Northland Fishing Tackle Tungsten Short Shank Jig Review

First Impressions of Northland Fishing Tackle Tungsten Short Shank Jig

The Northland Fishing Tackle Tungsten Short Shank Jig promises to be a game-changer in finesse fishing, and my initial handling of the product suggests it might just live up to the hype. The Northland Fishing Tackle brand has always been synonymous with innovation and quality in the fishing world, and this jig seems to continue that tradition. Its tungsten construction, combined with the short shank hook, immediately signals its intent: precision and sensitivity.

I’ve been increasingly frustrated with the limitations of traditional lead jigs, especially in deeper water or when dealing with finicky fish. They simply don’t transmit subtle strikes as well and their bulk can be a detriment when the fish are pressured. My hope is that the increased density and sensitivity of tungsten will give me an edge.

Upon receiving the Northland Fishing Tackle Tungsten Short Shank Jig, the first thing that struck me was its compact size. It’s noticeably smaller than a comparable lead jig, yet feels significantly heavier for its size. The build quality appears excellent, with a cleanly molded jig head and a very sharp Mustad Ultra Point hook. Compared to my older lead jigs from Generic Fishing Co., the finish is more refined, and the hook feels more robust. I also compared it to a VMC Tungsten Nymph Jig which is similarly priced but lacks the dual hook keepers. The Northland Fishing Tackle Tungsten Short Shank Jig immediately impressed me with its attention to detail.

I was immediately excited by the potential this little jig holds. It felt like a precision instrument, and I couldn’t wait to put it to the test on the water. Could this be the jig to finally crack that pattern of pressured fish?

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Real-World Testing: Putting Northland Fishing Tackle Tungsten Short Shank Jig to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Northland Fishing Tackle Tungsten Short Shank Jig was on a notoriously challenging lake known for its clear water and heavily pressured bass. I primarily targeted submerged weed lines and rocky bottom structures in 15-20 feet of water. The water was relatively clear, but a slight breeze created a bit of chop.

The difference between this jig and my old lead jigs was immediately apparent. The Northland Fishing Tackle Tungsten Short Shank Jig plummeted to the bottom much faster, allowing me to maintain contact and feel the structure with incredible sensitivity. Detecting subtle strikes was also significantly easier, resulting in a noticeable increase in hook-up ratio compared to using lead jigs.

I did experience one minor issue on my first trip: I noticed that the hook keeper sometimes struggled to hold onto very soft plastic baits after multiple casts and snags. However, adjusting the bait placement and using a dab of super glue solved the problem.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Northland Fishing Tackle Tungsten Short Shank Jig continues to perform admirably. The finish on the jig head has held up surprisingly well, showing only minor signs of wear despite being dragged across rocks and submerged timber. The Mustad Ultra Point hook remains incredibly sharp, requiring minimal sharpening.

Maintaining the jig is simple: a quick rinse with fresh water after each use prevents corrosion. I’ve noticed no degradation in performance over time. Comparing it to previous experiences with other jigs, the Northland Fishing Tackle Tungsten Short Shank Jig offers a significantly superior combination of sensitivity, hook-setting power, and durability.

Breaking Down the Features of Northland Fishing Tackle Tungsten Short Shank Jig

Specifications

• Tungsten Construction: The Northland Fishing Tackle Tungsten Short Shank Jig is molded from Tungsten, a material 30% denser than lead. This results in a faster fall rate and increased sensitivity, allowing anglers to feel bottom structure and subtle bites more effectively.
• Short-Shank Fire-Ball Jig Design: This design minimizes snagging and provides a compact presentation that entices fish. The short shank also increases hook-up ratio by concentrating force closer to the hook point.
• Premium Mustad Ultra Point Short-Shank Wide Gap Hook (Size 1/0): The Mustad Ultra Point hook is known for its exceptional sharpness and durability. The wide gap ensures solid hooksets, even with bulky soft plastics or live bait.
• Dual Hook Keepers: Two hook keepers securely hold soft plastic and live bait in place, preventing slippage and maximizing presentation. This is especially useful when fishing in current or around heavy cover.
• Red T Eyes: The distinctive red T eyes make it easy to distinguish tungsten jigs from lead jigs at a glance. This small detail is surprisingly helpful when switching between different jig types.

