Best Baits For Speckled Trout (2024 Update)
If you’re looking for an exciting and challenging fishing experience, catching speckled trout is a great option. To have the best chance of success, it’s important to have the right bait. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. But there are certain factors to consider before making a purchase.
Firstly, consider the water conditions in which you’ll be fishing. If the water is clear, brighter-colored baits such as chartreuse and pink may work well. Alternatively, darker-colored baits such as black and purple may work better in murky water. Additionally, consider the time of day and season you plan to fish. Speckled trout tend to feed more actively in low light conditions. Therefore, using bait that mimics their natural prey such as shrimp or mullet is a great idea.
To really attract the attention of speckled trout and create interest, try using baits that have a scent or flavor. Savvy anglers know that using baits with a natural scent can be the difference between a successful catch and a frustrating day on the water. Consider asking other anglers what they’ve had success with and do some research beforehand to help narrow down your options.
In summary, choosing the best bait for speckled trout fishing requires careful consideration of the water conditions, time of day, and season. Experiment with different types of baits, scents, and flavors until you find the ones that work best for you. With the right bait and approach, you’ll increase your chances of having a successful fishing trip and reeling in some impressive speckled trout.
10 Best Baits For Speckled Trout
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It is ideal for attracting various types of fish in both freshwater and saltwater environments.
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2
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Ideal for fishing bass, speckled trout, flounder, and redfish with soft crawfish baits.
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3
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This product is ideal for fishing in both freshwater and saltwater environments with a soft, scented bait.
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4
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The product is ideal for fishing in both freshwater and saltwater environments with its scented and soft bait design.
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5
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The product is ideal for catching speckled trout while fishing.
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6
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Ideal for catching bass, trout, walleye, and crappie with a soft plastic swimbait paddle tail shad lure in various sizes.
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7
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The product is ideal for catching speckled trout, redfish, flounder, and snook using a 3 inch soft lure with a jig head.
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8
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This product is ideal for fishing bass, trout, pike, walleye, and crappie, using soft swimbait lures.
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9
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The product is ideal for catching a variety of fish in both freshwater and saltwater environments.
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10
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This product is an ideal swimbait for catching speckled trout and redfish, with a 3 inch double rig paddletail design.
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1. H&h Shrimp Tko: Lifelike Lures For All Fish
The pack of 3 H&H TKO Shrimp is a must-have for any fishing enthusiast. These artificial shrimp lures are a favorite among fishermen and fisherwomen in the waters of Louisiana and beyond. They are internally weighted to provide a lifelike action that will help you reel in keeper after keeper.
The lifelike action of these natural soft shrimp lures is unbeatable, and it draws the attention of various saltwater and freshwater fish such as specks, red fish, and flounder. The extra strong stainless steel hooks ensure that the lure will hang in the fight, even with the biggest of bruisers.
The H&H TKO Shrimp is the original and the best. There are many soft plastic shrimp lures out there, but nothing compares to the H&H TKO Shrimp. Accept no substitutes!
H & H Lure Company has been manufacturing quality fishing tackle since 1959. This family-owned business based out of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, takes pride in having been in the fishing tackle industry for over 60 years.
H & H Lure Company is confident in the quality of its products and accessories for both freshwater and saltwater applications. Their products are guaranteed against defects in materials and workmanship. If you aren't fully satisfied with your product, send them a message, and they'll send you a full refund.
2. Matrix Shad Craw Lure – Perfect For Bass Fishing!
The Matrix Craws by the creators of the original Louisiana famous Matrix Shad Lures is a package content that includes 6 packs of 4 inches long crawfish bait lures. These saltwater and freshwater crayfish lures are perfect for inshore fishing, specifically for catching Bass (smallmouth and largemouth), Snook, Speckled Trout, Red Fish, and as a Flounder lure. The special design of these soft plastic crawfish baits delivers a very realistic wriggling action in the water, making it a great choice for attracting big fish.
The Matrix Craws come in different colors to fit every different environment. Each crawfish lure has been tested and proven to work, ensuring that you have the right color for the right fishing location. Whether you are fishing in freshwater or saltwater, these lures will provide you with the best results.
These crawfish bait lures are made from durable soft plastic materials, making them the most durable soft plastic lures available in the market. You can trust that these lures will last you a long time and help you catch many fish. The Matrix Shad swim baits are of high quality and will provide you with the confidence to catch more fish.
