A:
When selecting lure colors for freshwater fishing there are two factors to keep in mind. The first is to "match-the-hatch". To do so, you will need to find baits that mimic color of the prey of the species that you are targeting closely. For instance, when fishing in a large lake with heavy amounts of shad, a silver, black, white, or blue based color (depending on the color of the shad in the lake) would be appropriate to use. If fishing a pond where the main forage may be small bream (such as bluegill) try using a chartruse and white or firetiger color.
As well, base the colors that you are using on the water situation that you are facing. If fishing in clear water, lures that have a more subtle or natural color would be great, as this will not spook fish. However, if fishing in water that may be murky or muddy, try using a lure with a lot of flash so that the lure can allow the fish to hone in on it.