Let’s Talk About Berkley FFSH5M-SLMS FLCKR SHAD 5CM SLICK MOUSE 1316785
The Berkley FFSH5M-SLMS FLCKR SHAD 5CM SLICK MOUSE 1316785 is a small but mighty contender in the world of crankbaits. Designed by Berkley in collaboration with professional anglers, it aims to mimic the profile and action of a fleeing shad, triggering strikes from a variety of predatory fish. At a mere 5cm (approximately 2 inches) in length and sporting the “Slick Mouse” color pattern, it’s designed to entice fish in various water conditions.
I’ve spent years chasing finicky walleye in murky waters, a problem that often requires downsizing lures to match smaller baitfish. I was looking for a crankbait that could dive quickly to the 9-11 foot range and present a realistic profile, without sacrificing casting distance. The promise of a pro-designed lure with a weight transfer system piqued my interest.
Unboxing the Berkley FFSH5M-SLMS FLCKR SHAD 5CM SLICK MOUSE 1316785 revealed a compact, well-finished crankbait. The “Slick Mouse” color pattern is surprisingly detailed, with subtle variations in shade that give it a realistic appearance. The two Fusion19 hooks looked exceptionally sharp right out of the package, a feature I always appreciate.
Compared to similar lures like the Rapala Shad Rap or the Yo-Zuri 3DR Shad, the Flicker Shad stands out for its aggressive wobble and tighter action. While the Shad Rap is a classic, its buoyancy can sometimes be a drawback in faster currents. The 3DR Shad is known for its detailed finish, but can be pricier. Ultimately, the combination of price, action, and diving depth led me to choose the Berkley option.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited about the potential, but also aware that many lures promise the world and fail to deliver. The sharp hooks and realistic finish were encouraging signs, but the true test would be on the water.
Real-World Testing: Putting Berkley FFSH5M-SLMS FLCKR SHAD 5CM SLICK MOUSE 1316785 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Berkley FFSH5M-SLMS FLCKR SHAD 5CM SLICK MOUSE 1316785 on a local reservoir known for its walleye population. The reservoir had recently experienced heavy rainfall, resulting in murky water and challenging fishing conditions. I targeted areas near submerged timber and rock piles, where walleye often ambush prey.
Despite the tough conditions, the Flicker Shad performed admirably. Its tight wobble and erratic action proved enticing to the walleye, even in the low-visibility water. I caught several fish in the 2-3 pound range, all of which were aggressively hooked on the Fusion19 trebles.
The lure was surprisingly easy to use right out of the package. The weight transfer system allowed for surprisingly long casts, despite the lure’s small size. I didn’t experience any issues with snagging or fouling, even when fishing near submerged cover.
One minor surprise was how quickly the lure reached its advertised diving depth. I was able to effectively fish the 9-11 foot range with a relatively short amount of line out. This made it easier to control the lure’s presentation and keep it in the strike zone.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Berkley FFSH5M-SLMS FLCKR SHAD 5CM SLICK MOUSE 1316785 has held up remarkably well. The paint finish has proven to be surprisingly durable, with only minor scratches and chips despite repeated contact with rocks and timber. The Fusion19 hooks have remained sharp and strong, even after landing numerous fish.
I’ve noticed no significant signs of wear and tear on the lure’s body or hardware. The split rings and hook hangers are still securely attached and show no signs of corrosion. This speaks to the quality of materials used in the Flicker Shad’s construction.
Maintenance is simple: I typically rinse the lure with fresh water after each use and occasionally apply a light coat of lubricant to the hooks to prevent rust. The lure is easy to clean and maintain, ensuring its longevity.
Compared to other crankbaits I’ve used in the past, the Berkley FFSH5M-SLMS FLCKR SHAD 5CM SLICK MOUSE 1316785 outperforms many in its price range. Its durability, action, and casting distance make it a standout choice for anglers targeting walleye, bass, and other predatory fish. While more expensive lures might offer slightly better finishes or hardware, the Flicker Shad provides exceptional value for the money.
Breaking Down the Features of Berkley FFSH5M-SLMS FLCKR SHAD 5CM SLICK MOUSE 1316785
Specifications
- Bait Length: 2 inches (5cm). This compact size makes it ideal for imitating smaller baitfish.
- Swimming Depth: 9′ – 11′. The lure is designed to quickly reach and maintain this depth range.
