Live bait — especially worms — are choice options for shellcracker fishing in cold weather. One reason is because the worms wiggle around on the hook, drawing attention to themselves. Artificial lures can also work, and some anglers find that fishing with them makes it more enjoyable, and at the very least gives the angler a more active role.
Lures such as Beetle Spins and Mepps spinners can be deadly on these fish when reeled through their feeding grounds. When paired with ultralight rods, reels and light line, shellcracker fishing turns into a whole new ballgame. It turns into something akin to bass fishing, with anglers feeling more direct contact as the fish smacks a lure cruising past, then feeling the fish through the strong but flimsy rods paired with tiny reels.
Ultralight line adds to the experience. Small diameter braided lines distribute the slightest touches directly to the angler, and braids like Berkeley’s Nanofil in 6-pound test is equivalent to 1-pound mono in terms of diameter, but is considerably stronger. This adds casting distance and gives anglers the ability to feel the slightest bites, as well as feeling whatever structure the lure swims through.
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