Just Fishing Lures

Lures vs live bait? what are some pros and cons of both?

Live bait is essentially easier to use effectively than lures. This is both an advantage and disadvantage, however, because while it catches more fish it may become boring after a while. Seasoned fisherman typically prefer artificials because they enjoy honing the skills necessary to use them effectively. However, certain fishing situations make live bait almost a requirement- like ice-fishing, fishing for large musky, certain saltwater fishing situations.

Live Bait
–PROS
—-Easier to use effectively – the fisherman does not need to give the bait “action” he just lets it sit.
—-Cheaper if the line breaks- “you lose one, you rig one”
—-Deep presentations somewhat easier
–CONS
—-Less skill required –> less challenge –> day after day, it becomes boring
—-Hooks swallowed more easily, especially when used by inexperienced fisherman
—-Cost, or effort, spent getting bait and keeping it healthy- buckets, aerators, nets, etc.
—-Not much variety of fishing methods

Artificials/Lures
–PROS
—-More skill required to master, success provides a greater sense of achievement and satisfaction
—-Variety of fishing methods, in particular- topwater, flyfishing, better weedless presentations
—-Fewer hooks swallowed, better for catch-and-release
CONS
—-Treble hooks can be dangerous to fish, especially trout and other delicate fish
—-Cost of individual lures can be high. Large lures for musky or saltwater can be extremely high.

Fishing – Learning Fishing Baits and Lures