- Number of Hooks: 2. Equipped with two sticky-sharp Fusion19 treble hooks.
- Weight: 3/16 oz. Provides a good balance between casting distance and sensitivity.
- Quantity: Per 1. Sold individually.
- Color: Slick Mouse. A realistic color pattern designed to mimic a variety of baitfish.
- Packaging: Plastic Clam/Blister. Standard packaging for easy storage and display.
These specifications are important because they directly influence the lure’s performance and effectiveness. The size and weight determine its casting distance and profile in the water, while the diving depth dictates the water column it can effectively target. The sharp hooks are critical for ensuring solid hooksets, especially when fishing for walleye, which are known for their subtle strikes.
Performance & Functionality
The Berkley FFSH5M-SLMS FLCKR SHAD 5CM SLICK MOUSE 1316785 excels at imitating a fleeing baitfish. Its tight wobble and erratic action trigger strikes from a variety of predatory fish, even in challenging conditions. The weight transfer system allows for surprisingly long casts, maximizing its effectiveness over a larger area.
Its strengths lie in its realistic profile, aggressive action, and surprising casting distance for its size. One potential weakness is its relatively small size, which may not be ideal for targeting larger predators or fishing in heavily weeded areas. Overall, it meets and even exceeds expectations for a crankbait in its class.
Design & Ergonomics
The Flicker Shad boasts a streamlined profile and realistic color pattern that closely mimics a natural baitfish. The lure’s compact size and balanced weight make it comfortable to fish for extended periods. The build quality feels solid, with durable materials and securely attached hardware.
The lure is extremely user-friendly, requiring no special techniques or adjustments. Its ease of use makes it a great choice for both experienced anglers and beginners. There is no learning curve associated with fishing the Flicker Shad.
Durability & Maintenance
The Berkley FFSH5M-SLMS FLCKR SHAD 5CM SLICK MOUSE 1316785 is built to last, with a durable paint finish and robust hardware. With proper care, it should withstand numerous fishing trips and continue to perform effectively. The easy maintenance ensures its longevity and consistent performance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Berkley FFSH5M-SLMS FLCKR SHAD 5CM SLICK MOUSE 1316785 doesn’t come with any included accessories beyond the lure itself. Customization options are limited, but anglers can easily swap out the stock hooks for different sizes or styles. The lure is compatible with most standard split rings and hook hangers.
Pros and Cons of Berkley FFSH5M-SLMS FLCKR SHAD 5CM SLICK MOUSE 1316785
Pros
- Realistic profile and color pattern: Effectively imitates a variety of baitfish.
- Aggressive wobble and erratic action: Triggers strikes from predatory fish.
- Surprisingly long casting distance for its size: Maximizes its effectiveness over a larger area.
- Sharp Fusion19 hooks: Ensure solid hooksets.
- Affordable price: Excellent value for the money.
Cons
- Relatively small size: May not be ideal for targeting larger predators.
- Limited customization options: Only hook swaps are easily done.
Who Should Buy Berkley FFSH5M-SLMS FLCKR SHAD 5CM SLICK MOUSE 1316785?
This crankbait is perfect for anglers targeting walleye, bass, trout, and other predatory fish in clear to moderately stained water. It’s also a great choice for anglers who prefer to use smaller lures or are fishing in areas with heavy fishing pressure. This lure is a must-have for pro anglers searching for an edge.
Anglers targeting very large predators or fishing in heavily weeded areas might want to skip this product in favor of larger, more specialized lures. A must-have accessory is a quality snap swivel to prevent line twist when using crankbaits.
Conclusion on Berkley FFSH5M-SLMS FLCKR SHAD 5CM SLICK MOUSE 1316785
The Berkley FFSH5M-SLMS FLCKR SHAD 5CM SLICK MOUSE 1316785 is a compact but mighty crankbait that delivers exceptional performance and value. Its realistic profile, aggressive action, and surprising casting distance make it a standout choice for anglers targeting a variety of predatory fish. The price is absolutely justified considering its effectiveness and durability.
I would personally recommend this lure to any angler looking for a reliable and affordable crankbait that can consistently produce results. Add the Berkley FFSH5M-SLMS FLCKR SHAD 5CM SLICK MOUSE 1316785 to your tackle box and get ready to catch some fish!