Best Fishing Soft Plastic Lures of 2026

Paul Tilton Avatar
Paul Tilton
Last Updated: Jan 18, 2026

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Fishing soft plastic lures are a popular choice among anglers for their versatility and effectiveness in attracting a variety of fish species. Made from durable, flexible materials, these lures mimic the look and movement of live bait, making them a go-to option for both freshwater and saltwater fishing. Available in a range of colors, shapes, and sizes, soft plastic lures can be rigged in different ways to suit different fishing techniques and conditions. Whether fishing for bass, trout, or redfish, anglers can rely on soft plastic lures to help them land their next catch.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Catch Co Mystery Tackle Box PRO Bass Kit Cover #TOP 1
Catch Co Mystery Tackle Box PRO Bass Kit
ftb score rating icon 9.8
TRUSCEND Fishing Lures for Bass Trout Cover #TOP 2
TRUSCEND Fishing Lures for Bass Trout
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Yamamoto 9-10-297 Senko Cover #TOP 3
Yamamoto 9-10-297 Senko
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Fishing Soft Plastic Lures

Catch Co Mystery Tackle Box PRO Bass Kit

Standard
Catch Co Mystery Tackle Box PRO Bass Kit Cover
Catch Co Mystery Tackle Box PRO Bass Fishing Kit | Freshwater Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass Lures

The Catch Co Bass PRO Box is packed with top-quality fishing gear designed specifically for freshwater bass enthusiasts. Inside, you'll find a variety of lures including hardbaits, jigs, spinnerbaits, and soft plastics, giving you a great selection to attract bass in different conditions. The box also features exclusive and limited-edition items, so you get unique gear not available elsewhere. Along with the tackle, the box provides expert tips and instructions to help you learn new fishing techniques and improve your skills. This makes it a handy all-in-one kit for anyone looking to catch more bass and enjoy their time on the water.

What We Like
Good value for money
Wide variety of lures
High quality components
Great gift option
Appealing packaging design
What We Don't Like
Could include more new lures
Box size smaller than expected

TRUSCEND Fishing Lures for Bass Trout

3.5",0.45oz
3.5in (9cm)
TRUSCEND Fishing Lures for Bass Trout Cover
TRUSCEND Fishing Lures for Bass Trout Jighead Lures Paddle Tail Swimbaits Soft Fishing Baits Freshwater Saltwater Jigging Bass Gear Gifts for Men

TRUSCEND Fishing Lures for Bass Trout Jighead Lures Paddle Tail Swimbaits Soft Fishing Baits are designed with Japan material and are the perfect size at 3.5in. These lures are suitable for multiple hits in freshwater and saltwater, targeting bass, trout, Walleye, pike snook, salmon, redfish and many more. The lures feature a special 3D paddle tail, ultra-realistic patterns, life-like halographic eyes, solid wire through construction, and ultra-sharp BKK back hook. The Top Hook protects against hangups and its weedless nature enables you to fish it well through all types of cover.

What We Like
Realistic swimming action
Attracts multiple fish species
Sharp, quality hooks
Good color and weight variety
Effective in fresh and saltwater
What We Don't Like
Durability could be improved
Price slightly high for some
#TOP 3

Yamamoto 9-10-297 Senko

YAM-9-10-297
5 Inch
Yamamoto 9-10-297 Senko Cover
Yamamoto 5" SENKO GREEN PUMPKIN W/ LARGE BLACK FLAKE (10 PACK)

The Yamamoto 9-10-297 Senko is a 5-inch fishing hook made of plastic, with a package weight of 0.022 pounds. It is a popular choice for bass fishing, as it is known to be highly effective. Customers have noted that it is a bit fragile, so using o-rings or shrink tube for extra durability is recommended. It is also a great choice for fishing with children, as it is known to be a reliable bait.

