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VIB Lure Fishing: A Beginner-Friendly Lure Type
VIB (Vibration) lures are one of the most suitable types of lures for beginners, whether for saltwater or freshwater fishing. However, it’s essential to understand the appropriate fishing environments for VIB lures and the concept of how to use them effectively. Once you have mastered the basics, you will find it easier to adapt and learn more advanced techniques.
VIB lures are sinking lures due to their weight, which makes them prone to getting snagged on the bottom, so they are not suitable for shallow waters. The operation techniques are the same for both saltwater and freshwater fishing, generally divided into two methods:
- Constant Speed Retrieval: This method is very simple, but be careful when you’re almost bringing the lure back in—if you’re too close to the shore, the lure might get stuck on the bottom. So, when you’re close to the shore, you should lift the rod tip to retrieve it safely.
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N-Shaped Retrieval: This includes the “bouncing bottom” technique, where the lure is let to fall and then retrieved in a jerking, upward motion.
Method 1: Steady Retrieval
If you observe a VIB closely, you’ll notice that its head has a slightly convex flat surface. This design principle allows the lure to move in a specific frequency. Each VIB has a different oscillation frequency due to manufacturing differences. Only by retrieving it at a certain speed will you know the best action for each specific VIB. Therefore, it’s important to test the water and remember the speed that makes it vibrate effectively. You can also feel the vibration transmitted through the rod to gauge this. The key to using a VIB is to understand its sinking speed, as it is a sinking lure heavier than water. Knowing its sinking speed helps with determining the depth at which it stays in the water, a crucial technique to prevent missing bites.
VIB is also effective for targeting fish hiding near larger underwater structures, such as pilings in saltwater. For example, you can cast the lure behind a piling and let it sink to the middle layer. But be cautious of the current to avoid getting the lure stuck on the piling. Once it has sunk to your desired depth, retrieve it next to the piling where fish, like sea bass, are often waiting to strike.
Method 2: N-Shaped Retrieval
When you’re unsure of the water depth or the fish’s location, the second method comes in handy. It’s straightforward: cast the VIB, let it sink to the bottom, then raise the rod tip to retrieve the lure, followed by lowering the rod tip to let it sink again. This repeated motion creates an N-shaped pattern and is one of the most commonly used techniques to locate fish.
Advantages of VIB Lures:
When compared to other lures, the main advantage of a VIB is its simple back-and-forth vibration. This easy technique makes it highly effective at attracting fish. It’s a lure that is simple for beginners to handle and is aggressive and enticing, making it a great choice for newcomers to fishing.