This overview groups hard-body lures with related metal-bladed lures so you can recognize the names before learning a specific technique. The grouping is for navigation: it does not mean every lure listed has a rigid body. Vermont Fish & Wildlife, for example, notes that topwater lures include both hard-bodied and soft-bodied designs. (Vermont Fish & Wildlife)
Crankbaits
Vermont describes crankbaits as baitfish imitators and divides them into lipped and lipless types. Different designs run at different depths. North Dakota Game and Fish notes that crankbaits can be cast and reeled in—a basic introduction, rather than one retrieve for every model. (Vermont: Crankbaits; North Dakota: Open-Water Tackle)
Minnow baits and jerkbaits
Vermont calls these hard-body lures stickbaits, also known as jerkbaits, slashbaits or minnow baits. Its examples include floating and suspending styles, jointed and one-piece versions, and models made for different depths. The agency says they can be worked steadily or erratically, fast or slow. (Vermont: Stickbaits or Jerkbaits)
Spinners and spinnerbaits
South Dakota GFP describes a spinner as a metal shaft with a spinning blade and suggests casting and retrieving while trying different speeds. Texas Parks & Wildlife magazine describes spinnerbaits with single or double blades; blade combinations can produce both vibration and flash. These are related blade-lure categories, included here alongside hard-body lures. (South Dakota GFP, printed p. 11; Texas Parks & Wildlife: Blades and Spinners)
Topwater: poppers and walking baits
Vermont describes poppers with a cupped nose that pushes water forward, creating sound and surface action. Walking-style baits are known for side-to-side action. This section refers to the hard-bodied versions; not every topwater is a hard bait. (Vermont: Popper Baits)
Before you cast
North Dakota advises carrying pliers to remove treble hooks safely. Check the rules for your particular water before choosing a lure or hook: Fishing by State. (North Dakota Game and Fish)
Keep exploring: Soft Plastics · Live & Natural Baits · Baits & Lures Selection.
Sources checked Nov 6, 2026 (PT).