What We Like
Effective for bass fishing
Durable and long-lasting
Wide color selection
Easy to use
Great value on Amazon
What We Don't Like
Bait slips off hook easily
Sometimes not genuine brand

Berkley PowerBait Floating Mice Tails

PBHFMT3-WBG
White/Bubblegum
Berkley PowerBait Floating Mice Tails Cover
Berkley PowerBait Floating Mice Tails Fishing Bait, White/Bubblegum, 3in | 8cm, Irresistible Scent & Flavor, Lifelike Presentation, Ideal for Trout, Bluegill, Crappie, Perch and More

The Berkley PowerBait Floating Mice Tails, also known as Berkley Floating Mice Tails, are a must-have for any fishing enthusiast. These 3-inch lures combine the irresistible scents of salmon egg and trout worm into one incredible bait. The unique shape of the Floating Mice Tails replicates the "Power Mouse" rig, making it perfect for targeting trout. With different head and tail colors, these lures offer maximum contrast in the water column, increasing their visibility and attracting more fish. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced angler, the Berkley Floating Mice Tails will enhance your fishing experience and help you catch more fish.

What We Like
Effective for trout and bass
Unique colors and scent
Floating design attracts fish
Durable and long-lasting
Fun for beginners and kids
What We Don't Like
Somewhat expensive
Occasionally short bait lifespan
#TOP 5

Shakespeare Customize-It Bait Kit

Shakespeare
PAINTYOUROWNBAIT
Clear
Varied
Shakespeare Customize-It Bait Kit Cover
Shakespeare Customize-It Bait Kit, Paint-Your-Own Fishing Lures for Kids, Clear Construction for Easy Customization, 3 Fish-Catching Shapes, Easy and Safe for Beginners

The Shakespeare Custom Bait Kit is a fun and creative way for kids to get involved in fishing. It offers clear lures that serve as a blank canvas, allowing you to personalize them with your own colors and designs using markers or paint pens. The kit includes three different fish-shaped lures, making it versatile enough for various types of fish and water conditions. Plus, it’s designed with safety in mind, featuring hook covers that protect kids during the crafting process. This makes it a perfect beginner-friendly fishing kit that combines creativity and safety for young anglers.

What We Like
Fun craft for kids
Encourages creativity
Good gift idea
Durable and usable for fishing
Good value
What We Don't Like
No paint pens included
Slightly expensive

Berkley PowerBait Power Honey Worm Natural Soft Plastic Lure

EBPHWN
Natural
Berkley PowerBait Power Honey Worm Natural Soft Plastic Lure Cover
Berkley PowerBait Power Honey Worm Fishing Bait, Natural, 1in, Irresistible Scent & Flavor, Realistic Profile, Ideal for Bluegill, Crappie, Perch and More

Berkley PowerBait Power Honey Worm Natural Soft Plastic Lure is formulated for all panfish species and emulates insect larvae on which many fish feed. This 1-inch long lure is great for ice fishing and open water bobber fishing for trout and panfish. The natural color of the lure can attract fish.

What We Like
Effective alternative to live bait
Convenient, resealable packaging
Clean and easy to use
Works well in various water clarity
Great value for the quantity
What We Don't Like
Durability could be better
Can fall off hook occasionally
#TOP 7

Berkley PowerBait Power Nightcrawler, 6" Soft Plastic Lures

PBBPNC6-NAT
Natural
6" (13 Count)
Berkley PowerBait Power Nightcrawler, 6" Soft Plastic Lures Cover
Berkley PowerBait Power Nightcrawler Natural, 6" (13 Count)

Berkley PowerBait Power Nightcrawler is a soft plastic lure that is great for trolling on spinner rigs. It looks, feels and smells like a live night crawler, making it an irresistible bait for fish. The exclusive walleye PowerBait scent and flavor enhanced formula is specifically designed to attract fish, increasing your chances of catching them.

