Custom Jigs Pro Series Slender Spoon Review

First Impressions of Custom Jigs Pro Series Slender Spoon

The Custom Jigs Pro Series Slender Spoon has carved out a reputation in the ice fishing world for its ability to trigger strikes when other lures fall flat. Manufactured by Custom Jigs, this spoon promises an erratic flutter that entices even the most finicky fish. My interest in this lure stemmed from a need to find a more effective presentation for pressured panfish in my local lakes.

I was seeking a lure that could offer a different action than my typical tungsten jigs. Countless hours spent on the ice, often with minimal success while others around me were hauling in fish, pushed me to seek out a proven alternative. The Custom Jigs Pro Series Slender Spoon seemed to be the answer, with its promise of a unique flutter action and forage-matching color options.

Unboxing the Slender Spoon revealed a well-finished lure with a noticeable shimmer, inspiring confidence. The paint job appeared durable, and the VMC Spark Point hook felt incredibly sharp to the touch. Compared to similar flutter spoons from brands like Acme or Northland, the Custom Jigs version seemed to have a slightly more refined profile and a wider range of color patterns.

I chose the Custom Jigs Pro Series Slender Spoon over others primarily due to its reputation for triggering strikes in tough conditions. The promise of twenty different patterns, including forage-matching options for the various baitfish present in my local waters, sealed the deal. My initial impression was excitement, tempered with the realistic expectations born from years of fishing – I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Custom Jigs Pro Series Slender Spoon to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Custom Jigs Pro Series Slender Spoon was on a frigid January morning on Lake Simcoe, targeting whitefish and lake trout through the ice. I focused on depths ranging from 40 to 60 feet, where I suspected fish were holding. The lure immediately exhibited its signature erratic flutter on the descent, even with a slight breeze affecting my line.

The flutter action proved effective, enticing a curious lake trout within the first hour. Even in the dim underwater environment, the spoon’s shimmer was noticeable, and the erratic fall seemed to pique the interest of the fish. No issues presented themselves during initial use, it felt as though this bait could be a game changer.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use in various ice fishing scenarios, the Custom Jigs Pro Series Slender Spoon has proven to be a reliable performer. The paint has held up surprisingly well despite repeated contact with ice and the occasional toothy predator. Maintenance has been minimal; a quick rinse with water after each trip is usually sufficient.

Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper spoons, the Custom Jigs lure demonstrates superior build quality and more consistent action. It has not only met my expectations but, in some instances, exceeded them by producing strikes when other lures failed. The Custom Jigs Pro Series Slender Spoon has earned a permanent spot in my ice fishing tackle box.

Breaking Down the Features of Custom Jigs Pro Series Slender Spoon

Specifications

The Custom Jigs Pro Series Slender Spoon is available in weights ranging from 1/16th to 5/16th of an ounce, offering versatility for various depths and target species. The dimensions listed on the packaging state 5 inches in length, 2 inches in width, and 1 inch in height. The lure features a slender profile designed to mimic the shape of common forage fish.

The Custom Jigs Pro Series Slender Spoon is equipped with VMC Spark Point hooks, renowned for their sharpness and holding power. The Custom Jigs Pro Series Slender Spoon is available in twenty different paint patterns, with gold or nickel backs, catering to a wide range of water conditions and forage preferences. These specifications matter because they allow anglers to fine-tune their presentation based on the specific conditions and target species.

Performance & Functionality

The Custom Jigs Pro Series Slender Spoon excels at triggering strikes from finicky fish, thanks to its erratic flutter on the fall. The wide range of color patterns allows anglers to “match the hatch,” increasing their chances of success. The lure is not without limitations; its lightweight design can be challenging to use in windy conditions or deep water.

The Custom Jigs Pro Series Slender Spoon meets and often exceeds expectations, especially when targeting panfish and trout in relatively shallow water. The action is consistent, and the hookup ratio is high, thanks to the sharp VMC Spark Point hooks. The Custom Jigs Pro Series Slender Spoon is a well-designed and effective lure.

Design & Ergonomics

The Custom Jigs Pro Series Slender Spoon boasts a sleek, slender profile that mimics the shape of many common baitfish. The lure feels well-balanced in hand, and the high-quality paint finish adds to its overall appeal. There is no learning curve associated with using this lure; it is ready to fish right out of the package.

Durability & Maintenance

The Custom Jigs Pro Series Slender Spoon appears to be built to last, with a durable paint finish and high-quality components. With proper care, the lure should withstand repeated use without significant wear and tear. Maintenance is simple; a quick rinse with water after each use is all that is typically required.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Custom Jigs Pro Series Slender Spoon doesn’t come with any additional accessories, focusing solely on the lure itself. The primary customization option is the ability to swap out the included VMC Spark Point hook for a different size or style, depending on the target species and fishing conditions. The Custom Jigs Pro Series Slender Spoon is compatible with most standard split rings and hooks, allowing for easy customization.

Pros and Cons of Custom Jigs Pro Series Slender Spoon

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Who Should Buy Custom Jigs Pro Series Slender Spoon?

The Custom Jigs Pro Series Slender Spoon is perfect for ice anglers targeting panfish, trout, and other predatory species in relatively shallow to moderately deep water. It’s also a great choice for anglers who fish pressured waters where fish have become accustomed to more common lure presentations. Anglers targeting open water species such as walleye, bass, and pike would also find the Custom Jigs Pro Series Slender Spoon to be a valuable addition to their tackle arsenal.

Anglers primarily fishing in deep water or consistently dealing with strong winds may find the lightweight design of the Custom Jigs Pro Series Slender Spoon to be limiting. They might be better served by heavier spoons or jigging minnows that offer more control in challenging conditions. A must-have accessory is a quality fluorocarbon leader to minimize line visibility and maximize strike detection.

Conclusion on Custom Jigs Pro Series Slender Spoon

The Custom Jigs Pro Series Slender Spoon is a well-designed and effective lure that lives up to its reputation for triggering strikes in tough conditions. Its erratic flutter action, combined with a wide range of forage-matching color patterns, makes it a versatile tool for anglers targeting a variety of species. The lure’s durability and affordable price further enhance its value proposition.

At $7.99, the price is more than justified, considering the performance and versatility offered by the Custom Jigs Pro Series Slender Spoon. I would personally recommend it to any angler looking to add a proven fish-catching lure to their arsenal. If you’re ready to catch more fish, give the Custom Jigs Pro Series Slender Spoon a try – you won’t be disappointed.