If for any reason you are not satisfied with the Matrix Craws, the company provides a money-back guarantee. You can contact them directly, and they will refund your money within 24 hours. This speaks to the confidence the company has in its product and its commitment to ensuring customer satisfaction.
3. Charlie's Worms Swimming Juke, Scented, Soft Bait For Freshwater Saltwater, 8pk
This fishing lure is designed to provide a top-notch fishing experience for snook and redfish enthusiasts. Its medium-textured plastic construction allows it to float near the surface, and its lightweight design enables it to skip across the water with ease. Additionally, the lure's heavier front end causes its nose to dive naturally, creating a mesmerizing dance in the water when cranked across the surface.
The lure is crafted with high-quality plastisol that can endure repetitive casting, making it a reliable and long-lasting addition to any tackle box. It is available in a variety of colors, allowing anglers to choose the one that best matches their fishing environment and target species.
For added convenience, this lure comes in a resealable pack of 8, making it easy to store and transport between fishing trips. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a new fisherman, this fishing lure is a must-have for your collection. With its exceptional design, durability, and versatility, it is sure to help you reel in your next big catch.
4. Charlie's Worms Big Dipper, Scented, Soft Bait For Freshwater Saltwater, 5pk
Introducing Charlie's Big Dipper soft baits – the perfect addition to your fishing gear. These soft baits are expertly designed to resemble a shad or mid-size bait fish, making them an irresistible lure for even the most reluctant large game fish.
One of the standout features of this bait is its thick nose shape, which allows it to be cast like a missile, ensuring you can cast it farther and with more accuracy. Measuring 5.5" in length, Charlie's Big Dipper is sizable enough to attract the attention of even the biggest fish in the water.
Each pack contains five of these versatile baits, conveniently packaged in a resealable bag. Whether you're fishing in freshwater or saltwater, Charlie's Big Dipper soft baits have been tested and proven to produce great results.
Don't settle for less when it comes to your fishing gear. Trust Charlie's Big Dipper soft baits to help you reel in your next big catch. With its expert design and impressive features, you'll never want to go back to your old baits again.
5. Rapala Skitter Walk 08 Fishing Lure, Speckled Trout
The Rapala "Walk-the-Dog" Action lure is a must-have for any angler looking to reel in some serious catches. This lure boasts a unique "Walk-the-Dog" action that imitates the movement of live bait, making it irresistible to fish. The weighted tail allows for easy casting and a realistic swimming motion in the water, while the realistic eyes add to its lifelike appearance.
Crafted from rugged materials, this lure is built to withstand the toughest fishing conditions. The super sharp VMC hooks ensure that any fish that bites won't get away. And with a variety of colors and sizes available, there's a Rapala "Walk-the-Dog" Action lure for every fishing situation.
Whether you're a seasoned angler or just starting out, the Rapala "Walk-the-Dog" Action lure is a reliable and effective choice for catching fish. With its realistic movement and durable construction, it's sure to become a staple in your fishing tackle box.
6. Shadmaster Soft Swim Bait – Bass Must-Have
Introducing the Lifelike Swimming Soft Plastic Shad Lure – a must-have for any fishing enthusiast! This lure boasts a paddle tail design, made with super soft material, providing an extremely enticing swimming action that is sure to attract hungry fish. With its realistic appearance and swimming action, it closely mimics that of a real bait fish, making it irresistible to any target fish.
The ultra-realistic details of this shad soft plastic lure are sure to capture the attention of any fish. Featuring a highly detailed fish scale pattern, fish gills plate, and ultra-realistic 3D eyes, the lure also includes flash foil in the belly to provide reflection under the water, making it perfect for days when you need that extra flash to attract bites.
Setting up this shad bait is a breeze! Fish it with either a weightless hook, jighead, or small weighted hook, or rig it up as a dropshot, Carolina, Texas, shakey, or wacky with an extra wide gap hook. With its multipurpose use, this soft plastic bait can imitate a lot of natural looking motions, making it a great catch for bass, trout, panfish, crappie, rockfish, mackerel, smallmouths, and stripers fishing.
The Lifelike Swimming Soft Plastic Shad Lure is made of high-quality soft plastic, ensuring durability and flexibility. It won't tear easily, making it a reliable and long-lasting addition to your fishing gear. Available in a variety of colors and sizes, the lure is tailored to different fish species, with different colors for each. Choose from colors 01 to 10, with lengths ranging from 2.75" to 3.94" and weights of 1/11oz, 1/10oz, and 1/5oz.
