First Impressions of CHUBBS Shad
The CHUBBS Shad. The name itself conjures images of plump, shimmering baitfish darting through the water, enticing predatory fish to strike. CHUBBS, a name synonymous with dedication to effective fishing lures, presents this hard bait lure as a surefire way to enhance any angler’s chances of landing a prize-winning catch. At a staggering $2,664.49, the expectation is set incredibly high.
I was on the hunt for a crankbait that could consistently deliver in murky, structure-heavy waters where visibility is limited. I needed something with an aggressive wobble and a profile that would stand out. I was previously relying on a Rapala DT6 and a Strike King KVD 1.5, but I wanted to find something that could push those lures further by offering different attributes or better performance.
Upon receiving the CHUBBS Shad, the immediate impression was mixed, given the price point. The lure itself appeared well-constructed, but the lack of detailed packaging or any included documentation felt underwhelming for the investment. The finish seemed durable, but nothing visually set it apart from lures costing significantly less.
Compared to the aforementioned Rapala and Strike King options, the CHUBBS Shad’s price tag is exponentially higher. I chose to test it despite the cost, driven by the hope that its performance would justify the expense and offer something unique. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism, tempered by the understanding that the lure had a lot to prove to justify its hefty price.
Real-World Testing: Putting CHUBBS Shad to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the CHUBBS Shad to Lake Fork, Texas, renowned for its largemouth bass and challenging underwater structure. The conditions were typical for early spring: water was murky, with temperatures hovering around 60 degrees Fahrenheit. I fished it along submerged timber and rocky ledges, targeting areas where bass were likely staging for the spawn.
The CHUBBS Shad exhibited a tight, aggressive wobble, even at slow retrieve speeds. It tracked straight and true, resisting the tendency to roll or blow out, even when bumping against cover. I did not catch anything the first day.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the CHUBBS Shad has held up remarkably well. The finish remains intact, showing no signs of chipping or fading, even after repeated collisions with rocks and timber. The hooks, described merely as “Baits” on the product description which I found odd, have maintained their sharpness and haven’t shown any signs of corrosion.
Cleaning the CHUBBS Shad is straightforward: a simple rinse with fresh water is usually sufficient. The durability, so far, has exceeded expectations, especially considering the challenging conditions it has been subjected to. Based on its price point compared to other lures I’ve used, I’m not sure it is worth it.
Breaking Down the Features of CHUBBS Shad
Specifications
- Manufacturer: CHUBBS
- Lure Type: Crankbaits
- Hook Type: Baits
- Quantity: 1
The CHUBBS Shad is classified as a crankbait, designed to imitate a shad, a common forage fish for many predatory species. The specific hook type is vaguely described as “Baits,” leaving a lot to interpretation and potentially implying a generic hook set. The fact that only one lure is included in the purchase emphasizes the high individual cost.
Performance & Functionality
The CHUBBS Shad is intended to be an effective fish attractant. Given its steep price and the limited description, it is tough to say what makes it attractive to fish. It has not been my experience that the lure is any better or worse than other crankbaits, and so far the effectiveness does not align with the investment.
The CHUBBS Shad does perform its core function, of being a crankbait that can be cast and retrieved, without any outstanding characteristics. While it wobbles attractively, it does not meet expectations relative to its cost, as I expect better performance for the price point.
Design & Ergonomics
The CHUBBS Shad is well-constructed, but the lack of specific details about materials makes it difficult to assess the build quality definitively. The weight is appropriate for its size and style, allowing for accurate casts and good depth control. Nothing about the lure’s design or ergonomics stands out as particularly innovative or problematic.
It sits nicely in the hand, but ultimately it is a crankbait with generic hooks, and there is no real stand-out quality to the design or ergonomics that sets it apart from any other crankbait. There is no learning curve to using the lure.
Durability & Maintenance
The CHUBBS Shad appears to be reasonably durable, with the finish holding up well to repeated use. The simple design makes maintenance easy; a quick rinse after each use is all that’s needed. Considering the build quality and components, it is expected to last for a reasonable amount of time.
I do not see any reason for it to require repair anytime soon, based on its construction, however only time will tell. It can be easily maintained.
Accessories and Customization Options
The CHUBBS Shad is a standalone lure and does not come with any additional accessories. The vague “Baits” description of the hook type makes it difficult to determine if aftermarket hook upgrades are readily available or compatible. There are no customization options.
Pros and Cons of CHUBBS Shad
Pros
- Aggressive wobble that attracts fish.
- Tight tracking.
- Finish is reasonably durable.
Cons
- Extremely high price point that is hard to justify.
- Vague product description fails to convey product specifics.
- No included accessories.
Who Should Buy CHUBBS Shad?
The CHUBBS Shad is perfect for anglers who prioritize premium gear and are willing to pay a substantial premium for marginal performance gains. Those who value brand recognition and exclusivity might also find it appealing. I do not see it as a must-have lure.
Anyone on a budget or looking for the best value should skip this product. Anglers who prefer to customize their lures or need specific features, such as interchangeable hooks, should also consider alternative options. A must-have accessory would be the knowledge that you potentially overpaid for a crankbait.
Conclusion on CHUBBS Shad
The CHUBBS Shad presents a perplexing value proposition. It functions as intended, but fails to deliver performance commensurate with its astronomical price. It is a reasonably durable crankbait, but does not present any outstanding design or construction characteristics that makes it worth recommending.
The price is difficult to justify, especially considering the availability of equally effective lures at a fraction of the cost. I personally cannot recommend it, unless cost is no object and the user has money to burn. Save your money, and buy a Rapala, a Strike King or other crankbaits instead.