Zander Soft Baits

Zander soft baits represent the absolute foundation of modern lure fishing. In this category, we have gathered the most successful Japanese models, which stand out with their refined shapes, perfect action, and strong scents for the highest possible number of converted bites.

When choosing, focus primarily on the body shape and the type of generated vibrations. Classic paddletails and swimbaits produce strong water displacement during the retrieve, while craw imitations can provoke passive fish on the bottom. The correct choice of silhouette and action is the decisive factor for success.

Shads and swimbaits

• O.S.P DoLive Shad – our long-term favorite lure, which stands out with its unique active wobbling on a free fall. Bites very often occur during the fall to the bottom itself.
• Keitech Easy Shiner – the slim asymmetrical body delivers a smooth action with a subtle body roll. The best-selling all-rounder that works reliably even on a very slow retrieve.
• Keitech FAT Swing Impact – the bulky ribbed body creates a wide and strong swimbait action. The distinctive vibrations reliably attract predators even from a greater distance.
• Sawamura One Up Shad – the functionally divided body ensures a pronounced rolling action and strong vibrations. The softer but flexible material tends to stretch during the hookset, which extends its overall lifespan.

Craw imitations for technical bottom fishing

• O.S.P DoLive Craw – a detailed craw imitation where the appendages move subtly even when resting on the bottom. An exceptionally provocative detail for cautious zander and perch.
• Keitech Crazy Flapper – an action-packed model designed for fishing in heavy cover and dense vegetation. The large claws instantly start working even on the most subtle fall.

Soft Jerkbaits and Curly Tails

• Deps Sakamata Shad – a realistic soft jerkbait for mid-water fishing. The aerodynamic body with side keels creates an unpredictable darting movement from side to side when twitched, which reliably triggers reaction strikes.
• Sawamura One Up Curly – a hollow body made of firmer plastic with a thin sickle tail that works with a large side-to-side amplitude. Very easy to retrieve throughout the entire water column.

Tip: For classic zander fishing, we recommend choosing lure sizes from 3.5 to 5 inches; when specifically targeting trophy fish, don't be afraid to reach for 6" and larger models. Natural shades work best in clear water, while in murky water, bright colors – green, yellow, orange, and their combinations – have proven extremely successful for us. Rather than owning countless shades, it is much more effective to choose a few proven colors and have them available in different models and sizes.