What We Like
Durable and long-lasting
Realistic appearance
Effective for multiple fish species
Convenient and saves time
Good value for money
What We Don't Like
Strong unpleasant odor
Packaging may leak

Berkley Gulp! Alive! Minnow Soft Bait

GAJMI1-GRSH
Green Shiner
1in - Jar
Berkley Gulp! Alive! Minnow Soft Bait Cover
Berkley Gulp! Alive! Minnow Fishing Bait, Green Shiner, 1in, Extreme Scent Dispersion, Realistic Minnow Profile, Ideal for Bass, Trout, Walleye, Panfish and More

The Berkley Gulp! Minnow offers anglers a lifelike fishing bait that mimics the scent, taste, and feel of real minnows, helping you catch more fish with ease. Its strong attractant scent spreads widely in the water, increasing your chances of drawing in fish from a larger area. When the scent fades, simply put the bait back in the jar to refresh it, making it reusable and convenient. Plus, with its natural green shiner color and realistic size, this bait matches what fish naturally feed on, allowing you to adapt to different fishing conditions and target multiple species like bass, trout, and panfish effectively.

What We Like
High catch rate
Long-lasting scent
Realistic minnow action
Works for various fish
Easy to use
What We Don't Like
Packaging size confusion
Slightly higher price
#TOP 9

FishBites Fish'n Strips Shrimp

Pink
Medium
FishBites Fish'n Strips Shrimp Cover
FishBites Fish'n Strips - Shrimp (Pink)

The FishBites Shrimp Strips are designed to fit perfectly on 2/0 or 3/0 hooks, making it easy for you to rig your bait just right. These strips hold firmly on the hook, so you don’t have to worry about losing bait during casting or fighting fish. Their unique pennant shape works great when used as a tip on jigs, adding extra attraction to your lure. Plus, the scent is water-activated, meaning it releases in the water rather than on your hands, keeping your fingers clean while still drawing fish in effectively.

What We Like
Long-lasting bait strips
Durable mesh design
Attracts multiple fish species
Convenient, low odor
Works in saltwater and surf
What We Don't Like
Mesh difficult to remove
Occasional product dryness

Trout Magnet TNT 82-Piece Fishing Kit

19119
70 bodies, 12 Hooks
One Size
Trout Magnet TNT 82-Piece Fishing Kit Cover
Trout Magnet TNT Kit – 82-Piece Set with 70 Soft Plastic Bodies & 12 Jig Heads – Top 7 Hot Colors – Includes 1/64oz Shad-Dart Heads in Gold, Black, Silver & Chartreuse – Ultimate Trout Fishing Lure

The Trout Magnet TNT Kit is a versatile fishing set designed to help you catch trout and many other freshwater species like bass, panfish, and crappie. Its unique horizontal fall in the water mimics natural movement better than typical jigs, increasing your chances of a successful catch. The kit is compact enough to fit comfortably in your pocket or fishing vest, making it easy to carry and use wherever you fish. Made in the USA with durable, vibrant soft plastics, this kit offers long-lasting performance and bright colors that won’t tear easily, ensuring you get great value and reliable gear every time you go fishing.

What We Like
Effective fish-catching performance
Works on multiple species
Strong results for beginners
Popular among panfish and bass
What We Don't Like
Packaging not as advertised
Mixed results without color testing
Buying Guide Image

Get the Best Fishing Soft Plastic Lures

Introduction to Soft Plastic Lures

Fishing with soft plastic lures is a popular technique among anglers due to their versatility and effectiveness in attracting fish. These lures mimic the movements and appearance of live bait, making them an attractive option for finicky fish. However, with so many different types and styles of soft plastic lures on the market, choosing the right ones for your fishing situation can be a daunting task. In this article, we will provide some tips and guidelines to help you select the best soft plastic lures for your fishing needs.

Consider the Type of Fish You Are Targeting

The first step in choosing the right soft plastic lures is to consider the type of fish you are targeting. Different species of fish have their own preferences for bait, so it's important to select lures that mimic the appearance and movements of their natural prey. For example, if you are targeting largemouth bass, choose lures that resemble the crayfish and other creatures that bass typically feed on. If you are fishing for panfish, select small, slender lures that mimic the appearance of worms and other insects.

Choose the Right Size and Shape

The size and shape of your soft plastic lures should also be considered when selecting the right ones for your fishing situation. In general, smaller lures are better for targeting smaller fish, while larger lures are more effective for catching larger fish. The shape of the lure is also important, as it can affect how the lure moves through the water and how it is perceived by the fish. For example, a slender, wavy-tailed lure may be more effective in imitating the movements of a live worm, while a thicker, more compact lure may be better for imitating the movements of a crayfish.

