6 Best Square Bill Crankbaits 2023

I know how important it is to have the right lures in your tackle box. When it comes to targeting shallow-water fish, square-bill crankbaits are one of the most effective options out there.

In this guide, I’ll provide you with some insights on some of the best square bill crankbaits on the market, including my personal experience with the following lures:

Table of Contents

Best Square Bill Crankbaits

1. Bass Pro Shops XPS Square Bill Crankbait

I recently had the pleasure of trying out the Bass Pro Shops XPS Square Bill Crankbait, and I have to say, I was pretty impressed! This little lure really packs a punch.

One of the things I loved about it was the wide wobble it creates when retrieved. It’s perfect for crawling across the surface of the water as wake bait or for ripping it through submerged weed beds. The versatility of this lure really gives you a lot of options when you’re out on the water.

But what really sets the XPS Square Bill apart from other lures I’ve used is the square bill itself. It consistently deflects off cover, making it perfect for fishing in and around structures like logs and rocks. And with multiple color options to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect one for your fishing needs.

I would definitely recommend giving the Bass Pro Shops XPS Square Bill Crankbait a try. It’s a great addition to any angler’s tackle box and could be the ticket to tournament success!

2. Berkley Dredger Crankbait

As someone who fishes and has used the Berkley Dredger Crankbait, I can confirm that it has a great ability to dive and is very effective at catching fish. This lure is designed to dive deeper and faster than any other bait in your crankbait collection, making it a go-to option for targeting fish in deeper waters.

One of the things that sets the Berkley Dredger apart from other deep-diving crankbaits is its smaller size. Even though this lure is small, it is still easy to cast and won’t make you tired during long days of fishing. And with sizes ranging up to 3-1/4″, you can choose the perfect size to match your fishing situation and the depth you want to target.

But what really sets the Berkley Dredger apart is its tight, subtle action that’s proven to be so deadly down deep. The lure exhibits an agonizingly slow rise on the pause, which can be just the trigger you need to get a strike from even the most finicky fish. When you use the lure that has premium Fusion19 hooks, you can be sure that you’ll have a strong grip on your target once you catch it.

The Berkley Dredger Crankbait is a must-have in any angler’s tackle box, especially if you’re targeting fish in deeper waters. Its small profile, ease of use, and deadly action make it a top performer that you can rely on to catch more fish and have more success on the water. Give it a try and see the results for yourself!

3. Strike King KVD Square Bill Silent Crankbait

I have tried out a lot of lures in my time, but few have impressed me as much as the Strike King KVD Square Bill Silent Crankbait. This lure was clearly designed with the needs of serious anglers in mind, and it has everything you need to make a successful catch.

First of all, the silent design of this crankbait is a real game-changer. With no internal rattles to scare off fish, you can approach even the most skittish and pressured targets with confidence. This makes it an ideal choice for anyone who wants to fish in shallow waters, where fish are often more sensitive to noise and other disturbances.

Another thing I love about the Strike King KVD Square Bill Silent Crankbait is the way it bounces and deflects off cover. This design feature makes it incredibly effective at attracting fish and keeping them interested. And thanks to the square bill, the lure has an erratic, wandering action that can be hard for fish to resist.

Of course, it’s worth noting that this lure was specifically designed to the exact specifications of four-time Bassmaster Classic champ Kevin VanDam. And after using it myself, I can see why it helped him win the 2011 tournament. The lure is simply a tournament-proven performer that any serious angler would be wise to add to their tackle box.

The Strike King KVD Square Bill Silent Crankbait is a highly recommended lure for anyone who wants to up their fishing game. With its silent design, square bill, and erratic action, it’s a lure that is sure to bring in some impressive catches.

4. Strike King KVD Rattling Squarebill Crankbait

Let me tell you about my recent experience with the Strike King KVD Rattling Squarebill Crankbait. This overbuilt chunk of a lure is truly a scrumptious bass treat, and it’s perfect for those who want to catch a variety of fish species.

The lure rumbles down to a depth of 3′-6′, making it ideal for a do-it-all cranker. Its square lip design prevents most snags, which is a huge relief when fishing in cover. Trust me, the last thing you want is to lose your lure in the weeds or rocks.

What I really appreciate about the Strike King KVD Rattling Squarebill Crankbait is the range of colors available. There’s a perfect color scheme for every fishing condition, and the quality of the paint job is exceptional. The fish can’t resist the lifelike colors and patterns, and I’ve caught more than my fair share of fish thanks to this lure.

One of the things that really sets Strike King apart is the company’s commitment to innovation and quality. They have a long history of producing some of the best fishing lures on the market, and the KVD Rattling Squarebill Crankbait is no exception. With this lure tied on, catching fish has been a whole lot easier, and I can’t wait to try it out in different conditions.

If you’re looking for a reliable and effective crankbait for bass fishing, the Strike King KVD Rattling Squarebill Crankbait is a fantastic lure that produces results, and it’s definitely worth adding to your tackle box.

Check our Selecting for The: Top 5 Best Deep Diving Crankbaits for Bass Fishing

5. Lucky Craft Square Bill Crankbait

I was thoroughly impressed when I tried the Lucky Craft Square Bill Crankbait for the last time. I have used many different types of baits, but this one stood out to me for a few reasons.

The fact that it is made entirely of plastic makes it much more durable than traditional balsa wood models. I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve had to retire a balsa crankbait because it got chipped or damaged in some way. But with the Lucky Craft Square Bill, I didn’t have to worry about that as much. It can stand up to abuse in snaggy areas without falling apart.

This bait is highly responsive and floats high and fast. It’s perfect for triggering reaction strikes, especially from aggressive bass. The square lip is a game-changer because it can deflect off most obstructions, making it easier to fish in rocks or timber.

It’s a premium plastic square-bill crank that can replace traditional balsa-wood models. It’s not too promotional, but I have to admit, I’m a fan. It’s a reliable and effective tool in any angler’s tackle box, and I know I’ll be using it again in the future.

6. Strike King KVD 1.5

I’ve used my fair share of crankbaits, but the KVD 1.5 Shallow Runner really stood out to me for its ability to perform in shallow water.

The bill on this lure is a game-changer, allowing it to deflect off cover while still maintaining its true running speed. This feature made it an ideal option for fishing over grass or around stumpy flats, where other crankbaits may get hung up.

What really impressed me about the KVD 1.5 Shallow Runner was how it was hand-tuned, ensuring that every lure is of the highest quality. The black nickel hooks are strong and reliable, and the chip-resistant paint and 3D eyes make for a realistic and visually appealing lure.

How to Select the Right Square Bill Crankbaits

When it comes to selecting the best square bill crankbaits, there are many factors to consider, including the size, action, color, and depth range of the lure. By keeping these factors in mind and considering the specific needs of your fishing situation, you can select a high-quality lure that will help you catch more fish and have more success on the water.