Whether you’re new to fishing or an experienced angler, the question of what kind and how many lures you need seems never ending. More is better, but when taken to the extreme can create chaos for your tackle box, boat and garage … not to mention your budget.

There are so many options out there, the choices can be overwhelming. You can, however, achieve the versatility you need with a limited number of lures. Here are our recommendations for top lures to get the most out of your time on the Alabama Bass Trail. These options will outfit you well for the variety of habitat and species you’ll find along the trail.

  1. Jig – the undisputed king of year-round versatility for temperature, cover and depth variations.
  2. Crankbait – size variations offer seasonal tweaking, but these offer versatility year-round.
  3. Swimbaits – these offer outstanding shad imitations that will draw in the bass.
  4. Jerkbaits – known for summer success, these really are effective all-weather baits.
  5. Worms – with such variety in shapes and colors, anglers applying their special techniques in rigging them and working them, plastic worms are hard to beat.

With these options at the ready, you can rest assured you’re prepared to take on the adventure the Alabama Bass Trail has to offer.