The package includes 6pcs/bag for 2.75" length, 6pcs/bag for 3.14" length, and 5pcs/bag for 3.94" length. With its soft and lifelike baits, realistic details, and easy setup, this shad soft plastic lure is a must-have for any fishing trip. Upgrade your fishing game with the Lifelike Swimming Soft Plastic Shad Lure today!
7. H&h Sparkle Beetle Double Rig 3 Inch 1/4 Jig Head Soft Lure Speckled Trout, Redfish, Flounder, Snook
Looking for a reliable fishing lure that can help you catch your favorite species? Look no further than the H&H Original Double Rigged Sparkle Beetle Lure! Measuring 3 inches long and pre-rigged at 1/4 oz, this soft plastic fishing lure is designed with classic H&H quality, making it a must-have for any fishing enthusiast.
Whether you're searching for red drum in Louisiana, Snook in Florida, or Stripers in Rhode Island, the H&H Sparkle Beetle is sure to deliver. Fans of this lure have reported great success catching speckled trout, redfish, sea bass, flounder, and many other species all around the USA.
For over 60 years, H&H Lure Company has been manufacturing quality fishing tackle. As a family-owned business based out of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, they take pride in their products and accessories for both freshwater and saltwater applications. You can feel confident in the quality of their products, and their money-back guarantee ensures that you can shop with peace of mind.
In the unlikely event that you aren't fully satisfied with your purchase, simply send a message to H&H Lure Company and they will provide you with a full refund. Don't settle for subpar fishing lures – choose the H&H Original Double Rigged Sparkle Beetle Lure and experience the difference!
8. Soft Swimbait Fishing Lures – Complete Bass Set
Experience the lifelike swimming action of the Soft Plastic Shad Lure, designed to bring in hungry fish with ease. Its tail split design and super soft material create an irresistible swimming action that mimics that of a real baitfish. With this lure, you can expect to attract a variety of fish species in no time.
The Soft Plastic Shad Lure features ultra-realistic details that make it impossible for target fishes to ignore. The highly detailed fish scale pattern, fish gills plate, and 3D eyes create a realistic look that is sure to catch the attention of any fish. Additionally, the flash foil in the belly provides reflection under the water, making it perfect for days when you need that extra flash to attract bites.
Setting up the Soft Plastic Shad Lure is a breeze, as you can use a weightless hook, jighead, or small weighted hook, or rig it up as a dropshot, Carolina, Texas, shakey, or wacky with an extra wide gap hook. This versatility makes it a great choice for many fishing situations.
This soft plastic bait is multi-purpose, making it perfect for bass, trout, panfish, crappie, rockfish, mackerel, smallmouths, and stripers fishing. The shad lure imitates a lot of natural-looking motions, and fish of all sizes will attack it.
The Soft Plastic Shad Lure is made of high-quality soft plastic, ensuring that it is durable and flexible, and won't tear easily. It is available in a variety of colors, including 01, 02, 03, 04, 05, 06, 07, 08, 09, and 10. The lures come in three different sizes: 7.5cm/2.95" x 1.8g(1/16oz) x 6Pcs, 10cm/3.93" x 5g(1/6oz) x 5Pcs, and 12cm/4.72" x 8g(2/7oz) x 5Pcs. You can choose the color and size that best fits your fishing needs.
9. Lifelike Shrimp Lure For Saltwater Fishing
The H&H TKO Shrimp pack includes 3 artificial shrimp lures, each weighing 1/2 oz. These lures are highly favored by anglers in Louisiana and beyond due to their lifelike action and effectiveness in catching table fare saltwater and freshwater fish like specks, red fish, and flounder.
What sets the H&H TKO Shrimp apart from other soft plastic shrimp lures is its natural and realistic movement that mimics that of a live shrimp. The lures are internally weighted to enhance the lifelike action and draw the attention of fish. Additionally, the stainless steel hooks are incredibly strong, ensuring that even the biggest fish won't be able to break free during the fight.
H&H Lure Company has been manufacturing high-quality fishing tackle since 1959. As a family-owned business based in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, they take pride in offering top-notch products for both freshwater and saltwater applications. With over 60 years of experience, they have established themselves as a reliable and trustworthy brand in the fishing tackle industry.
The H&H TKO Shrimp pack comes with a money-back guarantee, which speaks to the confidence they have in their products. If for any reason, you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, simply reach out to the company and they will provide a full refund.
