Favorite Crankbaits of the Pros
In the world of professional bass fishing, success is not just about skill and strategy; it’s also about having the right gear in your tackle box. Among the arsenal of lures, one category stands out as a staple in the toolbox of the pros: crankbaits. Crankbaits are known for their ability to imitate baitfish and trigger strikes from big bass and other fish. While there are countless crankbaits on the market, we’ll delve into the preferences of six pros, shedding light on their favorite crankbaits that have helped them secure championships and make their mark in the sport.
The Rapala DT Series crankbait is a top favorite among many experts, appreciated for their lifelike action and proven track record in delivering results. However, the nuances of their selections reveal the intricacies of professional bass fishing. Three of these seasoned anglers trust the Strike King S6XD Promodel Crankbait to lure in fish, while two state their favorite as the Spro Little John and the Rebel Wee R. Join us as we explore the choices of these pro anglers, as we find out what makes these crankbait their favorite and helped them succeed in the competitive world of fishing.
Kevin VanDam
Kevin VanDam is one of the most successful professional bass anglers in history. He has won multiple Bassmaster Classic titles and has a strong presence in the fishing community. Kevin VanDam has a few favorite fishing lures and techniques that he’s known for using. His lure selection can change depending on the conditions and the type of fish he’s targeting. It’s important to note that the choice of lures can vary based on the specific fishing conditions, the time of year, the location, and the behavior of the fish. Kevin VanDam’s success in professional bass fishing is partly due to his ability to adapt and choose the right lures and techniques for the situation at hand.
Kevin VanDam Favorite Crankbaits
Among his favorites are the Strike King KVD Square Bill Crankbait and the KVD 1.5 Square Bill. These lures are signature series developed in collaboration with VanDam himself, perfectly suited for targeting bass in shallow water and around heavy cover. Their design and action make them effective tools in his pursuit of big bass. VanDam’s mastery of crankbaits extends beyond his own signature series, as he’s also been known to rely on offerings like the Lucky Craft Fat CB BDS series and Rapala DT series, each chosen for its unique abilities to reach different depths and mimic the prey fish that bass are keen on. Kevin VanDam’s dedication to innovation and his knack for choosing the right crankbaits for the situation have solidified his status as a true legend in the world of bass fishing.
Strike King KVD Square Bill Crankbait
Strike King S6XD Promodel Crankbait
Lucky Craft Fat CB BDS Series Crankbait
Rapala DT Series
Mike Iaconelli
Mike Iaconelli is a highly regarded and charismatic figure in the world of professional bass fishing. Born on June 17, 1972, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Iaconelli has established himself as a prominent angler with an impressive list of achievements in the sport. Known for his passionate and animated approach to fishing, he has earned a reputation as one of the most engaging and entertaining personalities in the industry. Mike’s professional career includes numerous tournament victories, including a memorable win at the 2003 Bassmaster Classic, which is one of the most prestigious events in competitive bass fishing. He is a versatile angler, skilled in various techniques, and his dedication to the sport has earned him a dedicated fan base. Beyond his competitive success, Mike Iaconelli has also contributed to the fishing community through his television shows, books, and seminars, where he shares his extensive knowledge and enthusiasm for the sport.
Mike Iaconelli Favorite Crankbaits
Mike Iaconelli, a renowned professional bass angler, has a well-documented affinity for a variety of crankbaits that have consistently proven effective in his fishing endeavors. Among his favorite choices are the Rapala DT Series crankbaits, notably the DT6 and DT10 models, which offer precision in targeting specific depths. He has also expressed a fondness for the Berkley Digger, a versatile lure available in different sizes and colors. The Molix Lover crankbait is another standout in his arsenal, known for its unique action that entices bass. Additionally, Mike has collaborated with Rapala to create his own custom-colored DT series crankbaits known as “Ike’s Custom Ink DT,” designed to meet his exacting preferences. The Spro Little John crankbait rounds out his list of favorites, appreciated for its versatility in various fishing conditions. Mike’s crankbait choices exemplify his dedication to the sport and his ongoing pursuit of effective tackle options to enhance his angling success.
Rapala DT Series
Berkley Digger
Molix Lover
Spro Little John
Scott Martin
Scott Martin is a prominent figure in the world of professional fishing, known for his impressive achievements and contributions to the sport. Hailing from Clewiston, Florida, Martin is a seasoned angler who has made a name for himself in the competitive fishing scene. With numerous tournament wins and accolades to his name, including the 2011 FLW Tour Angler of the Year title, Martin has solidified his status as one of the best anglers in the business. His charismatic and informative approach to fishing has also made him a popular figure on YouTube, where he shares tips, techniques, and his passion for the sport with a dedicated following. Scott Martin’s remarkable success and unwavering dedication have earned him a special place in the hearts of fishing enthusiasts worldwide.
