First Impressions of Salmo Rattlinft Hornet 4.5 1-3/4in, 3/16oz, Floating
The Salmo Rattlinft Hornet 4.5 1-3/4in, 3/16oz, Floating is a revamped version of a legendary crankbait, promising to entice even the most stubborn predatory fish with its built-in rattle and enhanced action. Salmo, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in the fishing world, claims this lure is a universal weapon capable of landing a wide variety of species. This lure piqued my interest because I’ve been searching for a reliable crankbait that can effectively trigger strikes in murky or heavily pressured waters, where sound and vibration play a crucial role.
I was looking for a small, yet effective crankbait to target panfish and trout in my local river. Its size and floating nature made it seem like the perfect fit. The Salmo Rattlinft Hornet 4.5 1-3/4in, 3/16oz, Floating arrived in a simple, yet effective package. Holding it for the first time, I was immediately struck by its compact size and the quality of the finish.
Compared to other small crankbaits I’ve used, like the Rapala Ultra Light Crank or the Rebel Crickhopper, the Hornet felt sturdier and the finish seemed more durable. I chose the Salmo because of its reputation for realistic action and the added rattle, which I hoped would give it an edge. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism; the lure looked promising, but the proof would be in the water.
Real-World Testing: Putting Salmo Rattlinft Hornet 4.5 1-3/4in, 3/16oz, Floating to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Salmo Rattlinft Hornet 4.5 1-3/4in, 3/16oz, Floating was on a cloudy afternoon at the local river. I tested it in various scenarios, including slow retrieves in calm eddies and faster presentations in the main current. The lure performed admirably, maintaining a consistent wobble and diving to a shallow depth, which was perfect for the conditions.
I didn’t hook any giants on my first outing, but I did manage to entice several trout and panfish, all of which struck the lure aggressively. The lure proved easy to cast, even against a slight breeze, and the rattle seemed to attract fish from a decent distance. I didn’t experience any issues with the hooks or the lure’s action during this initial test.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Salmo Rattlinft Hornet 4.5 1-3/4in, 3/16oz, Floating has held up exceptionally well. The paint finish has proven to be remarkably durable, showing only minor signs of wear and tear despite encounters with rocks and submerged timber. Cleaning the lure is a breeze; a simple rinse with freshwater after each use is usually sufficient.
Compared to some of my other crankbaits, which have suffered from chipped paint and corroded hooks, the Salmo has demonstrated superior durability. The Salmo Rattlinft Hornet 4.5 1-3/4in, 3/16oz, Floating has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and consistent performance. It continues to be a reliable and productive lure in my tackle box.
Breaking Down the Features of Salmo Rattlinft Hornet 4.5 1-3/4in, 3/16oz, Floating
Specifications
The Salmo Rattlinft Hornet 4.5 1-3/4in, 3/16oz, Floating boasts several key specifications. Its length is 1-3/4 inches, or 4.5 cm, and it weighs a mere 3/16 oz. The lure is designed to be floating, allowing for versatile presentations.
The Salmo also features a built-in rattle chamber, designed to emit a fish-attracting sound. The lure has a long cast SICS (Salmo Injection Casting System), which aids in achieving greater casting distance and accuracy. These specifications work together to create a compact, versatile, and effective crankbait.
Performance & Functionality
The Salmo Rattlinft Hornet 4.5 1-3/4in, 3/16oz, Floating excels at its primary function: attracting and catching fish. The rattle produces a noticeable sound that seems to draw fish in, even in murky water. The lure’s action is also very effective, producing a tight wobble that mimics the movement of a small baitfish.
One potential weakness is its small size, which may not be ideal for targeting larger predatory species. However, for panfish, trout, and other smaller predators, it’s a perfect size. Overall, the Salmo meets and often exceeds expectations in terms of performance and functionality.
Design & Ergonomics
The Salmo Rattlinft Hornet 4.5 1-3/4in, 3/16oz, Floating exhibits excellent build quality, with durable materials and a well-applied paint finish. Its compact size and lightweight design make it comfortable to use for extended periods. The lure is incredibly user-friendly, requiring no special skills or techniques to fish effectively.
Durability & Maintenance
The Salmo Rattlinft Hornet 4.5 1-3/4in, 3/16oz, Floating is built to last. The lure’s durable construction and high-quality finish should provide many seasons of reliable use. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only a quick rinse after each fishing trip.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Salmo Rattlinft Hornet 4.5 1-3/4in, 3/16oz, Floating doesn’t come with a vast array of accessories, as it is a self-contained unit. However, anglers can easily customize the lure by swapping out the stock hooks for higher-quality or different sized trebles. The lure is compatible with most standard treble hooks, allowing for a wide range of customization options.
Pros and Cons of Salmo Rattlinft Hornet 4.5 1-3/4in, 3/16oz, Floating
Pros
- The Salmo Rattlinft Hornet 4.5 1-3/4in, 3/16oz, Floating features an effective rattle that attracts fish, even in low-visibility conditions.
- The lure is easy to cast, thanks to the long cast SICS system, which allows for precise and accurate presentations.
- Its tight wobble and realistic action mimics a baitfish well, enticing strikes from a variety of species.
- The durable construction and high-quality finish ensure that the lure can withstand repeated use.
- The Salmo Rattlinft Hornet 4.5 1-3/4in, 3/16oz, Floating is very versatile.
Cons
- The small size may not be suitable for targeting larger predatory fish.
- The included hooks, while functional, could be upgraded for improved hook-setting power.
Who Should Buy Salmo Rattlinft Hornet 4.5 1-3/4in, 3/16oz, Floating?
The Salmo Rattlinft Hornet 4.5 1-3/4in, 3/16oz, Floating is perfect for anglers targeting panfish, trout, and other small to medium-sized predatory fish. It’s also an excellent choice for those fishing in murky or heavily pressured waters where sound and vibration are crucial for attracting fish. Anglers seeking a lure specifically for targeting trophy-sized predators should probably skip this product.
Upgrading the hooks to a premium brand like Gamakatsu or Owner is a must-have modification to maximize hook-setting potential.
Conclusion on Salmo Rattlinft Hornet 4.5 1-3/4in, 3/16oz, Floating
The Salmo Rattlinft Hornet 4.5 1-3/4in, 3/16oz, Floating is a highly effective and versatile crankbait that delivers excellent performance at a reasonable price. The $4.49-$5.49 price is definitely justified for the quality and effectiveness. I would wholeheartedly recommend this lure to any angler looking to add a reliable and productive crankbait to their tackle box.
Don’t hesitate—add the Salmo Rattlinft Hornet 4.5 1-3/4in, 3/16oz, Floating to your arsenal and experience the thrill of landing more fish!