10. Glowing Double Rig Cocahoe Minnows Swimbait.
The H&H Original Double Rigged Cocahoe Minnow Lure is a must-have for any angler's tackle box. Measuring at 3 inches long, this soft plastic lure is pre-rigged and ready to go. With over 100 million sold, it's no wonder why this lure is a favorite among both commercial and sport fishermen.
This versatile lure is perfect for catching a variety of species, including bass, red drum, snook, stripers, sea bass, flounder, and many others. The H&H Cocahoe Minnow is renowned for its effectiveness in catching speckled trout and redfish along the Gulf Coast, making it an essential tool for any angler in that area.
Crafted with classic H&H quality, this lure is a proven product that has been relied upon by anglers year after year. H&H Lure Company has been manufacturing quality fishing tackle since 1959 and is a proud, family-owned business based out of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. With over 60 years of experience in the industry, they have become a trusted name among anglers.
In addition to their commitment to quality, H&H Lure Company offers a money-back guarantee on all their products. If for any reason you're not fully satisfied with your purchase, you can send them a message and they'll provide a full refund.
Best Baits For Speckled Trout FAQs
Are live baits or artificial baits better for catching speckled trout?
The choice between live baits or artificial baits for catching speckled trout depends on several factors. While live baits like shrimp, mullet, and minnows are effective in attracting trout, they require more effort and preparation to catch and keep them alive. On the other hand, artificial baits like soft plastics, topwater lures, and jigs are convenient, versatile, and can mimic the movement and appearance of live baits.
In terms of effectiveness, both live and artificial baits can catch speckled trout, but the success rate may vary depending on the conditions and the angler's skill level. For example, live baits may work better in murky water or when the trout are not actively feeding, while artificial baits may be more effective in clear water or when the trout are targeting a particular prey.
Ultimately, the choice between live or artificial baits comes down to personal preference, fishing style, and the fishing environment. Experimenting with different baits and techniques can help determine what works best for catching speckled trout.
Are there any specific locations that require different types of bait when targeting speckled trout?
Yes, speckled trout can be found in different locations such as bays, estuaries, inlets, and offshore waters. The type of bait you use can vary depending on the location and the time of year. In general, live bait such as shrimp, mullet, and menhaden are effective for speckled trout. In shallow waters, using topwater lures and soft plastic baits can also be effective.
When targeting speckled trout in bays and estuaries, using live shrimp under a popping cork can be very successful. In deeper waters, using jigheads with soft plastic baits can be effective. Inlets and passes are great locations for using live baitfish, and offshore waters require heavier tackle and live bait such as cigar minnows or threadfin herring.
It's always a good idea to do some research on the location you plan to fish and ask local experts for their advice on what bait works best. Experimenting with different types of bait and techniques can also help you find success when targeting speckled trout.
How do I rig my bait for the best chance of catching speckled trout?
To rig your bait for the best chance of catching speckled trout, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, you should choose the right bait. Speckled trout are known to prefer live bait such as shrimp, crabs, and small fish. Make sure to choose fresh bait that is lively and active.
Next, you should rig your bait using a Carolina rig. This rig involves a weight at the bottom and a leader with a hook at the end. The weight will keep your bait near the bottom where speckled trout tend to feed, while the leader will allow your bait to move naturally in the water.
When rigging your bait, make sure to hook it through the head or tail to allow it to swim freely. You can also add a small piece of cut bait or a scent attractant to entice the fish to bite.
Finally, make sure to use light tackle and a slow retrieve to avoid spooking the fish. Speckled trout can be finicky, so patience and attention to detail are key to increasing your chances of a successful catch.
Should I use lures or jigs when fishing for speckled trout?
When it comes to fishing for speckled trout, both lures and jigs can be effective options. However, the choice between the two depends on various factors such as water conditions, the depth of the water, and the behavior of the fish.
Lures are a popular choice among anglers as they can mimic the movement and appearance of baitfish, which is a favorite food of speckled trout. They come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, and can be used to cover a large area of water. Lures are ideal for shallow waters and can be used to attract fish from a distance.
On the other hand, jigs are better suited for deeper waters and can be used to target fish that are holding close to the bottom. Jigs are versatile and can be used with a variety of bait types such as plastic grubs, live shrimp, or soft plastic baitfish. They are also effective in areas with strong currents as they can be easily bounced off the bottom.
Ultimately, the choice between lures and jigs depends on the conditions you are fishing in and your personal preference. It's always a good idea to bring a variety of options and experiment to see what works best in a particular situation.
What are the best artificial baits to use when targeting speckled trout?