Scott Martin Favorite Crankbaits
One of his top choices is the Strike King 6XD, a deep-diving crankbait that excels in targeting bass in deeper waters. Martin also favors the Rapala DT-6, known for its erratic action that entices strikes from a variety of fish species. Additionally, he often reaches for the Lucky Craft LC 1.5 when looking to cover shallow water quickly, thanks to its versatility and proven ability to trigger aggressive strikes from fish.
Strike King S6XD Promodel Crankbait
Rapala DT Series
Lucky Craft LC Series
Ott DeFoe
Ott DeFoe is a highly accomplished professional bass angler known for his exceptional skills in competitive fishing. Born on February 17, 1985, in Knoxville, Tennessee, DeFoe has built a stellar career in the sport. He made his mark on the fishing scene with numerous tournament wins and accolades, including the 2019 Bassmaster Classic Championship, which is considered one of the most prestigious titles in the bass fishing world. DeFoe’s dedication to his craft and his innovative fishing techniques have earned him a reputation as one of the most consistent and versatile anglers in the industry. His commitment to sharing his knowledge and passion for fishing has also made him a respected figure in the fishing community. Ott DeFoe’s career is a testament to his unwavering pursuit of excellence in the world of professional bass angling, and he continues to inspire and educate fellow anglers through his accomplishments and contributions to the sport.
Ott DeFoe Favorite Crankbaits
Ott DeFoe has a strong affinity for several crankbaits that have consistently yielded success in his fishing endeavors. Among his favorites are the Rapala DT Series Crankbaits, prized for their precision in reaching specific depths. DeFoe also trusts the SPRO Little John crankbait, known for its ability to entice bass strikes, and the Strike King 6XD, a deep-diving lure that has proven effective in various tournaments. These crankbaits reflect Ott DeFoe’s commitment to using the best tools in his pursuit of trophy bass.
Rapala DT Series
Spro Little John
Strike King S6XD Promodel Crankbait
Bill Dance
Bill Dance is a legendary figure in the world of professional angling, celebrated for his remarkable accomplishments and contributions to the sport. With a career spanning several decades, Dance has achieved enduring fame as a television personality, author, and angling educator. His television show, “Bill Dance Outdoors,” has captivated audiences worldwide, providing valuable insights into fishing techniques, strategies, and the great outdoors. His numerous accolades, including induction into the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame and the International Game Fish Association Hall of Fame, solidify his status as an iconic figure in the world of angling. Bill Dance’s unwavering dedication to the sport and his commitment to sharing his expertise have left an indelible mark on the angling community.
Bill Dance Favorite Crankbaits
Bill Dance, a respected angler, has a deep appreciation for a few favorite crankbaits in his tackle collection. Among his top choices is the Bomber Fat A Crankbait, renowned for its versatility and ability to dive to the desired depths to trigger strikes from a wide range of gamefish. Additionally, he has a special affinity for the Bill Dance Fat Free Shad, a collaborative effort with Strike King, designed to replicate the appearance and movement of shad, a popular forage fish. To explore deeper waters, Bill Dance often relies on the Mann’s 20+ Crankbait, allowing him to reach depths of 20 feet or more while in pursuit of his elusive catch.
Bomber Fat A Crankbait
Bomber Fat Free Shad
Rapala DT Series
Rebel Wee R
Hank Parker
Hank Parker is a highly respected figure in the world of professional bass fishing. Born in 1953, he’s known for his remarkable career and numerous accomplishments. Hank Parker’s expertise on the water, honed over decades, has earned him a place among the sport’s legends. He has won two Bassmaster Classic titles and established himself as a prominent television personality, hosting his own fishing shows. His passion for angling and his dedication to teaching and entertaining fellow anglers have solidified his status as one of the most influential figures in the fishing community. Hank Parker’s enduring contributions to the sport and his engaging television presence have made him an iconic name in the world of bass fishing.
Hank Parker Favorite Crankbaits
Hank Parker holds a strong affinity for a select few crankbaits that have consistently proven their effectiveness in various fishing scenarios. Among his favorites, the Bandit 200 Series crankbait stands out as a trusted choice for targeting shallow-water bass, known for its reliable action and versatility. Additionally, Hank Parker relies on the Bomber Model A and Rebel Deep Wee R for their diving capabilities, often employing them to reach different depths and maximize his chances of landing big catches.
Bandit 200 Series Crankbait
Norman Lures DD22 Crankbait
Rapala DT Series
Rebel Wee R
Rapala DT Series Crankbait
