First Impressions of Bill Lewis MR 12 Soft Bait
The Bill Lewis MR 12 Soft Bait promises to be a game-changer for anglers targeting mid-depth bass, and as a seasoned outdoor specialist and avid fisherman, I was eager to put it to the test. Developed by Bill Lewis, known for their effective crankbaits, the MR 12 aims to trigger strikes from bass holding in that crucial 12-foot range. The promise of deep-diving capabilities, coupled with the classic Bill Lewis action, made this bait an immediate must-try.
I was looking for a reliable soft bait that could consistently reach and maintain the 10-15 foot depth, where I’ve noticed larger bass often hold up, especially during the summer months. Upon receiving the Bill Lewis MR 12 Soft Bait, my first impression was positive. The bait had a familiar shad profile, much like the MR-6, but with a slightly more robust feel, suggesting it could handle the rigors of deeper water fishing.
Compared to other soft swimbaits I’ve used, like the Zoom Swimmer or the Strike King Swim’n Caffeine Shad, the Bill Lewis MR 12 Soft Bait seemed to have a denser, more durable construction. I chose this one because I trust the Bill Lewis name and was looking for a soft bait that would hold up to repeated casts and strikes. Initially, I was excited to see if the MR 12 could live up to its reputation and deliver consistent results in deeper water.
Real-World Testing: Putting Bill Lewis MR 12 Soft Bait to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Bill Lewis MR 12 Soft Bait on Lake Fork, Texas, a renowned bass fishing destination known for its deep structure and clear water. The conditions were partly cloudy with a slight breeze, ideal for crankbait fishing. I focused on areas with submerged timber and rock piles in the 10-14 foot range.
The bait performed admirably, reaching the target depth relatively quickly with a medium retrieve. I found that pairing it with a 12-lb fluorocarbon line helped it get down efficiently. After about an hour, I hooked my first bass of the day, a solid 4-pounder that hammered the bait as it bounced off a submerged log.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Bill Lewis MR 12 Soft Bait has proven to be a reliable and effective tool in my tackle box. The soft plastic material has held up surprisingly well. I’ve only had to replace a few baits due to wear and tear from aggressive strikes or getting snagged on structure.
Maintaining the bait is simple, requiring only a quick rinse after each use to remove any algae or debris. Compared to other soft baits I’ve used in the past, the MR 12 has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and fish-catching ability. It has become my go-to bait when targeting bass in that mid-depth range.
Breaking Down the Features of Bill Lewis MR 12 Soft Bait
Specifications
The Bill Lewis MR 12 Soft Bait boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance. It is designed by Bill Lewis to dive to 12-feet and beyond with lighter fluorocarbon lines. The lure type is a shad-style soft bait.
It comes in a quantity of 1 per pack, with a length of 2.5 inches. It is designed for freshwater environments. It uses a bait holder hook type. Its attachment type is a hook. These specs are significant because they dictate the depth range, action, and overall presentation of the bait, making it ideal for targeting bass in specific conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Bill Lewis MR 12 Soft Bait excels at its primary job: attracting and catching bass in the mid-depth range. Its tight wiggling action, combined with the signature Bill Lewis low-pitch knock, triggers strikes from even the most finicky fish. I found it particularly effective when targeting bass holding near structure, such as submerged timber, rock piles, and ledges.
One of its strengths is its ability to maintain a consistent depth throughout the retrieve. This is crucial for covering water efficiently and presenting the bait in the strike zone for an extended period. However, the single bait per pack can be a drawback, requiring more frequent replacements compared to other soft baits that come in larger quantities. Overall, the Bill Lewis MR 12 Soft Bait meets and often exceeds my expectations for a mid-depth soft bait.
Design & Ergonomics
The Bill Lewis MR 12 Soft Bait features a streamlined shad profile that closely mimics the appearance of common forage fish. Its body is crafted from a durable yet pliable soft plastic material that provides a lifelike feel and action in the water. The weight and density of the bait are well-balanced, allowing for long and accurate casts.
The bait is easy to rig on a variety of hook styles, including weighted swimbait hooks and Texas-rigged EWG hooks. There is virtually no learning curve associated with using the MR 12, making it accessible to anglers of all skill levels.
Durability & Maintenance
The Bill Lewis MR 12 Soft Bait is designed to withstand the rigors of fishing in heavy cover and around abrasive structure. While no soft bait is completely indestructible, the MR 12 holds up reasonably well to repeated strikes and snags. With proper care, each bait can last for multiple fishing trips.
Maintaining the bait is simple. Just rinse it with fresh water after each use and store it in a dry tackle box to prevent deterioration.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Bill Lewis MR 12 Soft Bait doesn’t come with any additional accessories in the package, but it can be easily customized with a variety of aftermarket options. Anglers can experiment with different hook styles and sizes to fine-tune the bait’s action and presentation. Some anglers also like to add scent attractants to further enhance its appeal.
The Bill Lewis MR 12 Soft Bait is compatible with a wide range of swimbait hooks, including those from brands like Owner, Gamakatsu, and Mustad. This versatility allows anglers to tailor the bait to their specific fishing conditions and preferences.
Pros and Cons of Bill Lewis MR 12 Soft Bait
Pros
- Effective Mid-Depth Presentation: Excellently targets bass holding in the 10-14 foot range.
- Realistic Action: Tight wiggling action and low-pitch knock attract strikes.
- Durable Construction: Holds up well to repeated use and aggressive strikes.
- Versatile Rigging Options: Can be rigged on a variety of hook styles.
- Trusted Brand: Backed by the reputation of Bill Lewis.
Cons
- Single Bait Per Pack: Requires more frequent replacements.
- Limited Color Options: Could benefit from a wider range of color patterns.
Who Should Buy Bill Lewis MR 12 Soft Bait?
The Bill Lewis MR 12 Soft Bait is perfect for anglers targeting bass in the mid-depth range, particularly those fishing around structure. It’s also a great choice for anglers who appreciate the quality and effectiveness of Bill Lewis products. It’s a must-have for pro anglers who need a reliable bait to target key depth zones during tournaments.
Anglers who primarily fish in shallow water or prefer larger-profile baits might want to skip this product. A weighted swimbait hook is a must-have accessory to get the most out of the Bill Lewis MR 12 Soft Bait, as well as a selection of fluorocarbon lines in varying strengths.
Conclusion on Bill Lewis MR 12 Soft Bait
The Bill Lewis MR 12 Soft Bait is a well-designed and effective soft bait that delivers on its promise of targeting bass in the mid-depth range. Its realistic action, durable construction, and versatile rigging options make it a valuable addition to any angler’s tackle box. At $8.95, the price is justified by its performance and reliability.
I would personally recommend the Bill Lewis MR 12 Soft Bait to any angler looking to improve their mid-depth bass fishing game. Don’t wait, add this bait to your arsenal and experience the thrill of hooking into those deeper water bass!