When targeting speckled trout, there are a variety of artificial baits that can be effective. One popular option is soft plastic lures, such as swimbaits or jerkbaits. These can be rigged with a jighead or weighted hook and worked along the bottom or through the water column to mimic a wounded baitfish. Another effective choice is topwater lures, such as poppers or walking baits, which can create a commotion on the surface and entice aggressive strikes from hungry trout. Additionally, spoons and spinnerbaits can be effective when fished at the right depth and retrieved at a consistent speed. When selecting artificial baits for speckled trout, it's important to consider factors such as water temperature, current, and the size and color of the baitfish in the area. Experimenting with different lures and techniques can help you find what works best in your specific fishing location.
What are the best live baits to use when targeting speckled trout?
When it comes to targeting speckled trout, using live baits can be highly effective. Some of the best live baits for speckled trout include shrimp, mullet, croakers, pinfish, and mud minnows. Shrimp is particularly popular and can be used throughout the year. It's important to match the size of the bait to the size of the trout you are targeting. For example, smaller baits like mud minnows and pinfish are ideal for smaller trout, while larger baits like mullet and croakers are more suitable for larger trout. Additionally, it's important to present the bait in a natural and enticing way, such as using a popping cork or free-lining the bait. Overall, using live baits can increase your chances of catching speckled trout and provide an exciting and rewarding fishing experience.
What colors should I use when choosing artificial baits for speckled trout?
When it comes to choosing artificial baits for speckled trout, the color of the bait can play a significant role in attracting or repelling the fish. Generally, speckled trout tend to be attracted to baits that mimic the natural prey they feed on, such as shrimp, mullet, and minnows. Therefore, choosing colors that resemble these prey items can be effective.
For example, shades of brown, green, and white can mimic the coloration of shrimp, while silver, gold, and black can resemble mullet and minnows. Additionally, colors that provide contrast can also be effective, as they can catch the fish's attention. Bright colors like chartreuse, pink, and orange can be useful in murky or stained water conditions.
However, it's important to note that color preference can vary depending on factors such as water clarity, time of day, and weather conditions. Therefore, it's always a good idea to have a variety of colors on hand and to experiment with different colors to see what works best in your particular fishing situation.
What size bait should I use when targeting speckled trout?
When targeting speckled trout, the size of bait you use can greatly impact your success. Generally, smaller baits are more effective when targeting this species. Live baits such as shrimp, crabs, and small minnows are great options. Using a hook size of 1/0 or smaller is recommended. Artificial baits such as soft plastic lures in natural colors can also be effective. When using artificial baits, choose a size that mimics the natural prey of speckled trout. It's important to keep in mind that speckled trout are known for their sharp eyesight and can easily detect unnatural looking baits. Therefore, it's important to use a bait that looks as natural as possible. Experiment with different sizes and types of bait until you find what works best for you in the location and conditions you are fishing in.
What time of day is best for using certain baits when targeting speckled trout?
When it comes to targeting speckled trout, the best time of day to use certain baits can depend on a variety of factors such as water temperature, weather conditions, and tidal currents. However, there are some general guidelines that can prove helpful.
In the early morning hours, before the sun rises, topwater lures such as poppers or walking baits can be effective as speckled trout are often feeding on the surface. As the sun rises and the water temperature begins to warm up, soft plastics, like paddle tails, can be effective as they mimic the movements of baitfish. During midday, when the sun is high and the water is warm, suspending lures like jerk baits can work well as they allow for a slower presentation. In the evening hours, topwater lures can be effective once again as the water cools down and speckled trout become more active.
Overall, the best time of day to use certain baits when targeting speckled trout can vary based on the specific conditions of the water and weather patterns. It's important to experiment with different baits and techniques to determine what works best for the given situation.
What type of bait is most effective for catching speckled trout?
When it comes to catching speckled trout, using the right bait can make all the difference. The most effective bait for speckled trout can vary depending on factors such as location, time of year, and weather conditions. However, there are a few types of bait that are generally considered to be effective.
Live bait is often the go-to choice for catching speckled trout. This can include shrimp, mullet, and other small fish. Many anglers prefer to use live shrimp because it is readily available and easy to use. Another popular option is artificial lures, such as soft plastic baits or topwater lures. These can mimic the movements of live bait and can be effective in attracting speckled trout.
It's important to remember that the best bait for catching speckled trout can vary depending on the conditions. It's a good idea to experiment with different baits and techniques until you find the one that works best for you. Additionally, be sure to check local regulations to ensure that you are using legal bait and techniques in your area.
