First Impressions of Strike King Red Eyed Shad Tungsten 2-Tap Lipless Crankbait, Sinking
The Strike King Red Eyed Shad Tungsten 2-Tap Lipless Crankbait, Sinking isn’t just another lure; it’s a statement. Designed by the Strike King pro staff, it promises incredible action, premium components, and a unique sound profile thanks to its tungsten sound chamber. Having spent over a decade chasing bass in every condition imaginable, from the murky waters of the Louisiana bayous to the clear, deep lakes of the Ozarks, I’m always on the lookout for that edge, that special something that triggers those finicky bites.
I was looking for a lipless crankbait that could perform in pressured waters, where bass have heard every rattle and seen every flash in the tackle box. The promise of a “double tapping cadence” from the tungsten sound chamber piqued my interest. My tackle box already hosts a collection of lipless cranks, including the original Strike King Red Eyed Shad and a couple of models from Rapala and Bill Lewis.
Upon receiving the Strike King Red Eyed Shad Tungsten 2-Tap Lipless Crankbait, Sinking, I was immediately drawn to the finish. The paint job was vibrant and seemed incredibly durable, and the 3D red eyes added a realistic touch. It felt solid, and the 1/2 oz weight suggested it would cast well even in windy conditions. I was eager to see if its performance lived up to the hype, especially compared to my go-to Red Eyed Shad.
Real-World Testing: Putting Strike King Red Eyed Shad Tungsten 2-Tap Lipless Crankbait, Sinking to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground was a local reservoir known for its clear water and heavy fishing pressure. I tied on the Strike King Red Eyed Shad Tungsten 2-Tap Lipless Crankbait, Sinking and began experimenting with different retrieves. The water temperature was in the low 60s, and the bass were just starting to move into pre-spawn patterns.
The first few casts revealed impressive casting distance thanks to the weight. I tested it with a lift-and-drop retrieve, hopping it along the bottom. The unique sound was immediately noticeable – a distinct “tick-tick” that differed significantly from the standard rattle of other lipless cranks. On my fifth cast, I felt a solid thump, and a feisty 3-pounder came to the boat.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Strike King Red Eyed Shad Tungsten 2-Tap Lipless Crankbait, Sinking has become a staple in my tackle bag. The paint job has proven to be remarkably durable, with minimal chipping even after bouncing off rocks and timber. I’ve caught fish on it in various conditions, including clear water, stained water, and even after a heavy rain.
Maintenance is simple: a quick rinse with fresh water after each trip is all it takes. Compared to my standard Red Eyed Shad, the 2-Tap version seems to excel in situations where bass are pressured or finicky. It seems the unique sound profile does trigger strikes when other lures fail.
Breaking Down the Features of Strike King Red Eyed Shad Tungsten 2-Tap Lipless Crankbait, Sinking
Specifications
Manufacturer: Strike King.
Sound Production: Rattling with a unique “2-Tap” tungsten cadence.
Tackle Weight: 1/2 oz. This weight is ideal for covering water quickly and fishing at various depths.
Length: 2.5 in.
Additional Features: Tungsten Rattles, Diving Depth – Sinking. The sinking nature allows for controlled depth and bottom bouncing.
Hooks: Premium Size 3 VMC Vanadium Cone Cut Hooks. The VMC hooks are sticky sharp and hold fish well.
These specifications are crucial because they contribute directly to the lure’s performance. The weight allows for long casts and deep retrieves, while the tungsten rattles offer a unique sound that separates it from the competition. The hook quality ensures solid hooksets and reduces lost fish.
Performance & Functionality
The Strike King Red Eyed Shad Tungsten 2-Tap Lipless Crankbait, Sinking excels in its primary function: catching fish. It casts exceptionally well, maintains its action at various retrieve speeds, and the 2-Tap sound genuinely seems to attract fish.
A minor weakness is that its sinking nature can make it prone to snagging in heavy cover. However, this can be mitigated with a faster retrieve or by using a rod tip to keep it slightly higher in the water column. Overall, it exceeds my expectations in terms of performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is impressive; the plastic body feels solid and well-constructed. The premium paint jobs are eye-catching and seem designed to withstand abuse.
It’s incredibly user-friendly; even beginners can effectively fish it with a simple cast-and-retrieve. There’s no complex rigging or specialized techniques required.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, this lure should last for multiple seasons with proper care. The paint is durable, the hooks are strong, and the overall construction is robust.
Maintenance is minimal; simply rinse it off after each use and replace the hooks as needed. The split rings are also of good quality and don’t show signs of rusting.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Strike King Red Eyed Shad Tungsten 2-Tap Lipless Crankbait, Sinking comes ready to fish right out of the package. However, the hooks can be upgraded to even higher-quality trebles if desired.
While there aren’t specific “customization” options in the traditional sense, the lure is compatible with any standard split rings and hooks. Some anglers might choose to add a trailer hook for extra hooking potential in heavy cover.
Pros and Cons of Strike King Red Eyed Shad Tungsten 2-Tap Lipless Crankbait, Sinking
Pros
- The unique 2-Tap sound triggers strikes when other lipless cranks fail.
- The premium paint jobs are incredibly durable.
- The VMC Vanadium Cone Cut hooks are sticky sharp and hold fish well.
- It casts exceptionally well, even in windy conditions.
- It is very user-friendly, suitable for beginners to experienced anglers.
Cons
- The sinking nature can make it prone to snagging in heavy cover.
- The price point is slightly higher than the standard Red Eyed Shad.
Who Should Buy Strike King Red Eyed Shad Tungsten 2-Tap Lipless Crankbait, Sinking?
The Strike King Red Eyed Shad Tungsten 2-Tap Lipless Crankbait, Sinking is perfect for anglers who:
- Fish in pressured waters where bass have seen every lure in the book.
- Want a lipless crankbait with a unique sound profile.
- Are looking for a durable and reliable lure that can withstand heavy use.
Anglers who primarily fish in extremely heavy cover or shallow water might find the sinking nature of this lure to be a disadvantage. Must-have modifications aren’t necessarily required, but upgrading to even sharper hooks can further enhance its performance.
Conclusion on Strike King Red Eyed Shad Tungsten 2-Tap Lipless Crankbait, Sinking
The Strike King Red Eyed Shad Tungsten 2-Tap Lipless Crankbait, Sinking is more than just a lipless crankbait; it’s a confidence-boosting tool that can put more fish in the boat. The unique sound, durable construction, and premium components justify the price.
I would definitely recommend this lure to any angler looking to add a versatile and effective lipless crankbait to their arsenal. Don’t hesitate; add the Strike King Red Eyed Shad Tungsten 2-Tap Lipless Crankbait, Sinking to your tackle box today and experience the difference!