The crankbait isn't the first lure you think of when it comes to pike fishing. However, crankbaits can prove to be a worthwhile choice when it comes to fishing for pike while stirring up as much water as possible. Initially modest in size for this predator, some XXL models can now be used to target this fish in particular. So we wanted to select 5 pike crankbaits must-haves that have proven their worth in the field.
DEPS Evoke 4.0: An XXL crankbait cut for pike
The DEPS Evoke 4.0 is quite simply the biggest squarebill cranckbait on the market today. At 10 cm long and weighing 56 g, this crankbait has a phenomenal size-to-weight ratio. These XXL dimensions make this a pike crankbait of choice that has often proved its worth on our territory. This silent crankbait was originally designed for the huge black bass of Japan and the United States. It will prove its worth in environments where fishing pressure is high. We've selected it for the search for big pike in obstacles such as rocks, woods or weedbeds.
This pike crankbait comes to life even at low speeds and has a very wide rolling action that moves a lot of water. The crankbait has a wide lip, but is short enough to be used with a standard swimbait rod. The density of this crankbait means you can cast it very far without ever straining your arm. What's more, it can descend to a maximum depth of 4 metres. This means that this lure can be used at a variety of depths and quickly target areas of activity.
Zip Baits B Switcher 4.0 "No Rattle": A must-have
If there's one crankbait that every pike angler should own, it's the Zip Baits B Switcher 4.0 "No Rattle. Whether you're after pike or other predators, this crankbait is extremely effective. The B-Switcher can be cast from a very good distance and with precision thanks to the work done on its mass transfer. We recommend the "no rattle" version, which has proved its worth time and time again on wary fish or in areas of high fishing pressure.
Its large lip makes it dive very quickly and protects it from obstacles. This allows it to avoid obstacles and go after the pike wherever it is. This is the benchmark crankbait, recognised and used by anglers the world over.
Rapala Super Shad Rap: A world reference
The Super Shad Rap is a benchmark for stalking large predators, including pike. Evolving between 2 and 3m, this hybrid crankbait dives quickly but can also, at low recovery speed, work close to the surface.
Its extremely strong through metal frame allows it to withstand repeated attacks from predators. Considered as a crankbait, it also reacts very well to large pulls as one could do on an exo jerkbait. It then dives on recovery and floats on release, which is a very good solution to get over obstacles.
Exceptional efficiency and great versatility. In our opinion, this is what makes the Rapala Super Shad Rap one of the best crankbaits for pike and big predators, despite the years.
OSP Blitz Max DR: A perfect deep crankbait for pike
The OSP Blitz Max DR is a giant deep crankbait capable of targeting large predators such as pike. This new generation crankbait excels in distance and casting accuracy despite its long lip. The body is semi-flat, which means it takes in more water and generates more flashes on the retrieve.
Its great swimming depth (0 to 4.5 metres) allows this big crankbait to explore deep spots often rich in beautiful specimens. Its high buoyancy also contributes to a significant reduction in the number of hooks. We consider the Blitz Max DR as one of the best deep crankbaits on the market and a great choice for deep pike fishing.
Strike Pro Jonny Vobbler: the ultimate pike crankbait
This pike crankbait has been a fixture in northern Europe for many years. Stocky, big and heavy, it displaces an impressive amount of water on the retrieve. It's an ideal prospecting crankbait for quickly spotting active pike.
15cm longWe advise you to use this lure mainly in shallow areas of up to 1.5m.
Its profile allows it to be cast particularly far, and its lack of sound will give it an advantage in heavily fished waters. In our opinion, it's a perfect compromise between size/colour/shape and swimming action and an ideal complement to the Buster for prospecting edges and shallow areas.
Useful links to complete this article on crankbait pike:
Pike jerkbait: our selection of 5 pike jerkbaits
