How do twitch baits compare to top water lures for shark fishing?
Here’s a comparison of twitch baits and topwater lures for shark fishing:
Topwater Lures
- Best used early in the morning or just before sunset
- Work well in 1-4 feet of water
- Cordell pencil popper is mentioned as a favorite
- Can be exciting to see sharks attack the lure on the surface
- Most effective in water temperatures at or above 60°F
- Great for targeting sharks in shallow water, especially from January to March in certain areas
Twitch Baits
- Effective in 1-4 feet of water, especially on flats
- Can be particularly effective at night when worked slowly
- MirrOlure’s MirrOdine is mentioned as one of the best options
- Rapala XRap 14 in ghost color is recommended for night fishing
- Work well in water temperatures between 50-60°F
- Can be effective when topwater lures are less productive in cooler water
Key Differences
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Water depth: Both lure types work well in shallow water (1-4 feet), but twitch baits can be more versatile in slightly deeper water.
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Time of day: Topwater lures are often best early morning or evening, while twitch baits can be effective throughout the day and especially at night.
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Water temperature: Topwater lures tend to be more effective in warmer water (60°F+), while twitch baits can work well in cooler temperatures (50-60°F).
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Presentation: Topwater lures create surface disturbance, while twitch baits work just below the surface or can be allowed to sink slightly.
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Visibility: Topwater strikes are visually exciting, as you can see the shark attack the lure. Twitch bait strikes occur below the surface.
When choosing between topwater lures and twitch baits for shark fishing, consider factors such as water temperature, time of day, and the specific conditions you’re fishing in. Both lure types can be effective, and it’s often beneficial to have both options available to adapt to changing conditions or shark behavior.
Citations:
[1] https://www.texassaltwaterfishingmagazine.com/fishing/features/kevin-cochran/winter-topwater-and-twitchbait-benchmarks
[2] https://fishingbooker.com/blog/saltwater-lures/
[3] https://www.texassaltwaterfishingmagazine.com/fishing/features/steve-hillman/fun-with-twitchbaits-
[4] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e7JoTO1v0c4
[5] https://www.reelsandtackle.com/articles–blog/catching-shark-on-artificial-lures
[6] https://www.talkseafishing.co.uk/articles/getting-started-with-shark-fishing.1492/
[7] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zZ1j8yXDXmU
[8] https://campingaustralia.com.au/blogs/expert-advice/fishy-facts-lures-vs-bait
