Did you know that some of the largest fish can be found in vernal pools? These hidden, natural reservoirs are home to several unique species and record-sized individuals. And, while you may not have considered it before, they also offer anglers an excellent opportunity to catch large fish. Reducing your rattle trap lures down to their simplest form makes them even more effective at catching big fish. While adding bells and whistles may give you the feeling those lures look cooler, removing them allows you to focus on what matters most: the bait! So let’s ditch all those extra components and get right down with a no-frills rattle trap lure that’s perfect for catching big fish in vernal pools.
What is a rattle trap lure?
A rattle trap lure is a fishing lure that is designed to create an underwater noise that draws fish in to investigate the sound. There are many different designs and styles of rattle trap lures available but they are usually made up of four main components – a container, an oscillator, a rattle, and a bait. The container is designed to hold the bait and help facilitate rotation. The oscillator is what causes the rattle trap to create sound. The rattle is included to add a bit of noise to the trap and help to entice the fish. The bait is used to draw fish in and keep them interested in the trap. Rattle trap lures are most commonly used for freshwater fishing for species such as bass, pike, and crappie, but can also be used for saltwater species such as tuna, grouper, snapper, and more.
The baits that make up your rattle trap lure
The only part of your rattle trap lure that should be left untouched is the bait. But what bait should you use? Just about any bait will work as long as it is fresh and appealing to the fish you are targeting. Ideal bait includes night crawlers, wax worms, crickets, maggots, and mealworms. The key is to get your bait as close to the rattle trap as possible. While you can place the bait on top of the trap, it is much more effective if it is placed underneath. This allows the fish to smell the bait and come in direct contact with the bait. This is perhaps the most effective way to draw in large fish.
Choosing your rattle trap bait
Choosing the right bait for your rattle trap lure can make all the difference between catching a small fish and reeling in a record-sized specimen. Like with any type of fishing, you need to know what fish are in the area and what they like to eat to increase your chances of catching something. While many different species are common in vernal pools, there are a few that stand out as being especially good to target with a rattle trap lure. These include largemouth bass, bluegill, and pumpkinseed.
Choose the right color for the job
While color won’t make any difference to the taste of your bait, it can certainly influence how many fish you end up catching. Some colors will attract more fish than others, and this is something you will want to consider when you are creating your rattle trap lure. Several factors determine which colors will attract fish the most. Water conditions – If the water is clear, you will have more options than if the water is murky. Time of day – Some colors are only effective during certain times of day while others are best all day long. Weather – Fish are less likely to bite in bad weather.
Hook, line, and sinker
While the bait is the most important part of your rattle trap lure, it is not the only thing that matters. The line you use, the type of hook you employ, and the sinker you employ can all make a difference. The line you choose should be strong enough to handle the weight of the sinker you employ. It is also important to select a line that can withstand the water pressure. Most anglers prefer a braided line because it is extremely strong and can handle the pressure well. The type of hook you use will depend on the type of fish you are targeting. Selecting a hook that is small enough to fit in the mouth of the fish is important. This ensures you don’t damage or injure the fish. You also want a hook that is strong enough to resist bending or breaking. The sinker you use will depend on the depth of the water and the size of the fish you are targeting. Drifting is often done at a slow pace and the size of the fish you are after will dictate the depth of the water.
Where to place your rattle traps
Now, you know how to catch a big fish with a rattle trap lure, but where do you put it? Rattle traps come in a few different forms, but the one you choose will depend on the type of water you are fishing in. If you are fishing in shallow water, you can employ an above-water trap. These are typically smaller than the others and are designed to sit on the surface. If you want to fish in deeper water, you should consider a below-water trap. The type of water you are fishing in will dictate the type of trap you use. The water will also dictate how long you leave the trap out.
Conclusion
The best time to fish is during the spawning season and the best time to fish for spawning fish is in the spring and early summer when vernal pools are flooded and fish are actively seeking mates. Catching a big fish during the spawning season is even better because of the number of eggs they are carrying and the nutrients that come from the bait. Fishing during this time of year and in these pools is a great way to catch big fish and have an excellent experience.