Best Fishing Plugs of 2026

Paul Tilton Avatar
Paul Tilton
Last Updated: Jan 8, 2026

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Fishing plugs are one of the most popular types of artificial lures among anglers. These small, hard-bodied lures are designed to mimic the movement and appearance of real fish, making them irresistible to predatory species such as bass, pike, and walleye. Fishing plugs come in a wide range of sizes, shapes, and colors, allowing anglers to match the hatch and target specific species in different types of water. Whether you're fishing in freshwater streams, rivers, or lakes, or saltwater bays and estuaries, there's a fishing plug out there that's perfect for your needs.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

TRUSCEND Multi-Jointed Bass Swimbaits Cover #TOP 1
TRUSCEND Multi-Jointed Bass Swimbaits
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Rapala Bass Boom Box Lure Kit Cover #TOP 2
Rapala Bass Boom Box Lure Kit
ftb score rating icon 9.8
LUCKY CRAFT Flashminnow 110 (714 Metallic Sardine) Cover #TOP 3
LUCKY CRAFT Flashminnow 110 (714 Metallic Sardine)
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Fishing Plugs

#TOP 1

TRUSCEND Multi-Jointed Bass Swimbaits

J6N-AU
A1-3",0.4oz
3in (8cm)
TRUSCEND Multi-Jointed Bass Swimbaits Cover
TRUSCEND Fishing Lures for Bass Trout Swimbaits for Bass Fishing Segmented Multi Jointed Swim Baits Slow Sinking Swimming Lures for Freshwater Saltwater Fishing Gear Lure Kit Gifts Plugs

The TRUSCEND Bass Swimbaits feature a unique 6-segment design that lets the lure sink slowly and swim with a natural, flexible motion. This lifelike movement helps attract more fish by mimicking real prey. You’ll also appreciate the realistic 3D eyes and pearl coating, which make the lure look very convincing and can easily fool your target fish. Made from durable ABS material, these lures include a built-in rattle that creates sound waves while swimming, increasing the chances of provoking fish to strike. Plus, the ultra-sharp treble hooks resist rust and corrosion, offering you strong, reliable hook-ups every time you fish.

What We Like
Realistic multi-jointed design
3D eyes with pearl coating
Built-in rattle for fish attraction
Sharp, corrosion-resistant hooks
#TOP 2

Rapala Bass Boom Box Lure Kit

Mixed
Mixed
Rapala Bass Boom Box Lure Kit Cover
Rapala Bass Boom Box, Curated Lure Selection, Seven Hand-Picked Bass Lures Plus Bonus Item

The Rapala Bass Boom Box offers anglers a carefully chosen set of seven bass lures plus an extra bonus item, featuring trusted brands like Rapala and Storm. This kit makes trying out new baits fun and exciting since each box contains a surprise mix of popular lures, helping you discover what works best for your fishing style. With a total value of $60, it’s a great gift for anyone looking to build or refresh their tackle collection. Packed with top seasonal picks, this set is designed to boost your chances of landing that big bass on your next fishing trip.

What We Like
Curated lure selection
Includes bonus item
Fun surprise assortment
Great gift value
#TOP 3

LUCKY CRAFT Flashminnow 110 (714 Metallic Sardine)

FM110-CIF-714MSD
One Size
LUCKY CRAFT Flashminnow 110 (714 Metallic Sardine) Cover
LUCKY CRAFT SW FlashMinnow 110, 714 Metallic Sardine, Saltwater Fishing Lures, Jerkbait Surf Fishing Gear, Halibut and Bass Lures, Suspending Topwater Lure

The LUCKY CRAFT Flashminnow 110 is a slow SUSPENDING fishing plug that measures 4-1/2"(110mm) in length and weighs 5/8oz(16.5g). It has a diving depth of 1-2ft(0.5m) and is equipped with VMC #6, #6, #6 hooks. This fishing plug is perfect for surf fishing due to its slow-suspending nature, which allows it to stay in the strike zone longer. The 4-1/2" length and 5/8oz weight make it easy to cast long distances, while the VMC hooks ensure a strong and secure hookset. Additionally, the 1-2ft depth range is ideal for targeting a variety of fish species that inhabit the surf zone. Overall, the LUCKY CRAFT Flashminnow 110 is a versatile and reliable fishing plug that is perfect for any angler looking to catch fish in the surf.

