First Impressions of Reef Runner Cicada Blade Lure
The Reef Runner Cicada Blade Lure promises to be an effective and versatile addition to any angler’s tackle box. Reef Runner has a reputation for creating lures that perform, and this compact blade bait seems poised to live up to that standard. The allure of a lure priced at just $4.49 that can potentially entice a variety of fish species is certainly appealing, sparking my interest immediately.
My fishing trips often involve tackling murky waters and varying depths, requiring lures that can effectively attract fish in less-than-ideal conditions. I was looking for a compact, sinking lure with a strong vibration and flash, hoping to trigger strikes from bass, walleye, and even panfish. Having used other blade baits with success in the past, I was curious to see how the Reef Runner Cicada Blade Lure stacked up against the competition, particularly given its incredibly affordable price point.
Upon receiving the Reef Runner Cicada Blade Lure, I was immediately struck by its compact size and simple design. The finish seemed adequate for the price, and the blade itself felt securely attached. The lure felt lighter than some of my other blade baits, raising initial questions about its casting distance and sink rate. Compared to the more expensive SteelShad or the heavier Heddon Sonar, the Reef Runner Cicada Blade Lure felt almost minimalist, but this simplicity also held a certain appeal.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. While the lure’s construction seemed solid enough, I was eager to put it to the test and see how it performed in the water. I definitely felt surprised given it’s low price point, and hopeful that I had found a very inexpensive and effective lure to recommend.
Real-World Testing: Putting Reef Runner Cicada Blade Lure to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Reef Runner Cicada Blade Lure on a local lake known for its diverse fish population, including bass, crappie, and walleye. The weather was overcast with a slight chop on the water, conditions that often favor blade baits. I primarily used a cast-and-retrieve technique, varying the retrieve speed and depth to see how the lure performed.
The Reef Runner Cicada Blade Lure casted reasonably well, although its lighter weight meant that it didn’t achieve the same distance as heavier blade baits. It sank quickly, allowing me to effectively target fish at different depths. The lure exhibited a decent vibration on the retrieve, but it wasn’t as pronounced as some of my other blade baits. After about an hour of fishing, I finally hooked into a decent-sized crappie, which was encouraging.
The initial outing revealed that the Reef Runner Cicada Blade Lure could indeed catch fish, but it required a more deliberate presentation than some of its competitors.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Reef Runner Cicada Blade Lure in various conditions, I have a better understanding of its strengths and weaknesses. The lure has proven surprisingly durable, with the blade and paint holding up well despite repeated use. I’ve caught several more crappie, a few small bass, and even a curious perch on it.
However, I’ve also noticed that the lure’s hooks are not the sharpest, requiring occasional sharpening to ensure solid hooksets. The finish, while durable, is prone to scratching, especially when fished around rocks or heavy cover. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a quick rinse with fresh water after each use. Compared to some of my more expensive blade baits, the Reef Runner Cicada Blade Lure doesn’t offer the same level of performance or refinement, but it’s a solid option for its price.
Breaking Down the Features of Reef Runner Cicada Blade Lure
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Reef Runner. Reef Runner is known for its walleye trolling spoons, but they offer other effective lures.
- Lure Type: Blade Baits. Blade baits are known for their vibration and flash, attracting a wide variety of fish.
- Running Depth: Sinks. The sinking nature of this lure allows it to target various depths effectively.
- Lure Type: Cast and Retrieve. This lure is designed for a simple and effective cast-and-retrieve technique.
These specifications translate to a lure that is easy to use and can be effective in a variety of situations. The sinking design and cast-and-retrieve technique make it suitable for both beginners and experienced anglers.
Performance & Functionality
The Reef Runner Cicada Blade Lure performs adequately for its intended purpose. It effectively attracts fish with its vibration and flash, but it may require a more deliberate presentation to trigger strikes. The lure’s strengths lie in its affordability and ease of use, while its weaknesses include its relatively light weight and less-pronounced vibration.
It meets expectations for a lure in its price range but doesn’t exceed them. Anglers seeking top-tier performance may want to consider more expensive options.
Design & Ergonomics
The Reef Runner Cicada Blade Lure features a simple and compact design. The materials used are adequate for the price, and the lure feels reasonably durable in hand. There is no learning curve associated with this lure, making it user-friendly for anglers of all skill levels.
Durability & Maintenance
The lure’s durability is surprisingly good, given its low price. The blade and paint hold up well to repeated use, although the finish is prone to scratching. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only a quick rinse with fresh water after each use to prevent corrosion.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Reef Runner Cicada Blade Lure doesn’t come with any specific accessories. However, anglers can easily customize it by adding split rings or swapping out the hooks for sharper or stronger options. The lure is compatible with standard split rings and hooks, making customization simple and straightforward.
Pros and Cons of Reef Runner Cicada Blade Lure
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to all anglers.
- Effective vibration and flash attract a variety of fish species.
- Durable construction holds up well to repeated use.
- Easy to use, requiring no specialized techniques.
- Sinking design allows for targeting fish at different depths.
Cons
- Hooks are not the sharpest and may require occasional sharpening.
- Lighter weight limits casting distance compared to heavier blade baits.
Who Should Buy Reef Runner Cicada Blade Lure?
The Reef Runner Cicada Blade Lure is perfect for anglers on a budget, beginners looking for an easy-to-use lure, or those who want to add a versatile blade bait to their tackle box without breaking the bank. It is also a good choice for anglers who fish in areas with a high risk of losing lures, as its low cost makes it less painful to lose. Anglers seeking top-tier performance or those targeting very large fish may want to consider more expensive options.
A must-have modification would be upgrading the hooks to a higher quality, sharper set.
Conclusion on Reef Runner Cicada Blade Lure
The Reef Runner Cicada Blade Lure offers solid performance and versatility at an unbeatable price. While it may not be the most refined or feature-rich blade bait on the market, it gets the job done, attracting fish and holding up well to repeated use. The price is certainly justified, making it an excellent value for budget-conscious anglers.
I would personally recommend it to anglers of all skill levels who are looking for an affordable and effective blade bait. Add the Reef Runner Cicada Blade Lure to your tackle box today and experience the thrill of catching fish without emptying your wallet!