How to Tune Your Crankbaits

If you are a fishing enthusiast, you know the importance of mastering the use of your many lures. For bass fishing, crankbaits are arguably the most popular lure of all, so making sure they are running in top form is important if you want to catch anything for your next fish fry. Here, you can get an idea of how to tune your crankbaits.

1. First: Checking the crankbait to see if it needs tuning

   Whether you are casting your crankbait for the first time or have already used it but are noticing a difference in performance, you may very well have to tune it. If the line is tugging to one side or another, begin by inspecting each hook hanger. From there, look to see if the tail or belly hanger is bent, and if so, make sure to straighten them out. Next examine the split ring; if it is broken, bent or jammed, you need to replace it. Finally, it is time to test the crankbait again to see if the problem is solved.

2. Second: Checking for additional issues

   If, after you make these adjustments, you find that the bait is still pulling to one side, you need to bend the line tie eye to the side it is running to. Use a pair of needle-nose pliers for this task, making gradual adjustments, since it usually only takes a small amount of force to correct the issue. Again, after these adjustments, give the lure a test run to see if any other fixes are needed.