If you’re into saltwater fishing, especially along the East Coast of the United States, you probably have experienced bluefish. These aggressive, hard-fighting fish are a favorite among kayakers. Getting bluefish to bite isn’t always easy. That’s where having the right lures in your tackle box can make all the difference.
1. Diamond Jigs
Diamond jigs are a classic choice for bluefish fishing. These shiny, metallic lures with their diamond-shaped bodies and treble hooks are irresistible to bluefish. They work well when casting or jigging, making them versatile for various fishing conditions. Whether you’re fishing from a pier, jetty, or boat, having a few diamond jigs in your arsenal is a must.
2. Bucktail Jigs
Another tried and tested lure for bluefish is the bucktail jig. These lures mimic the appearance of baitfish, making them incredibly effective at attracting hungry blues. They come in various sizes and colors, allowing you to match the hatch or experiment with different presentations. Bucktail jigs can be jigged vertically or cast and retrieved, making them suitable for different fishing techniques.
3. Metal Spoons
Metal spoons are go-to lures for many saltwater anglers targeting bluefish. Their flashy, erratic action mimics injured baitfish, triggering aggressive strikes from bluefish patrolling the waters. Silver, gold, or chrome spoons are all effective choices, and they work well when retrieved at different speeds. Whether you’re fishing from shore or trolling offshore, metal spoons are sure to entice bluefish into biting.
4. Topwater Plugs
Few things get an angler’s heart racing like seeing a bluefish explode on a topwater plug. These surface lures create a commotion that mimics fleeing baitfish, drawing strikes from hungry predators below. Popper-style plugs with a cupped face create splashes and chugs that drive bluefish wild. Whether you prefer walk-the-dog action or a more aggressive popping retrieve, topwater plugs can produce heart-stopping strikes that will keep you coming back for more.
5. Soft Plastic Swimbaits
Soft plastic swimbaits are excellent lures for targeting bluefish in a variety of situations. Their lifelike swimming action and realistic appearance make them irresistible to hungry blues. Rig them on a jighead for casting and retrieving or use them as trailers on bucktail jigs or spoons. Their versatility and effectiveness make soft plastic swimbaits a staple in any bluefish angler’s tackle box.
6. Trolling Squid Rigs
When bluefish are schooling offshore, trolling squid rigs can be incredibly productive. These rigs consist of a series of squid-like soft plastic lures rigged on a wire or monofilament leader. When trolled behind a boat at varying speeds, they imitate a school of baitfish, enticing bluefish to strike. Trolling squid rigs allows you to cover a lot of water, increasing your chances of encountering feeding bluefish.
7. Metal Lip Diving Plugs
Metal lip diving plugs, also known as swimming plugs or swimmers, are effective lures for targeting bluefish in deeper waters or when they’re holding in strong currents. These lures feature a metal lip on the front that causes them to dive and swim with a realistic motion when retrieved. Their ability to dive to different depths and their durable construction make them ideal for battling aggressive bluefish in challenging conditions.
8. Casting Spoons
Casting spoons are similar to metal spoons but are designed specifically for long-distance casting. Their aerodynamic shape allows them to be cast far from shore or a boat, reaching areas where bluefish might be holding. Once retrieved, their flashy design and wobbling action make them irresistible to bluefish. Whether you’re fishing from the beach, a jetty, or a boat, casting spoons can help you cover more water and locate feeding bluefish.
9. Jerkbaits
Jerkbaits are slender, minnow-shaped lures that can be incredibly effective for targeting bluefish, especially when they’re feeding on smaller baitfish. These lures feature a realistic profile and a suspending or floating action, allowing you to work them at various depths. Twitching and jerking the rod tip during the retrieve imitates the erratic movement of injured baitfish, triggering aggressive strikes from bluefish. Jerkbaits excel in clear water or when bluefish are finicky and wary of larger lures.
10. Tube Lures
Finally, tube lures are a versatile option for bluefish fishing, particularly in shallow water or around structures. These soft plastic lures feature a hollow body that can be rigged with a weighted jighead or a weedless hook. Their squid-like appearance and undulating action make them irresistible to bluefish. Whether you’re fishing in estuaries, flats, or rocky shorelines, tube lures can be deadly when presented properly.
Having the right lures can make all the difference when targeting bluefish. Whether you prefer casting, jigging, trolling, or topwater fishing, there’s a lure on this list to suit your preferred style and fishing conditions. Experiment with different lures, colors, and presentations to dial in what works best in your local waters. With the right combination of skill and the right lure, you’ll be reeling in trophy bluefish in no time.
