lipless crankbait over yellow perch scales

Despite the increased usage of forward-facing sonar, there’s a time in the spring where if you’re not throwing a “trap” you’re not going to be effective. A lipless crankbait is not only a great way to cover water and win tournaments, but it’s also a great way to introduce newcomers to the sport – and give them a chance of catching a giant.

Obviously, there are some basic patterns that’ll never go out of style – like chrome with a blue back or classic Rayburn Red – along with regional favorites. However, I rarely hear anglers talking about traps that imitate yellow perch, despite the fact that they’re one of the most prolific forage species here on the Potomac as well as throughout the north. If you think that your fishing might benefit from imitating the old “ring perch,” check out some of the various imitators: