Spring is here, and that means it’s time to get back on the water! As fish shake off their winter sluggishness and move to shallow waters, knowing what baits and lures to use can make all the difference. Whether you’re after walleye, crappie, bass, or northern pike, Tut’s Bait & Tackle has the gear and advice to help you land more fish this season.
Both live bait and artificial lures have their place in spring fishing. Live bait is often the go-to choice early in the season when fish are feeding on natural food sources, but artificial lures can trigger aggressive reaction strikes, especially as fish become more active.
Here’s what works best for each species this spring:
Walleye are one of Minnesota’s most sought-after fish, and in spring, they respond best to a jig and minnow combination. The slow, enticing movement of a live minnow on a jig head is hard for them to resist. If you prefer artificial lures, try paddle-tail swimbaits or jerkbaits in natural colors like perch or shiner patterns.
Spring crappie fishing is a blast, and the right bait makes all the difference. Try using small jigs (1/32 – 1/16 oz.) tipped with a crappie minnow or wax worm. Bright colors like pink, chartreuse, and white tend to work best in the warming waters of early spring.
As water temps rise, bass begin feeding aggressively. Suspending jerkbaits work well in early spring when bass are still a bit sluggish. As things warm up, Texas-rigged soft plastics or spinnerbaits can help trigger strikes in shallow waters near structure.
Pike are aggressive in spring, making them an exciting target. Large spoons, spinnerbaits, and live suckers are all solid choices. If using artificial lures, opt for bright colors like red, orange, and silver to grab their attention.
With the right bait and tackle, your next fishing trip could be your best yet. Stop by Tut’s Bait & Tackle for expert advice, high-quality gear, and everything you need to make this spring fishing season one to remember.
