Best way to catch a low-rarity high-tier?

[fish fear me]

Alright, so I'm trying to catch a normal (lowest rarity) Golden Manta Ray, to slowly work towards having caught every rarity of every fish (I've caught the ray before, but in Opulent, so it doesn't count for that specific level). Obviously this is a 3-tier fish.

I assume the Golden Hook is the way to go for the increased chance of getting a golden ray in the first place, but I'm not sure what bait to use with it. Would crickets be best, because they can catch tier 3 but are almost guaranteed to be the lowest rarity? Or do crickets make it less likely for me to catch a tier 3 and/or "rare" fish? I've read every guide that's on here but I am still unsure, LOL.

(Also if the golden hook is not in fact the way to go, let me know that too haha.)

I have a fully upgraded rod and am using the caster's cola ultra's sometimes, if that matters?

Thanks y'all!

[something647]

crickets and golden hook are the way to go