Performance & Functionality

The Northland Fishing Tackle Tungsten Short Shank Jig excels at its primary function: presenting bait precisely and transmitting subtle strikes. The increased sensitivity of the tungsten construction allows anglers to feel every bump, rock, and weed on the bottom, as well as the slightest nibbles from finicky fish. Its performance has been undeniably impressive during testing and is now a permanent addition to my tackle box.

The main strength lies in its sensitivity and hook-setting power. The tungsten construction and sharp hook combine to create a highly effective tool for catching fish, even in tough conditions. A potential weakness is that anglers may need to slightly adjust their presentation style if they are accustomed to the action and fall rate of lead jigs.

Design & Ergonomics

The Northland Fishing Tackle Tungsten Short Shank Jig boasts a well-thought-out design, prioritizing both functionality and aesthetics. The compact size and streamlined profile minimize drag and allow for precise bait placement. The jig head is cleanly molded and finished.

The weight feels balanced in hand, and the short shank hook doesn’t interfere with bait action. The dual hook keepers provide a secure hold on both soft plastics and live bait. While there is a small learning curve adjusting to the faster fall of tungsten, the benefits far outweigh any initial adaptation.

Durability & Maintenance

The tungsten construction of the Northland Fishing Tackle Tungsten Short Shank Jig is inherently durable, resisting chipping and deformation better than lead. The Mustad Ultra Point hook is also known for its longevity, maintaining its sharpness even after repeated use. With proper care (rinsing after each use and occasional hook sharpening), this jig should last for many seasons.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only a quick rinse with fresh water after each use to prevent corrosion. The hook can be sharpened as needed with a hook file.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Northland Fishing Tackle Tungsten Short Shank Jig itself doesn’t come with additional accessories beyond what is described in the Specifications section. However, its design allows for easy customization with a variety of soft plastic trailers and live bait options. Its size is also adaptable to different types of waters and species of fish, including crappie and panfish.

It’s compatible with virtually any soft plastic bait designed for jig fishing, including worms, craws, tubes, and swimbaits. Anglers can also experiment with different colors and sizes of soft plastics to match local forage and water conditions.

Pros and Cons of Northland Fishing Tackle Tungsten Short Shank Jig

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Who Should Buy Northland Fishing Tackle Tungsten Short Shank Jig?

The Northland Fishing Tackle Tungsten Short Shank Jig is perfect for anglers who fish pressured waters, target finicky fish, or want to maximize sensitivity and hook-setting power. It is equally well-suited for both experienced anglers and beginners who want to improve their finesse fishing techniques. Those who want to focus on fishing rather than constantly replacing lost lures should purchase this product.

Anglers primarily fishing in shallow, snag-free waters may not fully appreciate the benefits of the Northland Fishing Tackle Tungsten Short Shank Jig. Similarly, anglers on a tight budget might find the price of tungsten jigs prohibitive compared to lead options.

Must-have accessories include a quality fluorocarbon line to further enhance sensitivity and a variety of soft plastic trailers to match local forage and water conditions. A hook sharpener is also recommended to maintain the hook’s razor-sharp point.

Conclusion on Northland Fishing Tackle Tungsten Short Shank Jig

The Northland Fishing Tackle Tungsten Short Shank Jig is an exceptional product that delivers on its promise of increased sensitivity, faster fall rate, and superior hook-setting power. While the price may be higher than traditional lead jigs, the performance benefits far outweigh the cost. The Northland Fishing Tackle brand has truly outdone itself.

The value proposition is clear: anglers willing to invest in quality gear will be rewarded with a noticeable increase in fishing success. I would wholeheartedly recommend the Northland Fishing Tackle Tungsten Short Shank Jig to any angler looking to elevate their finesse fishing game. Don’t just fish, feel the difference. Grab a pack and experience the sensitivity for yourself – you won’t be disappointed!