Let’s Talk About Berkley FFMN7D-SLAW FLCKR MNW DP 7CM SLICK ALWF 1341401
The Berkley FFMN7D-SLAW FLCKR MNW DP 7CM SLICK ALWF 1341401, or as I’ll affectionately call it, the “Slick Alewife Flicker Minnow,” is a deep-diving minnow bait designed for trolling, specifically targeting fish that hang out in the 14-17 foot range. Designed by the fishing experts at Berkley, this lure aims to mimic a real minnow’s profile and action to entice strikes. With its vibrant “Slick Alewife” color pattern and two sharp Fusion19 hooks, it promises to be a valuable addition to any angler’s tackle box.
My fishing trips often involve trolling deeper waters, and I’ve struggled to find a lure that consistently reaches and maintains the desired depth without excessive weight. The Berkley Flicker Minnow’s reputation for diving deep efficiently piqued my interest, and the realistic color scheme sealed the deal. I’ve used countless crankbaits and trolling spoons over the years, always on the lookout for that perfect presentation to trigger aggressive strikes.
Upon unboxing the Berkley FFMN7D-SLAW FLCKR MNW DP 7CM SLICK ALWF 1341401, the first thing I noticed was the quality of the finish. The holographic paint job on the “Slick Alewife” pattern is remarkably realistic, and the lure feels solid and well-constructed in hand. The included Fusion19 hooks are impressively sharp, a testament to Berkley’s commitment to quality.
Compared to similar minnow baits like the Rapala Deep Tail Dancer or the Yo-Zuri Crystal Minnow Deep Diver, the Berkley Flicker Minnow boasts a more compact profile and a potentially more aggressive diving angle. I was hoping this design would translate to better tracking and fewer snags when trolling around structure. The Rapala has a wider wobble while the Yo-Zuri is flashier; this Berkley seemed to be a balance of the two.
My initial reaction was one of excitement and anticipation. This lure looked like it had the potential to be a game-changer for my deep-water trolling techniques, and I couldn’t wait to put it to the test. Could this be the solution to my deep-water lure presentation needs?
Real-World Testing: Putting Berkley FFMN7D-SLAW FLCKR MNW DP 7CM SLICK ALWF 1341401 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Berkley FFMN7D-SLAW FLCKR MNW DP 7CM SLICK ALWF 1341401 was on a large reservoir known for its walleye and trout populations. I trolled it behind my boat at various speeds, targeting depths of 15-17 feet, as recommended by Berkley. The water was clear, and the weather was calm, providing ideal conditions for testing the lure’s performance.
The Flicker Minnow performed admirably, diving quickly to its target depth and maintaining a consistent swimming action. Even in slightly choppy conditions, the lure tracked straight and true, exhibiting a tight wobble that I believe is highly attractive to predatory fish. I didn’t catch anything on my first day, but I was impressed with how well it ran.
The lure was remarkably easy to use right out of the package. I simply tied it to my leader and began trolling; no additional tuning or adjustments were necessary. After a couple of hours, I noticed a small amount of paint chipping around the bill, but it was minimal and didn’t affect the lure’s action.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Berkley FFMN7D-SLAW FLCKR MNW DP 7CM SLICK ALWF 1341401 has proven to be a reliable and effective lure. It has consistently reached its target depth and maintained its enticing swimming action. I’ve now landed several walleye and a few decent sized trout using it, confirming it does catch fish!
The lure has held up surprisingly well, considering the number of hours it has spent in the water. The paint has shown some additional wear, particularly around the bill and hook hangers, but the lure’s overall integrity remains intact. The Fusion19 hooks, while incredibly sharp, have required occasional sharpening to maintain their bite.
Maintaining the Flicker Minnow is simple. I rinse it with fresh water after each use and occasionally apply a thin coat of clear sealant to protect the paint. Compared to some of the more delicate crankbaits I’ve used in the past, the Berkley Flicker Minnow is remarkably durable and low-maintenance.
Breaking Down the Features of Berkley FFMN7D-SLAW FLCKR MNW DP 7CM SLICK ALWF 1341401
Specifications
The Berkley FFMN7D-SLAW FLCKR MNW DP 7CM SLICK ALWF 1341401 boasts several key specifications:
- Bait Length: 3 inches (7cm). This compact size mimics a common forage fish profile.
- Swimming Depth: 14′ – 17′. This is the optimal depth range for targeting fish in deeper waters.
- Number of Hooks: 2. Two strategically placed Fusion19 hooks maximize hook-up ratios.
- Color: Slick Alewife. A realistic color pattern that imitates a natural baitfish.
- Quantity: Per 1. Each package contains one lure.
- Packaging: Plastic Clam/Blister. Standard packaging for easy display and protection.