What We Like
Slow-suspending
Long casting distance
Strong hookset
#TOP 4

Skylety 6-Piece Fishing Practice Plugs

Skylety-181176
Orange
Skylety 6-Piece Fishing Practice Plugs Cover
6 Pieces Fishing Practice Plugs 6 Mixed Sizes Orange Bait Casting Practice Plug for Kids Improving Casting Skills (1/5oz, 1/4oz, 3/8oz, 2/5oz, 1/3oz, 3/4 oz)

The Skylety Fishing Practice Plugs come in six different weights, from 1/5 oz to 3/4 oz, allowing you to practice with various bait types. This versatility helps you enhance your casting skills in different settings. These plugs are designed for ease of use; simply attach them to your fishing line for effective practice. Their unique design reduces water resistance, making it easier for you to hit your target. Made from durable PVC, these plugs resist breaking and wear, ensuring they last through many practice sessions.

What We Like
Variety of weights
Easy to use
Durable PVC material
Reduces water resistance
#TOP 5

Abvsdu Fishing Practice Plugs Set

Orange
Abvsdu Fishing Practice Plugs Set Cover
Abvsdu 6 PCS Fishing Practice Plugs - 6 Mixed Sizes Orange Bait Casting Practice Plug, Suitable for Children to Improve Throwing Skills (1/5 oz, 1/4 oz, 3/8 oz, 2/5 oz, 1/3 oz, 3/4 oz)

The Abvsdu Fishing Practice Plugs set includes six different weights, allowing you to practice casting with versatility. This assortment is perfect for honing your skills in various environments. You can easily attach these plugs to your fishing line to practice both long-distance and precise casting, improving your accuracy. Made from durable PVC, these plugs resist damage and wear, ensuring they last through many practice sessions. With wear strips on the bottom, they protect surfaces from scratches, making them ideal for use in yards or playgrounds, especially for beginners.

What We Like
Variety of weights
Improves casting accuracy
Durable PVC construction
Scratch-resistant design
#TOP 6

Multi Jointed Fish Fishing Kits

3 Pack-Style 2
100cm
Multi Jointed Fish Fishing Kits Cover
Fishing Lures Multi Jointed Fish Fishing Kits, Slow Sinking Lifelike Swimbaits Crankbaits Hard Baits Lure Set, Fishing Gear for Bass Trout Pike Walleye, Freshwater Saltwater Predator Bait

This 3-pack of fishing lures is made of high-quality ABS material and has a realistic shape with freely moving joints and realistic eyes to deceive target fish. It is good for throwing with a stable posture in the air and strong applicability for different water conditions. The bait is equipped with two sharp, anti-rust hooks to prevent fish escape. It is suitable for both saltwater and freshwater and can be used to catch a variety of fish such as perch, walleye, trout, and salmon.

What We Like
Realistic shape with freely moving joints and realistic eyes
Good for throwing with a stable posture and strong applicability for different water conditions
Equipped with two sharp, anti-rust hooks to prevent fish escape
#TOP 7

Tigofly Stainless Steel 25mm Screws for Fishing Lures

Silver
Small
Tigofly Stainless Steel 25mm Screws for Fishing Lures Cover
Tigofly 100 pcs 1inch 25mm Screws Stainless Steel Plug Hardware Jerk Baits Lure Making DIY Fishing Lure

The Tigofly 25mm Lure Screws are lightweight hardware pieces designed for fishing lure making. Each screw weighs just 0.37 grams, making them easy to handle without adding unnecessary bulk to your lures. Measuring about 1 inch in length, these screws are perfect for securing parts in your fishing plugs. The screw thread diameter is around 1.6mm, which ensures a tight fit and reliable hold. Additionally, the eye inside diameter of approximately 3.2mm allows for easy attachment of hooks or other components, making your DIY lure projects more convenient and sturdy.

