Finding the best fishing lures Australia has to offer is not about buying the most expensive option. A good lure needs the right swimming action, running depth, strength and reliability for the fish and conditions you are targeting.
After more than 40 years of fishing and working in the tackle industry, I have seen which lures consistently perform. Below are lures I use, have tested or confidently recommend, along with practical advice on where to fish them and any changes worth making before they hit the water.
Best Fishing Lures Australia: How I Choose Them
I choose a lure by matching its size, running depth and action to the baitfish, water depth and species I am targeting. I also inspect the hooks and split rings because even an expensive lure may need stronger hardware when used for Mackerel, Trevally and other powerful Australian fish.
Always test a lure beside the boat before fishing it. Make sure it swims straight and remains stable at the retrieve or trolling speed you intend to use.
Matching Fishing Lures to Australian Conditions
Australian lure fishing covers everything from shallow estuaries and freshwater impoundments to rocky headlands, tropical rivers and deep offshore reefs. The best fishing lures Australia has available will still only work properly when their size, action and running depth suit the water being fished.
In shallow water, surface walkers and shallow-running minnows let you cover feeding areas without constantly fouling the bottom. Around channels, drop-offs and deeper structure, soft vibes and weighted soft plastics can be counted down until they reach the depth where fish are holding. For trolling, select a lure that remains stable at your intended speed and reaches the required section of the water column.
Lure strength also matters. Mackerel, trevally, mulloway and other powerful fish can straighten light hooks or damage weak split rings. I inspect the hardware before using any new lure and upgrade it when necessary, while making sure heavier hooks do not ruin the lure’s balance or swimming action. Test every lure beside the boat or along the bank before casting it into the strike zone. It should swim straight, remain stable and respond properly at the speed you plan to fish it. This simple check prevents wasted casts and gives every lure the best chance to perform properly.
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Learn More About Choosing Fishing Lures
Price alone does not determine whether a lure will catch fish. Read my complete guide to cheap and expensive fishing lures to learn about swimming action, quality control, hooks, split rings and when paying extra is worthwhile.
Are Expensive Fishing Lures Worth the Money?
A high price does not guarantee that a lure will catch more fish. Read my comparison of cheap and expensive fishing lures to learn when premium models are worth buying, when budget lures make more sense and what should be checked before either one goes into your tackle box.
If you are choosing lures for trolling or casting at Spanish and spotted Mackerel, visit my Mackerel Fishing Gear page for the complete equipment selection.
My Recommendation Policy
I do not recommend a fishing lure simply because it is expensive or pays a commission. Products are selected according to the job they perform, their swimming action, reliability, hardware and value. Where a lure has a weakness or needs upgraded hooks or split rings, I will point that out.