The problem is, that selections will vary from estuary to estuary, so to start with, let's look at some general rules. Firstly, the lure should look as similar as possible to the prevalent baitfish that abounds in the selected area. If poddy mullet are predominant, then the lure must closely resemble a mullet. Clear water will call for a more natural looking lure, that is, a silver belly, dark backed lure, with a shallow diving action. Watch a school of poddy mullet swimming around the shore and you will see what you have to imitate.
Coloured water calls for a different approach.
The fish can no longer see the lure clearly and must use its other senses to detect its prey. Coloured water can be caused by a fresh in a river, run out tides from muddy bays, wind and the general nature of most rivers. At this point I would change to a reddish brown coloured lure, with a slow pulsing action. No better example exists than the famous range of Nilsmaster from Finland. The simple slow action Nilsmaster, well resembles the swimming motion of most baitfish and will take flathead in a variety of locations.