Consider the Water Conditions and Presentation

The water conditions and presentation of your soft plastic lures can also play a role in their effectiveness. In clear, calm water, natural-looking lures with subtle movements may be more effective at attracting fish. In murky or fast-moving water, however, more pronounced movements and bright colors may be necessary to attract the fish's attention. Additionally, the way you present the lure can also affect its effectiveness. For example, a slow, steady retrieve may be more effective for imitating the movements of a live worm, while a faster, more erratic retrieve may be better for imitating the movements of a fleeing baitfish.

Experiment with Different Lures and Techniques

Finally, it's important to remember that there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to choosing the right soft plastic lures. The best way to determine which lures and techniques are most effective for your fishing situation is to experiment with different options and see what works best. Don't be afraid to try new lures and techniques, and be prepared to adapt and adjust based on the conditions and the behavior of the fish. With some trial and error, you can find the perfect soft plastic lures for your fishing needs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right soft plastic lures for your fishing situation can make a big difference in your success as an angler. By considering the type of fish you are targeting, the size and shape of the lures, the water conditions and presentation, and experimenting with different options, you can select the lures that are most effective for your fishing needs. With the right soft plastic lures, you can improve your chances of catching more and bigger fish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What fish eat soft plastic lures?

Soft plastic lures are versatile and can be used in various fishing scenarios. They are commonly used in saltwater fishing and are effective in catching fish like snapper, bream, flathead, and jewfish.

2. What fish are attracted to soft plastics?

Soft plastic lures attract a wide range of predatory fish. They are popular among bass fishermen and are known to catch largemouth bass, tarpon, snook, redfish, and speckled trout.

3. Are soft plastic baits good for fishing?

Soft plastic baits are highly effective for fishing, regardless of the type of fishing you're doing. They are versatile and can be rigged in different ways, allowing you to target various fish species.

4. What Colour soft plastics to use?

The choice of color for soft plastic lures depends on the fishing conditions. Natural and dark colors like black or June bug are effective, while natural and brighter colors like Watermelon seed and Pumpkin Pepper work well. For partly cloudy days, colors like Watermelon seed/red flake, Goby, or Smoke are recommended. In stained water, less natural colors should be used.

5. Do you use a swivel with soft plastics?

No, you do not typically use a swivel with soft plastics. Soft plastics track straight, so a swivel is unnecessary. Instead, tying a loop knot provides the lure with the perfect action.

6. Do you use sinkers with soft plastics?

The use of sinkers with soft plastic lures depends on the fishing scenario. In certain situations, adding a sinker to a soft plastic worm, lizard, or crayfish can turn your rig into a Texas or Carolina rig, increasing your chances of catching big bass.

Editor's Notes

During our fishing soft plastic lure research, we found 24 fishing soft plastic lure products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 108,801 customer reviews through our big data system to write the fishing soft plastic lures list. We found that most customers choose fishing soft plastic lures with an average price of $9.24.

The fishing soft plastic lures are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of fishing soft plastic lures, including Catch Co, TRUSCEND, Yamamoto, Berkley, Shakespeare. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 94 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.

Fishing Soft Plastic Lures Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Catch Co TRUSCEND Yamamoto Berkley Shakespeare Berkley Berkley Berkley FishBites Trout Magnet
Material Plastic Plastic Blend Monofilament Plastic Metal Metal Plastic Plastic Plastic
Color - 3.5",0.45oz Green Pumpkin Pepper White/Bubblegum Clear Natural Natural Green Shiner Pink 70 bodies, 12 Hooks
Size - 3.5in (9cm) 5 Inch 3" Varied 1" 6" (13 Count) 1in - Jar Medium One Size
Item Weight - 0.45 Ounces 10 Grams 0.01 Kilograms 0.02 Pounds 23.91 Pounds 0.02 Pounds 0.1 Kilograms 27.22 g 0.07 Kilograms
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.7
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