Top 5 BFS Lures

For those with an affinity to ultralight fishing, the term BFS may be familiar. That being said, to many such an acronym means nothing more than well just an acronym. Simply put, BFS stands for Bait Finesse System, which describes of style of finesse fishing in which baitcasting equipment is utilized to fish finesse lures. Generally speaking, the lures used with BFS are those more regularly fished on spinning equipment. Take ultralight lures, like small plastics, micro crankbaits, micro jerkbaits, and more, for example.

BFS has its origins in Japan – where it’s remained popular since the 1980s. In recent years, its popularity has been on the rise in North America. While it still accounts for a small segment of the overall industry, it’s among the fastest growing factions. As fisheries become more pressured, BFS has been the answer for many anglers looking for a competitive edge. One of the major appeals: it’s a great option for shore fishermen.  

While it is not perfect, there are a number of benefits associated with this unique style. The primary advantages revolve around enhanced casting accuracy, line management, and control - allowing anglers to more effectively fish and present ultralight lures. The disadvantages lie primarily in the learning curve. To be an efficient BFS angler, practice is a requirement. 

Due to its ultra finesse style, it’s easy to assume that anglers rely on BFS strictly for smaller species – but that couldn’t be further from the truth. In today’s world, such anglers are targeting everything from panfish to trout to bass and more. Anglers in both fresh- and saltwater utilize BFS, but it’s certainly more popular in freshwater environments.

Like most types of angling, gear is of a particular consideration when it comes to BFS fishing. In fact, it’s arguably more important with BFS than in many other as rods and reels are very specialized for this style of fishing. Historically speaking, the options for were limited, but as interest grows so does the number of options. Specific choices largely depend on the target species and the lures you intend to use. 

Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of BFS fishing is the bait options. Many of the best lure types existed long before BFS had a foothold in the US market. In fact, some of the preferred options are just the typical lures one might find in the tackle box of a panfish or trout angler.

Eurotackle is no stranger to this ultralight game. Many of the options in the lineup perform well with a BFS setup. For anglers that want give BFS a try, check out the essentials below.

Z-Spender

Coming in at 2 inches in length and 1/8 oz, the Z-Spender is unique in every aspect. It features a one-of-a-kind action and balancing system. The bait’s action is highly erratic, making it a top choice for any species that swims.

The ‘Spender’ was developed to suspend perfectly twitch after twitch — making it the only one in its size class. Due to its micro design, line type and diameter will have an impact on the depths it reaches.

As designed, the Z-Spender fishes at depths of up to three feet. A steady retrieve will provide a consistent action, while a jerk and pause method provides a very erratic, darting action.

To fish the lure via a jerk and pause method, “snap” the rod towards you, then reel in the line quickly while moving the rod back towards the starting position. Alternate your retrieve by including pauses, as well as the number of “jerks.”

The micro jerkbaits are complimented with Eurotackle’s custom treble hook which is designed to increase hooking percentages. The Z-Spender comes in 11 different color schemes – including natural, realistic, and more showy options.

Z-Cranker

At 1.5 inches in length and 1/8 oz, the Z-Cranker in the definition of an ultralight crankbait. The lure was tested and refined for more than two years before coming to market. The bait features a wide-bodied design and super low center of gravity for a distinctive wobbling action when worked via a cast & retrieve methods.

The ‘Cranker’ features a slow floating body. In other words, it’s buoyant-balanced design allows the user to pause the bait mid-retrieve without it floating directly to the surface. The slow floating profile also prevents the bait from getting hung up in cover because it can be paused.

Designed to dive to depths of at 5 feet, the Z-Cranker is an excellent choice. The bait features our internal double rattle system to call fish in from a distance.

All lures come standard with Eurotackle’s custom treble hooks, which feature a light wire for increased hook penetration. The Z-Cranker comes in ten different color schemes to cover any scenario. The realistic paint jobs and design create a lot of flash on the retrieve.

B-Vibe

The B-Vibe has made a name for itself throughout the panfish and bait finesse communities. At two inches, the plastic is an ideal size imitation of natural baitfish. 

The B-Vibe was designed to provide an extremely natural swimming action when fished via cast and retrieve methods. The ultra-soft composition of the lure allows it to be fished effectively at variable speeds. In tough conditions, the B-Vibe can be fished using an extremely slow retrieve and the flat paddle of the lure will still provide a lot of action. An intermediary flat surface was added to solidify the bait and prevent the lure from tearing during use.

The B-Vibe pairs well with jigs from sizes 1/32 oz to 1/8 oz. The Soft-Lock series of jigs allows for easy removal without tearing the plastic. The tungsten composition allows for a smaller package at the ideal weight. As lead bans continue to pop up across the country, the Soft-Lock is a great option. Effectiveness of jig size varies based on conditions and water depth. Opt for larger jigs for deeper water scenarios. 

The B-Vibe Family is offered in 12 different color options. When paired with four different colors of Soft Locks, the color combinations are nearly endless. 

Nage

The Nage is one of the newest additions to Eurotackle’s lineup. As a compact swimbait, it was developed as an answer to the category that primarily includes oversized options. The Nage series includes two options, a 2.75” and 4.75”, and the little brother is the perfect option for BFS anglers. At 2.75”, it’s one of the smallest swimbaits on the market.

This three-segment shad shaped swimbait features a realistic design and interchangeable fin, which helps to enhance the overall action. As an extremely versatile lure, the Nage can be fished in a variety of scenarios. You can fish it fast, you can fish it slow, and anywhere in between. Due to its slow sinking nature, the bait also doubles as a gliding bait that can be slowly twitched.

Armed with premium BKK treble hooks, the hook up ratio of the Nage is high. The swimbait is offered in nine fish catching colors – including both realistic and non-realistic options to cover a wide range of scenarios.

Z-Popper

Coming in at 1.75 inches in length and 1/8 oz, the Z-Popper is the perfect topwater for BFS anglers. Due to its size, it’s long been a top choice for ultralight anglers that target panfish, trout, and bass.

The Z-Popper includes an internal tungsten ball which aids in casting distance and provides a knocking noise when worked.

Poppers are a great option for beginners. Since the bait floats, they can be paused for long periods of time and minimize the risk of getting hung up in cover. While the Popper is designed as the name suggests (to pop), it works well as a walking bait as well.

When it comes to poppers, it’s important to remember to play with your cadence. Work it fast, work it slow, and sometimes in between. Let the fish tell you what they want each day.