Underwater, vision is limited and smell can take time to travel. But sound? Sound is immediate.
For fish, sound detection is not just a helpful tool – it’s a matter of survival. In the aquatic world, the ability to detect sound is how fish locate prey, avoid predators, communicate with one another and navigate murky or deep environments.
Erick Arnoldson, VP of Operations at Livingston Lures, says: “While many anglers are fixated on colour patterns and lure shapes, science has long shown that fish ‘hear’ first. They react fast and strike based on vibration and acoustic cues.
“This natural sensitivity to sound is what makes Livingston Lures’ EBS (Electronic Baitfish Sound) technology one of the most revolutionary tools in modern fishing.”
Fish possess an intricate internal hearing system – a combination of their inner ear (equipped with otoliths) and their lateral line, which detects low-frequency vibrations. These two systems work in tandem to give fish a near-360° awareness of their environment.
- Feeding: Many predatory fish use sound cues, like the erratic flutter of a wounded baitfish, to hone in on potential prey.
- Fleeing: Sudden pressure waves or unnatural sounds can send fish darting for cover. It’s why silence can be golden in some waters, and why the right sound can trigger an aggressive strike in others.
Livingston Lures’ EBS technology taps into this sensory system by emitting natural baitfish sounds every time the lure hits the water.
“These digital sound sequences mimic the exact acoustic signature of common forage fish – activating instincts in ways that traditional lures simply can’t,” explains Arnoldson. “The result? Fish hear your lure before they see it – and when curiosity, competition or aggression kicks in, they strike with confidence.
“In field tests and real-world scenarios, EBS-equipped lures have consistently outperformed silent alternatives – often increasing catch rates by 20% to 50%, especially in stained water or low-light conditions where sound becomes even more critical.
“Fish have been listening far longer than we’ve been fishing. The question is, are you giving them something worth hearing?With Livingston Lures’ EBS technology, you’re not just fishing smarter, you’re fishing with science.
“At Livingston Lures, we combine science, innovation and angler insight to create cutting-edge fishing lures that help you catch more fish. We’re the pioneers behind EBS technology, which mimics the natural sounds of live bait to trigger more strikes, even when fish aren’t feeding.
“Our mission is simple – to revolutionize sportfishing by putting the power of sound and realism into every cast. From weekend anglers to tournament pros, we’re dedicated to giving fishermen of all levels an edge on the water. Every lure is designed to perform under pressure, built to last and backed by our commitment to quality and innovation.”
Whether you fish for bass, walleye, pike, musky or inshore species, Arnoldson says Livingston Lures helps you fish smarter, fish harder and fish with confidence.
Originally Published in Angling International