Live Bait or Lures for fishing success

Live bait or lures is an enduring debate among fishos although the choice between the two is not just a matter of preference.

It can significantly influence the outcome of a fishing expedition.

In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the pros and cons of lures vs live bait, and put it to the test in Central Queensland with a fishing challenge video.

The Case for Lures: Pros and Cons

Advantages of Lures

In this particular challenge, we are using our 36 gram Pillager lures. A sinking stick bait now used as an alternative to a vibe, this versatile lure has caught MANY trophy fish.

The big plus with lures is you don’t have to go catch the live bait! This can be challenging for some people which is why we created our Locating Livies course.

With lures, of course, you just dig into the tackle box and grab what you need. No mess in the boat. No time chasing bait.

In addition, lures offer the ability to cover more ground with different casting angles. Anglers can also choose from an extensive array of colors, shapes, and sizes, allowing them to mimic different prey.

I vary my retrieve speed, depth and change lures out, all to present the perfect opportunity for fish to bite. Such as in this video chasing barra, seeing them on the sounder, and adjusting depth to run directly in front of the fish.

For a full list of my favourite lures, sign up for our gear and tackle cheat sheet.

Drawbacks of Lures

However, the use of lures comes with its set of challenges.

• They are expensive.
• You can lose them easily.
• It is up to the angler to present the lure in an appealing way (whereas a live bait struggling will do that for you).
• Lure choice is a big factor and is usually done more successfully by experienced anglers.

One of the reasons we give for doing our live bait course (even if you want to use lures) is to learn how predatory fish hunt and how live bait react (so you can mimic it).

The Case for Live Bait: Pros and Cons

Advantages of Live Bait

Live bait, with its natural scent and lifelike movement, remains a timeless choice for many anglers.
It has the inherent ability to attract a broad spectrum of fish, making it particularly effective in enticing cautious or finicky species or those off the chew.

It’s great for kids as catching livies is half the fun. And at worst, you can always eat the livies if you come up empty handed LOL.

Early on in my career, I used a lot of live bait, although nowadays I’m mostly a lure fisherman. But there are times when I return to my live baiting roots. It’s a very effective way to catch good fish! e.g. you’ll see many of the big barra in this series with live bait hooks hanging out of their mouths.

Drawbacks of Live Bait

Live bait, however, is not without its drawbacks. The need for proper storage, considering factors like temperature and aeration, can be challenging. Plus its availability may vary based on location and fishing regulations.

Take a look at our previous blog on a built in (non-plumbed) live bait tank.

A Closer Look: Recent Experiences Live Bait or Lures

In a recent fishing challenge video, we compare our Pillager lures vs live bait and showcase their prowess in the hands of skilled anglers.