What We Like
Lightweight design
Standard 1-inch length
Secure screw thread
Eye diameter for easy attachment
#TOP 8

Bill Lewis Knock-N-Trap Lipless Crankbait

BLF-KRT46R
Red Crawfish
One Size
Bill Lewis Knock-N-Trap Lipless Crankbait Cover
Bill Lewis Lifelike Knock-N Trap 1/2 OZ. Lipless Crankbait Fishing Wobble Lure with Mustad Triple Grip Hooks, RED Crawfish

The Bill Lewis Knock-N-Trap is a powerful fishing lure designed to help you catch bigger fish in deeper waters. Its unique low-frequency knocking sound acts like a drumbeat, grabbing the attention of bass and other game fish, making them more likely to strike. The lure’s lively wiggling action keeps fish interested whether you’re fishing through grassy areas or deep water. Plus, it’s perfect for matching larger baitfish, helping you adjust to different fishing conditions with ease. With the Bill Lewis Knock-N-Trap, you’ll have a reliable tool to attract and catch more fish on your next trip.

What We Like
Low-frequency knocking sound
Highly energized wiggling action
Effective in deep water
Attracts largemouth bass
#TOP 9

Johnson Silver Minnow 1/2oz

Johnson
SM1/2-SLVR
Silver
One Size
Johnson Silver Minnow 1/2oz Cover
Johnson Silver Minnow 1/2oz. Silver

The Johnson Silver Minnow is a fishing lure designed to improve your casting and fishing experience. It features a metal weed guard that helps prevent snags, so you can fish smoothly in areas with vegetation. The brass blade is crafted to allow for long, accurate casts, giving you a better reach. This lure is plated with pure silver, which offers a brighter flash compared to standard chrome or brass spoons, making it more attractive to fish. Additionally, its 35-degree wobble moves side to side without twisting your line, ensuring steady action and better control while fishing.

What We Like
Metal weed guard
Long casting brass blade
Bright silver plating
Steady 35-degree wobble
#TOP 10

VOOGLASS 88PCS Fishing Lures Kit

88 Pcs
VOOGLASS 88PCS Fishing Lures Kit Cover
Fishing Lures Tackle Bait Kit Set - Comprehensive Fishing Lures Kit for Trout Bass Salmon - Includes Plastic Shrimp, Worm Bait, Spoon, and Crankbait Jigs (88PCS)

The VOOGLASS Fishing Lures Set offers you a wide variety of 88 lifelike lures that closely resemble real baitfish, making it easier to attract bass, trout, salmon, and other freshwater species. This kit is versatile enough for use in lakes, rivers, or ponds, so you can enjoy fishing in different environments. Made with durable plastic and metal, these lures are built to last through many fishing trips, saving you money and hassle. Plus, the set comes with a compact tackle box that helps you keep your lures organized and easy to carry, so you’re always ready for your next fishing adventure.

What We Like
Variety of lifelike lures
Versatile for multiple environments
Durable materials
Compact tackle box included
Buying Guide Image

Basic Information to Help You Figure out the Best Fishing Plugs

Introduction to Fishing Plugs

If you're an avid angler, you know that choosing the right fishing lure can be the difference between a successful day on the water and a frustrating one. Fishing plugs, also known as crankbaits or hardbaits, are an integral part of any angler's tackle box. These lures mimic the movement and appearance of live bait, making them an effective choice for catching a variety of fish species. But with so many different fishing plugs on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your needs. In this article, we'll cover the basics of fishing plugs and provide some tips on how to choose the best ones for your fishing style and the conditions you'll be fishing in.

Types of Fishing Plugs

Fishing plugs come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, each designed to mimic different types of bait and attract different species of fish. Some common types of fishing plugs include:

  • Minnow plugs: These lures have a slender, fish-like shape and are designed to mimic the movement of a minnow or other small baitfish. Minnow plugs are effective for catching a wide range of fish species, including bass, walleye, and pike.

  • Crawfish plugs: Crawfish plugs have a bulky, lobster-like shape and are typically used to target bass, pike, and other predatory fish that feed on crawfish in their natural habitat.

  • Frog plugs: Frog plugs are designed to mimic the appearance and movement of a frog or other amphibian. These lures are often used to target largemouth bass, which are known to feed on frogs in shallow water.

  • Topwater plugs: Topwater plugs float on the surface of the water and are designed to mimic the movement of insects, baitfish, or other prey that fish feed on at the water's surface. These lures are effective for catching a variety of fish species, including bass, pike, and muskie.

