Lure Fishing Guide

Introduction to Lure Fishing

Lure fishing is an active and mobile method of angling. The angler uses artificial baits to search out predators, imitating fish, insects, or other prey. Unlike static bait fishing, lure fishing rewards movement, experimentation, and observation. 

Benefits 

• Active and engaging.
• Minimal equipment required.
• Effective across rivers, lakes, canals, and coastal waters.
• Catches a wide variety of species.

Target Species

Our waters hold a range of lure-hungry predators: 

• Pike – Requires strong tackle and wire traces.
• Perch – Aggressive, great on light gear.
• Zander – Prefers deeper, murky water; subtle presentations work best.
• Chub – Opportunists, often take crankbaits and surface lures.
• Sea Bass – Prime saltwater target, fights hard.
• Pollack & Wrasse – Common on lures from rocky sea marks.

We have included fish that are either sea species or not in our waters to give a better view into some of the species that can be caught around the UK.

Tackle Recommendations

Rods 

• Light (1–10g): Perch, trout, finesse work.
• Medium (10–30g): General all-round lure fishing.
• Heavy (30g+): Pike, bass, and saltwater species.

Reels
 

• Spinning reels (1000–4000 size) – simple, effective.
• Baitcasting reels – better for heavier lures and accuracy.

Line
 

• Braid (15–25lb) – strength and bite detection.
• Fluorocarbon leaders (6–20lb) – near invisible.
• Wire leaders – minimum 18 inches long and 25lb,mandatory for pike.

Lure Categories

•  Soft Plastics – Shads, worms, creatures. Versatile and realistic.
• Crankbaits/Plugs – Floating, diving, suspending. Cover water quickly.
• Spinners & Spinnerbaits – Flash and vibration in coloured water.
• Jigs – Bottom-orientated, excellent for zander and perch.
• Topwater Lures – Surface takes for summer fishing.
• Metal Lures – Spoons and metals, ideal for distance casting.

Techniques

•  Straight Retrieve – Simple, steady winding; lets the lure work naturally.
• Twitch & Pause – Rod tip movements create erratic action.
• Lift & Drop – Especially effective with soft plastics and jigs.
• Walk the Dog – Side-to-side surface action for topwater lures.
• Burn & Kill – Fast retrieve then sudden stop to trigger strikes.

Follow the link below for a great video on lure fishing and techniques.

Seasonal Advice

• Spring – Fish are hungry post-spawn; lures that cover water quickly work well.
• Summer – Topwater and fast retrieves shine in warm water.
• Autumn – Predators feed hard; larger lures and natural baitfish colours excel.
• Winter – Slow presentations, vertical jigging, and subtle retrieves are best.

Watercraft

• Look for structure: weed beds, snags, drop-offs, bridges, rocky marks.
• Fish often hold near features: overhangs, islands, pontoons, tide rips.
• Consider light levels: dawn, dusk, and overcast conditions are prime.
• In saltwater, watch the tide: moving water encourages feeding.

See link below to a brilliant video explaining what to look for. Remember to like and follow the channel for more videos as they're released.

Club Rules & Best Practice

1. Wire traces are compulsory when targeting pike, must be a minimum of 18 inches and 15 lb.
2. Barbless or crushed-barb hooks only on club waters.
3. Unhooking mats must be used for larger fish.
4. Long-nose pliers/forceps must be carried.
5. Catch & release is expected for all fish including predator fish unless stated otherwise.
6. Members must show respect for wildlife, fellow anglers, and landowners.
7. Lifejackets are strongly recommended when fishing from boats (only on waters that allow this style of fishing).

Conservation & Etiquette

• Avoid disturbing spawning fish.
• Keep fish handling to a minimum.
• Take all litter home.
• Share bank space fairly; no crowding other anglers.
• Report any pollution or illegal activity to the club.

Click the link below to report pollution.

Tips From The Club

• Keep a small selection of proven lures – don’t overcomplicate.
• Fish confidently; predators often strike when least expected.
• Record catches, conditions, and lure types to build your own patterns.
• Don’t be afraid to keep moving – lure fishing is about finding fish.