Fishing for zander using lures has gained popularity among anglers in the UK, yet many still find it challenging to land one. With the right strategies in place, you can enhance your chances of catching these elusive predatory fish. Former National Angling Awards Lure Angler, Luke Jordan, shares valuable insights into maximizing your lure fishing experience this season.
"I spend a lot of time fishing on the Gloucester Canal during predator season," said Jordan. He focuses his efforts on the canal, especially when river conditions are less than ideal due to flooding. Concentrating on a specific spot allows him to learn about the water and the habits of the fish. "When approaching the canal, I always try to locate the baitfish along with the shoals of bream."
"I spend a lot of time fishing on the Gloucester Canal during predator season,"
According to Jordan, timing is crucial when targeting zander. "When the water is clear, I find the feeding window can be very short. The zander tend to feed briefly around first light and then again as it gets dark," he explained. However, colored water can change the game, providing opportunities to catch zander throughout the day.
Lure selection is another critical component in increasing your chances of a successful catch. Jordan prefers using a Westin Shadteez, ranging between 12 to 16 cm. “These baits usually attract the bigger fish,” he noted. He also tailors his color choice based on visibility. When visibility is poor, he opts for bright or dark lures. Overall, when visibility is above four inches, natural-colored baits become his go-to.
However, he stressed that color selection is often straightforward compared to choosing the right weight for the jighead. “For a reaction strike setup, I use a 12 cm Westin Shadteez with a 17-gram jighead, a 9 cm stinger, and a wire trace.” The right weight can make all the difference in how fish respond to lures.
Technique is vital when lure fishing. Many anglers begin by assessing depth and wind strength but might overlook adjusting the jighead's weight based on the day's conditions. Jordan elaborated, “Some days, I catch fish on a 7-gram jighead, while on other days, I might use a 17-gram jighead.” Understanding how zander react to lure movement is vital, as sometimes fish will only respond if the lure is presented at a specific speed.
Jordan often employs a tactic of fishing for reaction strikes, particularly during off-peak feeding times. “When the water is clear and it’s the middle of the day, I often start fishing for a reaction strike with a heavy jighead,” he added, a method he finds effective in enticing bites when fish are more reluctant to feed.
When it comes to tackle, Jordan emphasizes the use of fluorocarbon for its stealthy approach, although he suggests a wire trace when fishing with a stinger during reaction strikes to minimize hesitation from the fish. "The lure moves so quickly that the fish has no time to hesitate," he noted.
"The lure moves so quickly that the fish has no time to hesitate,"
His favorite setup for canal zander fishing consists of a Westin W6 T&C 7'1" rod, rated 7-21g, paired with a Shimano Vanford 2000 spinning reel. This combination, spooled with Westin W6 16 lb braid, provides him with the necessary sensitivity and strength for effective lure fishing.
In conclusion, zander fishing with lures can be an exhilarating experience for anglers willing to put in the time and effort. With expert advice from seasoned anglers like Jordan, understanding the importance of location, lure choice, fishing technique, and tackle will significantly enhance your fishing experience. These strategies will not only help you catch more zander but also deepen your appreciation for the sport.
