fish. The Ghost Morning Dawn color is visually striking and effective in various water conditions. Its Honey Comb Technology enhances durability without compromising the realistic swimming action, which is a significant advantage.

The bait's variable retrieve speed allows it to perform well at different speeds without losing its effectiveness, making it versatile for different fishing styles and conditions. The smart weighting system provides flexibility for depth control, enabling anglers to add weights easily for deeper water fishing. This is particularly useful when trying to maintain the bait at a desired depth. Additionally, the hook clip retention system minimizes snags and ensures better hook-ups, which can improve catch rates.

On the downside, its larger profile may not be as suitable for smaller fish or in waters where the fish tend to be more skittish. Also, while the bait is durable, it is still made of soft plastic, which might not withstand very aggressive bites over time. It is a well-regarded choice among anglers, best suited for those who are specifically targeting larger fish and are comfortable managing a larger, more complex bait setup.

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.