Top 7 Must-Have Lures for Aussie Waters
Australia’s diverse waters are teeming with species that range from freshwater bass to saltwater barramundi and everything in between. Whether you’re casting off the coast or flicking lures in a river, the right lure can make all the difference between a slow day and a full esky.
Here’s our expert-curated list of the Top 7 Must-Have Lures that every angler—beginner or pro—should have in their tackle box when fishing in Aussie waters.
1. Soft Plastic Paddle Tail Lures
Best For: Flathead, Bream, Bass, Snapper
Why They Work:
These lures mimic baitfish with a lifelike swimming motion thanks to their paddle-shaped tail. They’re incredibly versatile and can be rigged weedless, weighted, or unweighted depending on the water conditions.
Where to Use Them:
Estuaries, mangroves, rivers, and even inshore reef systems.
Hot Tip:
Use a 1/8 oz jighead for shallow water or a heavier 3/8 oz for deeper drop-offs.
2. Hardbody Minnow Lures
Best For: Barramundi, Mangrove Jack, Tailor
Why They Work:
These lures imitate small fish and can be used at various depths depending on their design (floating, sinking, or suspending). Their built-in rattle and erratic action make them irresistible to ambush predators.
Where to Use Them:
Creeks, river mouths, and near submerged structures.
Hot Tip:
Pause during retrieval—many strikes occur on the stop.
3. Metal Spoons
Best For: Australian Salmon, Tuna, Tailor, Trevally
Why They Work:
Metal spoons are ideal for fast-moving pelagic fish. They mimic the flash and movement of baitfish and can be cast long distances, making them great for surf, rocks, or offshore.
Where to Use Them:
Beach fishing, boat casting, or rock platforms.
Hot Tip:
Use a fast, erratic retrieve to simulate a fleeing baitfish.
4. Surface Poppers
Best For: GT (Giant Trevally), Barramundi, Murray Cod
Why They Work:
These topwater lures create a splashy disturbance that triggers aggressive surface strikes. They’re thrilling to use because the action happens in plain view.
Where to Use Them:
Calm mornings on rivers, lakes, and reef edges.
Hot Tip:
Work the lure in short jerks and pause—watch the water explode.
5. Vibe Lures (Soft & Hard)
Best For: Bream, Flathead, Snapper, Mulloway
Why They Work:
Vibes vibrate through the water column, attracting fish via sound and motion. They’re effective in both deep and shallow water and work well when bounced off the bottom.
Where to Use Them:
Drop-offs, boat harbors, bridges, and structure-rich areas.
Hot Tip:
Let it hit the bottom, then lift sharply and drop again—classic “yo-yo” technique.
6. Spinnerbaits
Best For: Australian Bass, Golden Perch, Murray Cod
Why They Work:
Spinnerbaits feature a spinning blade that flashes and vibrates, making them excellent for murky or stained water. They're particularly deadly in freshwater environments.
Where to Use Them:
Inland rivers, lakes, and weedy freshwater zones.
Hot Tip:
Use slow retrieves near structure—bass love ambushing from cover.
7. Prawn/Crustacean Imitation Lures
Best For: Estuary Species – Bream, Flathead, Mangrove Jack
Why They Work:
Many Aussie estuary predators feed on prawns. These realistic soft plastics or hardbodies mimic the natural movement of prawns, especially when fished slowly.
Where to Use Them:
Creek mouths, mangroves, oyster racks, and tidal zones.
Hot Tip:
Use subtle twitches of the rod tip to mimic a prawn's darting action.
🧠 Final Thoughts: Build Your Lure Arsenal Smart
You don’t need hundreds of lures—just a smart selection that covers different:
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Depths (surface, mid-water, bottom)
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Species (freshwater vs saltwater)
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Conditions (murky vs clear, calm vs rough)
The seven listed above are proven across Australia in nearly every condition. Start with those, master their techniques, and build up from there.
✅ Bonus Tips:
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Match lure size and color to the local baitfish or environment.
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Use fluorocarbon leader for more stealth in clear water.
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Clean lures after saltwater use to prevent rust and extend lifespan.
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