These specifications are crucial for several reasons. The 3-inch length closely resembles the size of many common minnows, making it appealing to a wide variety of predatory fish. The 14-17 foot diving depth allows anglers to effectively target fish in deeper waters without the need for excessive weight or specialized tackle. The two Fusion19 hooks ensure a secure hook-set, reducing the chances of losing fish.
Performance & Functionality
The Berkley FFMN7D-SLAW FLCKR MNW DP 7CM SLICK ALWF 1341401 excels at its primary function: attracting and catching fish in deep water. Its tight wobble and realistic color pattern are highly effective at triggering strikes, and its ability to quickly reach and maintain its target depth is impressive. The lure’s sharp hooks ensure a solid hook-set, minimizing the risk of lost fish.
One of the lure’s strengths is its consistent performance. It consistently tracks straight and true, even at higher trolling speeds. A potential weakness is its susceptibility to paint chipping, particularly around the bill and hook hangers. Overall, the lure meets and slightly exceeds my expectations for a deep-diving minnow bait.
Design & Ergonomics
The Flicker Minnow’s design is simple yet effective. Its compact profile and realistic color pattern are visually appealing, and its weight and balance feel just right. The lure is easy to handle and casts surprisingly well for its size. The Fusion19 hooks are sharp and strong, providing confidence when fighting larger fish.
The lure is very user-friendly. Its streamlined design requires minimal tuning or adjustments, making it easy for anglers of all skill levels to use. The Berkley FFMN7D-SLAW FLCKR MNW DP 7CM SLICK ALWF 1341401 has virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Berkley FFMN7D-SLAW FLCKR MNW DP 7CM SLICK ALWF 1341401 is reasonably durable, but it is not indestructible. The paint is prone to chipping, particularly in areas that come into contact with rocks or other hard surfaces. However, the lure’s overall construction is solid, and its internal components appear to be well-protected.
Maintaining the lure is simple. Rinse it with fresh water after each use and occasionally sharpen the hooks. Applying a thin coat of clear sealant to the paint can help to prolong its lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Berkley FFMN7D-SLAW FLCKR MNW DP 7CM SLICK ALWF 1341401 does not come with any additional accessories. It is primarily designed to be used as-is, without any modifications. However, anglers can customize the lure by changing the hooks or adding split rings.
The lure is compatible with most standard-sized treble hooks and split rings. Anglers can also experiment with different leader materials and trolling techniques to optimize its performance. Consider upgrading to a heavier split ring if targeting larger fish.
Pros and Cons of Berkley FFMN7D-SLAW FLCKR MNW DP 7CM SLICK ALWF 1341401
Pros
- Consistently reaches target depth of 14-17 feet.
- Realistic “Slick Alewife” color pattern is highly effective at attracting fish.
- Tight wobble and swimming action are appealing to a wide variety of predatory fish.
- Sharp Fusion19 hooks ensure solid hook-sets and minimize lost fish.
- Easy to use and requires minimal tuning or adjustments.
Cons
- Paint is prone to chipping, particularly around the bill and hook hangers.
- Hooks may require occasional sharpening to maintain their bite.
Who Should Buy Berkley FFMN7D-SLAW FLCKR MNW DP 7CM SLICK ALWF 1341401?
The Berkley FFMN7D-SLAW FLCKR MNW DP 7CM SLICK ALWF 1341401 is perfect for anglers who frequently troll in deep water, targeting species such as walleye, trout, and salmon. It is also a good choice for anglers who are looking for a simple, easy-to-use lure that consistently performs well. The lure’s realistic color pattern and enticing swimming action make it an excellent option for both experienced and novice anglers.
Anglers who primarily fish in shallow water or who prefer to cast rather than troll should skip this product. Its design is optimized for deep-water trolling, and it may not be as effective in other fishing scenarios.
Must-have accessories include a quality trolling rod and reel, as well as a selection of leader materials and swivels. A good pair of pliers for hook removal is also essential. Consider a line counter reel for consistent depth control.
Conclusion on Berkley FFMN7D-SLAW FLCKR MNW DP 7CM SLICK ALWF 1341401
The Berkley FFMN7D-SLAW FLCKR MNW DP 7CM SLICK ALWF 1341401 is a solid and effective deep-diving minnow bait that delivers on its promises. Its realistic color pattern, enticing swimming action, and consistent performance make it a valuable addition to any angler’s tackle box. While the paint may be prone to chipping, the lure’s overall durability and effectiveness outweigh this minor drawback.
At a price of $7.95, the Berkley Flicker Minnow offers excellent value for its price. It is a well-designed and well-constructed lure that performs consistently well, making it a worthwhile investment for any angler who enjoys deep-water trolling.
I would definitely recommend the Berkley FFMN7D-SLAW FLCKR MNW DP 7CM SLICK ALWF 1341401 to any angler who is looking for a reliable and effective deep-diving minnow bait. Give it a try on your next fishing trip and see for yourself why it’s quickly becoming one of my go-to lures. Add it to your cart now and get ready to catch some fish!