Top 5 Surface Iron Lures Every Angler Should Have

Surface iron fishing is a thrilling technique that demands both skill and the right equipment. One of the most critical components of your arsenal is the lure itself. Surface iron lures are designed to skim the water's surface, mimicking the movements of baitfish, and enticing predatory fish to strike. Whether you're targeting yellowtail, barracuda, or other game fish, having the right surface iron can make all the difference in your success. Here are the top five surface iron lures that every angler should have in their tackle box.

1. Tady 45 Surface Iron

Overview: The Tady 45 is a legendary lure in the surface iron category, known for its versatility and effectiveness across a wide range of fishing conditions. With a length of 6.25 inches and a weight of 3 ounces, the Tady 45 is a favorite among anglers targeting species like yellowtail, tuna, and barracuda.

Unique Features

• Action: The Tady 45 is famous for its unique erratic action, closely mimicking a sardine or mackerel, making it irresistible to predatory species.
• Wide Range of Colors: Available in various colors, including blue/white, mint, and scrambled egg, the Tady 45 allows anglers to match the hatch or experiment with contrasting colors depending on water clarity and light conditions.
• Versatility: Whether you're fishing from a boat or the shore, the Tady 45 performs exceptionally well in both environments. Its design allows for long casts and a consistent swimming pattern, even in choppy water.

Ideal Conditions

The Tady 45 has been proven to execute in all conditions. This jig has become a staple and has set the foundation of your go to surface iron for Yellowtail. When targeting yellowtail, use a fast retrieve to trigger aggressive strikes. For barracuda, a slower, more deliberate retrieve often works best.

2. Salas 7X Light Surface Iron

Overview: The Salas 7X Light is a classic surface iron that has earned a reputation for its exceptional performance, especially when fishing it in areas where there is a lot of swell. This lure measures 6.75 inches in length and weighs 3.5 ounces, making it a slightly lighter option that offers a unique action in the water.

Unique Features

• Big Presentation: Due to the size of this surface iron it has more drawing power than smaller jigs.
• Wider Swim Pattern: The Salas 7X Light has a broader side-to-side swimming motion compared to heavier lures. This wider pattern can be more enticing to fish, especially when they're feeding near the surface.
• Weight: The Salas 7x is "heavier" than most surface irons which allows it stay underneath the water no matter the conditions. You don't have to worry about a 7x coming out of the water.

The Salas 7X Light shines in choppy waters and windy conditions where its weight & wide swimming action can be fully appreciated. This lure is a go-to choice when fishing off-shore or "in tight" on the islands, specifically on the weather side.

3. DW-1 Surface Iron

Overview: The DW-1 by JRI is a surface iron that quickly gained a strong following among anglers due to it being designed off of one Dan Wade's favorite jig. Measuring 6 inches and weighing 2.75 ounces, the DW1 has an discreet action that performs well on a slow to medium retrieve. This jig is perfect when fishing calm conditions.

Unique Features

• Long Casting Ability: Thanks to its aerodynamic shape, the DW1 perfect for long casts, allowing anglers to reach fish that are farther from the boat or shore.
• Aggressive Action: The DW1 has a tighter, more aggressive swimming action compared to other surface irons. This action can provoke reaction strikes from predatory fish that are chasing down fast-moving baitfish.

Ideal Conditions

The DW-1 is ideal when attempting to scale down our presentation as it is smaller and thinner than others. When targeting tuna or yellowtail, use a slow to medium, steady retrieve to maximize the lure's aggressive action.

4. The Righteous 6" Surface Iron

Overview: The Righteous Surface Iron 6"—a lure meticulously crafted for performance and precision. Designed to meet the demands of serious anglers, this surface iron has undergone extensive testing to ensure it delivers the action needed to hook fish with confidence.

Unique Features

• Exceptional Swim Action: The Righteous Surface Iron is designed to mimic a natural swimming motion, effectively attracting fish and increasing your chances of a successful catch.
• Confidence-Inducing Performance: Rigorous testing has ensured this jig provides the precise action required to boost your hook-up ratio, allowing you to cast and retrieve with unwavering confidence.
• Precision Engineering: With its carefully calculated weight distribution, The Righteous ensures a stable flight during casting and maintains a reliable swimming action on the retrieve, making it a top performer in any fishing scenario.

Ideal Conditions
The Righteous has demonstrated its superior action across all conditions, from rough and choppy seas to calm waters with no current. Its robust nose design ensures the jig stays submerged, maintaining optimal action regardless of the environment. This feature allows The Righteous to perform consistently, showcasing its effectiveness in any situation and making it a reliable choice for serious anglers. Whether the waters are turbulent or still, you can trust The Righteous to deliver the action needed to attract fish and secure your catch.

5. The Righteous 5.5" Surface Iron

Overview: The Righteous 5.5" is the "baby brother" of the 6" version, featuring a unique design that sets it apart. The difference in size and shape provides this jig with a distinct presentation and, most importantly, a unique action in the water. As an iron fisherman, success hinges on having the right tools for the job. Understanding when to cast a larger profile jig, like a 7X, versus the more compact 5.5" Righteous can make all the difference in your results. Mastering the art of selecting the appropriate jig for the conditions will elevate your fishing game and significantly improve your catch rate.

Unique Features

• Exceptional Swim Action: The Righteous Surface Iron is designed to mimic a natural swimming motion, effectively attracting fish and increasing your chances of a successful catch.
• Confidence-Inducing Performance: Rigorous testing has ensured this jig provides the precise action required to boost your hook-up ratio, allowing you to cast and retrieve with unwavering confidence.
• Precision Engineering: With its carefully calculated weight distribution, The Righteous ensures a stable flight during casting and maintains a reliable swimming action on the retrieve, making it a top performer in any fishing scenario.

Ideal Conditions

The 5.5" Righteous is highly effective in any condition. This should be your go to jig when you need to "switch things up". Its smaller profile makes it an excellent choice for fishing in areas with smaller baitfish, such as sardines or anchovies. This lure is also highly effective in situations where fish are feeding aggressively on the surface, and a fast, erratic retrieve can trigger explosive strikes.

Conclusion

Surface iron fishing is a dynamic and exciting way to target a variety of game fish, and having the right lures in your tackle box is essential for success. The Tady 45, Salas 7X Light, DW1, The Righteous 6" and 5.5" are all top-notch options that offer unique features and advantages for different fishing conditions. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting started, these five surface iron lures will help you maximize your chances of landing that trophy fish.

Each of these lures has been carefully designed and tested to perform under specific conditions, so be sure to consider the environment and target species when selecting the right lure for your next fishing rtip. With these lures in your arsenal, you'll be well-equipped to tackle a wide range of fishing challenges and enjoy the thrill of surface iron fishing to the fullest.