Choosing the Right Fishing Plug

When choosing a fishing plug, there are a few key factors to consider. These include:

  • The type of fish you're targeting: As we mentioned earlier, different fishing plugs are designed to mimic different types of bait and attract different species of fish. Consider the type of fish you're targeting and choose a fishing plug that is known to be effective for that species.

  • The type of water you'll be fishing in: Different fishing plugs are designed to be used in different types of water. For example, topwater plugs are best used in shallow water, while minnow plugs are effective in deeper water. Consider the type of water you'll be fishing in and choose a fishing plug that is designed for that environment.

  • The conditions you'll be fishing in: The weather and water conditions can have a big impact on the effectiveness of your fishing plug. For example, in cloudy or low-light conditions, brightly-colored fishing plugs are more visible to fish and may be more effective. In clearer water, natural-colored fishing plugs may be more effective. Consider the conditions you'll be fishing in and choose a fishing plug that is well-suited to those conditions.

Conclusion

Fishing plugs can be an effective choice for catching a variety of fish species. By considering the type of fish you're targeting, the type of water you'll be fishing in, and the conditions you'll be fishing in, you can choose the right fishing plug for your needs and increase your chances of success on the water. With the right fishing plug in your tackle box, you'll be well-equipped to land that trophy fish you've been after.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are plugs used for in fishing?

Plugs are lures used in fishing to imitate baitfish, frogs, and other prey. They come in different shapes and sizes, with the term 'minnow' used for long, slender lures, and 'plug' used for shorter, deeper-bodied lures. Plugs are designed to attract fish and can be used for both freshwater and offshore fishing.

2. Why do fish like cedar plugs?

Cedar plugs are popular for offshore fishing because they mimic small baitfish like mackerel, herring, or sardine. These plugs are often trolled behind a boat and can be rigged with a single hook or a tandem hook rig to increase the chances of getting a strike. The realistic appearance and movement of cedar plugs make them enticing to fish.

3. What is a trolling plug?

A trolling plug is a type of lure designed to imitate an injured baitfish. It has the right action and movement in the water to attract fish. Trolling plugs are commonly used while trolling, and it's essential to choose the right plug based on the conditions and fish species. The right action and presentation can make a significant difference in fishing success.

4. How fast do you troll plugs?

When trolling plugs, it is generally recommended to troll at a speed faster than when bait fishing. The optimal trolling speed for plugs is typically between 2.5 and 5.6 mph. Pay attention to the angle of your rigger line when you get a strike, as it can help you replicate the successful speed in future fishing attempts.

5. How do you tell how deep a lure will go?

You can estimate the diving depth of a lure by looking at the plastic lips on the front of the bait. Longer lips usually indicate a deeper diving depth, while shorter lips suggest a shallower diving depth. However, weighted baits like rattle baits may have different characteristics. Experimenting with different lure designs and retrieving techniques can help determine the effective diving depth.

6. What is the best wood for fishing plugs?

Different woods have different characteristics for fishing plugs. Softer woods like balsa, pine, cedar, white cedar, and basswood are lighter and have faster action, often floating. Harder woods like maple, oak, ash, and walnut are more challenging to shape but create suspending lures with tighter action. The choice of wood depends on the desired action, buoyancy, and fishing conditions.

7. How deep do plugs dive?

Plugs are versatile lures that can swim from just beneath the surface to depths exceeding 40 feet. They have a wobbling action and produce fish-attracting vibrations. The diving depth of a plug can vary depending on factors such as the design, weight, retrieval speed, and fishing conditions. Experimenting with different plugs and techniques can help determine the most effective diving depth.

Editor's Notes

During our fishing plug research, we found 24 fishing plug products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 57,656 customer reviews through our big data system to write the fishing plugs list. We found that most customers choose fishing plugs with an average price of $14.33.

The fishing plugs are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of fishing plugs, including TRUSCEND, Rapala, LUCKY CRAFT, Skylety, Abvsdu. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 513 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Paul Tilton Avatar

Paul Tilton is a fitness enthusiast. He doesn't like to work in front of a computer screen so he quit his job and runs a gym in Washington. He spent a lot of time on the road and has been a contributing writer for a well-known travel guide website. He is now happy to share his travel experience and professional knowledge of travel gear and fitness here.