When bass are feeding up shallow, my preferred method to catch them is a square bill crankbait. Although this is a killer way to catch fish, not all square bill crankbaits are created equal. Having the wrong one tied on could be killing your catch rate.
Because of that, I have assembled this post to show you some outstanding square bill crankbaits on the marketplace! To note, these items are not in any particular order. These are my favorites in a helpful list.
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Table of Contents
Top 7 Best Square Bill Crankbaits
Shallow water crankbait fishing is one of the most fun ways to catch bass. A good square bill crankbait is one that can run shallow in that 1-5 foot depth, it has to have great action, and obviously, it has to catch fish.
Most anglers, including myself, like a shallow running crankbait that has a nice wobble motion from side to side. This gives a more erratic action as well as displacing a little bit more water than if it just ran straight and true.
Let’s get into the list of cranks and where I like to fish them.
1. Rapala Balsa Xtreme Brat
The Rapala Balsa Extreme Brat Square Bill Crankbait stands out as a premier option for anglers seeking to catch bass with reaction mixed with finesse. Its impeccable design and realistic movements make it a go-to choice for both recreational fishermen and seasoned competitors alike.
Notably, professional anglers such as Aaron Martens and Edwin Evers have attested to its effectiveness in Bassmaster and FLW tournaments, where it has played a pivotal role in securing impressive bags.
The lure’s square bill enables it to navigate through cover effortlessly, making it particularly effective around submerged structures, rocky outcrops, and shallow vegetation—prime hiding spots for bass on the hunt.
Whether you’re vying for a tournament victory or simply enjoying a leisurely day on the water, the Rapala Balsa Extreme Brat Square Bill Crankbait promises an exhilarating fishing experience with the potential for trophy-worthy catches.
2. Lucky Craft CL 1.5
The Lucky Craft CL 1.5 holds a special place in my tackle box as a trusted companion in bass fishing. With its precise angles and irresistible action, this lure has consistently delivered memorable fish on countless outings.
One particular instance stands out, a morning on the lake, I cast my CL 1.5 towards a cluster of submerged logs. With a subtle retrieve, the lure darted through the water with a wobble, mimicking the erratic movements of prey. I landed one of the best Bass I have personally caught.
Professional bass anglers have also recognized the prowess of the CL 1.5, with legends like Skeet Reese and Brent Ehrler attributing its success to their tournament triumphs. Its ability to dive quickly to optimal depths and entice even the most finicky bass has made it a staple in the arsenals of top competitors.
Whether I’m casting along rocky shorelines, probing submerged structures, or working through dense vegetation, the Lucky Craft CL 1.5 consistently proves its worth, embodying the perfect balance of innovation and reliability in the pursuit of trophy bass.
3. Strike King KVD Square Bill 2.5
The Strike King KVD Squarebill Crankbait holds a cherished spot as a go-to lure that has never failed to deliver bass fishing success stories. With its precision-engineered design and lifelike action, this crankbait has become an indispensable tool in my pursuit of trophy-worthy bass.
Professional bass anglers, including the legendary Kevin VanDam himself, have lauded the effectiveness of the Strike King KVD Squarebill Crankbait in their tournament success. Its ability to bounce off cover and trigger reaction strikes from even the most wary bass has undoubtedly contributed to its success on the competitive circuit.
Whether I’m casting along rocky shorelines, probing submerged structures, or working through weedy patches, the KVD Squarebill continues to exceed expectations, embodying the perfect blend of innovation and reliability in the art of bass fishing.
4. Berkley Square Bill Crankbait
Introducing the Berkley Square Bill Crankbait—a game-changing lure that has taken the bass fishing world by storm. With its innovative design, lifelike action, and proven effectiveness, this crankbait has earned its place as a staple in the tackle boxes of anglers everywhere.
From its durable construction to its versatile performance in various fishing environments, the Berkley Square Bill delivers unmatched results with every cast. Join us as we dive into the features and benefits that make this lure a must-have for anglers of all skill levels.
- Innovative Design: The Berkley Square Bill Crankbait boasts a revolutionary design that sets it apart from traditional crankbaits. Its square-shaped bill allows for enhanced deflection off cover, increasing its ability to trigger strikes from lurking bass.
- Lifelike Action: One of the standout features of this crankbait is its incredibly lifelike action in the water. Whether retrieved at a slow crawl or a rapid pace, the Berkley Square Bill exhibits a natural wobble and erratic movement that mimics that of real baitfish, effectively enticing predatory bass to strike.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of angling in tough conditions, the Berkley Square Bill Crankbait is crafted from high-quality materials that ensure longevity and durability. Its robust construction means anglers can fish confidently without worrying about premature wear or breakage.
- Versatile Performance: From shallow flats to rocky shorelines, this crankbait excels in a variety of fishing environments. Its ability to dive quickly to optimal depths and navigate through cover with ease makes it a versatile choice for anglers targeting bass in different scenarios.
- Proven Effectiveness: Countless anglers have attested to the effectiveness of the Berkley Square Bill Crankbait in their pursuit of trophy bass. Its ability to consistently produce results has earned it a reputation as a must-have lure in any angler’s tackle box.
- Wide Range of Colors: Available in an array of vibrant colors and realistic finishes, the Berkley Square Bill allows anglers to match the hatch and adapt to changing fishing conditions. Whether fishing in clear water or murky conditions, there’s a color option to suit every situation.
- Affordable Price Point: Despite its premium performance and features, the Berkley Square Bill Crankbait remains affordable, making it accessible to anglers of all skill levels. With its excellent value for money, this lure offers a cost-effective solution for anglers seeking top-notch performance without breaking the bank.
the Berkley Square Bill Crankbait stands out as a top contender in the world of bass fishing lures.
5. Lucky Craft LC 2.5 Silent
Introducing the Lucky Craft LC 2.5 Silent—a stealthy and effective weapon in the arsenal of bass anglers. Its silent design eliminates noise, reducing the chance of spooking wary fish. Crafted with precision and durability, it withstands the rigors of aggressive strikes and rugged terrain.
The realistic swimming action mimics natural prey, enticing even the most cautious bass. Available in a variety of colors, it adapts to different water conditions and fish preferences. Trusted by anglers worldwide, the LC 2.5 Silent delivers consistent results, making it a go-to choice for trophy bass hunters.
- Silent Design: The Lucky Craft LC 2.5 Silent boasts a unique silent operation, ensuring minimal disturbance in the water and maximizing its stealthy approach, increasing the chances of enticing even the most cautious bass.
- Precision Balance: Engineered with meticulous attention to detail, this crankbait maintains perfect balance during retrieval, resulting in a consistent and natural swimming action that effectively mimics the movements of real prey, enhancing its overall allure to bass.
- Tough Durability: Constructed from high-quality materials, the LC 2.5 Silent is built to withstand the rigors of aggressive strikes and rugged underwater terrain, providing anglers with a reliable and durable fishing lure that can endure countless fishing trips without compromising its performance.
6. Rapala Xtreme Big Brat
The BX Big Brat is a bully. Like its older brother, it has badly behaved and always looking for a fight Balsa inner core with an armor coating of the rugged copolymer; it is the most durable, fish catchin’ square bill ever.
Constantly searching for the next fight, the Rapala Balsa Xtreme Brat Squarebill Crankbait provides an aggressive wiggle and a super-tough building that is ready to go toe-to-toe with a big wheel. One tough little cookie, the
