First Impressions of Swedish Pimple 1/3 oz Jigging Lure
The Swedish Pimple 1/3 oz Jigging Lure – the name alone conjures images of frosty Scandinavian lakes and hard-fighting fish. Swedish Pimple, the manufacturer, boasts over a century of heritage, claiming this lure has tempted fish in both fresh and saltwater environments. Priced at a surprisingly high $3,406.99, this little piece of brass promises to be more than just a shiny object; it’s an investment in angling success, or at least, that’s what I’m hoping to find out.
I’ve been chasing lake trout through the ice for years, and I’ve always struggled to find a jig that combines the right action with the necessary flash to attract those deep-water predators. Tired of relying on the same old spoons and rattling baits, I was drawn to the Swedish Pimple’s classic design and promise of versatility. Could this seemingly simple lure truly outperform the modern, high-tech options on the market?
The lure itself is surprisingly simple: a solid brass body, a single treble hook at the bottom, and a small hole at the top for attaching your line. The finish is bright and reflective, hinting at its potential to draw fish from a distance. Holding it in my hand, the build quality feels solid, if basic, giving me a sense of confidence that it can withstand the abuse of repeated jigging and the tug of a sizable fish.
Compared to other jigs I own, like the Northland Buck-Shot Rattle Spoon and the Acme Kastmaster, the Swedish Pimple stands out for its minimalist design. Both the Northland and Acme lures rely on rattles or intricate shapes to attract fish, while the Swedish Pimple depends on its action and flash. I chose the Swedish Pimple hoping its subtle presentation would be more effective in clear water and for finicky fish. My first impression? I’m cautiously optimistic, but at this price point, it better catch fish.
Real-World Testing: Putting Swedish Pimple 1/3 oz Jigging Lure to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Swedish Pimple 1/3 oz Jigging Lure was on a frigid January morning on Lake Champlain, targeting lake trout through the ice. The conditions were harsh, with air temperatures hovering around 0°F and a stiff wind whipping across the frozen surface. I drilled a series of holes in varying depths, ranging from 40 to 80 feet, to locate the fish.
The Swedish Pimple proved easy to use, requiring minimal effort to impart a tantalizing jigging action. Its weight allowed it to plummet quickly to the bottom, even in the strong current. I experimented with different jigging patterns: short, erratic twitches; long, slow lifts; and aggressive rips, observing how the lure responded to each technique.
The only initial issue was remembering to keep the line taut to detect strikes. I missed several subtle takes in the first hour, a testament to how efficiently the lure transmits movement.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Swedish Pimple 1/3 oz Jigging Lure has proven to be a reliable and surprisingly effective fishing tool. I’ve used it in a variety of freshwater environments, from clear, deep lakes to murky, shallow rivers, and it has consistently produced fish. The solid brass construction has held up remarkably well, showing only minor scratches and wear despite frequent use.
Maintaining the lure is incredibly simple: a quick rinse with fresh water after each use is all that’s required to prevent corrosion. The treble hook remains sharp after numerous encounters with rocky bottoms and toothy fish. Compared to some of the more delicate lures I own, the Swedish Pimple is a workhorse, built to withstand the rigors of hard-water fishing.
It certainly outperforms cheaper, more flimsy jigs, but at its cost, it should. However, I do find myself questioning if the price equates to the performance jump between this lure and a $5 – $10 alternative.
Breaking Down the Features of Swedish Pimple 1/3 oz Jigging Lure
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Swedish Pimple
- Tackle Weight: 1/3 oz
- Length: 1 – 7/8 in
- Water Type: Saltwater, Freshwater
These specifications are crucial for jigging. The 1/3 oz weight allows it to sink quickly and maintain contact in deeper water or currents, perfect for targeting bottom-dwelling species. The 1-7/8 inch length is a good size for attracting a variety of fish species without being too intimidating. The fact that it works in both fresh and saltwater expands its versatility.
Performance & Functionality
The Swedish Pimple 1/3 oz Jigging Lure performs admirably, excelling at attracting fish with its simple yet effective jigging action. Its ability to sink quickly and maintain contact with the bottom is invaluable in deep water or strong currents. The lure’s reflective finish creates an enticing flash that attracts fish from a distance, while its compact size makes it appealing to a wide range of species.
The strength lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. The price however, is an enormous point to consider, and one may be able to find alternatives which produce the same results for less.
Design & Ergonomics
The Swedish Pimple’s design is a testament to its enduring popularity: a simple, streamlined brass body with a single treble hook. The lure is comfortable to handle, with a smooth finish that prevents line tangles. While basic, the design is incredibly functional, allowing for a wide range of jigging techniques.
There is no learning curve. Anyone who has jigged before can pick it up and fish effectively immediately.
Durability & Maintenance
The Swedish Pimple 1/3 oz Jigging Lure’s solid brass construction ensures its longevity. With proper care, this lure should last for years, even with frequent use in harsh conditions. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only a quick rinse after each use to prevent corrosion.
Replacing the treble hook is easy and straightforward, ensuring the lure remains in optimal fishing condition. You are paying a premium price, it should last a long time.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Swedish Pimple 1/3 oz Jigging Lure doesn’t come with any additional accessories. Customization is limited to changing the treble hook to a different size or style, or adding a small split ring to attach a trailer, such as a soft plastic grub or a feathered tail. It is compatible with standard-size treble hooks and split rings, making customization easy and accessible.
Pros and Cons of Swedish Pimple 1/3 oz Jigging Lure
Pros
- Solid brass construction for excellent durability.
- Versatile jigging action that attracts a variety of fish species.
- Effective in both freshwater and saltwater environments.
- Simple design makes it easy to use for anglers of all skill levels.
- Compact size is appealing to a wide range of fish.
Cons
- The price is exorbitantly high at $3,406.99.
- Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy Swedish Pimple 1/3 oz Jigging Lure?
This lure is perfect for the angler that needs something reliable and long lasting. It’s easy to use, and durable which makes it perfect for anglers in harsh environments. However, those looking for value are going to want to skip this lure.
You’ll want to pick up a pair of pliers to help with hook removal.
Conclusion on Swedish Pimple 1/3 oz Jigging Lure
The Swedish Pimple 1/3 oz Jigging Lure is a capable and durable fishing lure with a rich history. It’s effective in both fresh and saltwater, easy to use, and built to last. But I cannot emphasize this enough, the price tag is simply outrageous.
The value proposition is nonexistent. There is absolutely no justification for charging $3,406.99 for a small brass jig. While it catches fish and is well-made, there are countless similar lures on the market that perform just as well for a fraction of the cost.
I would not personally recommend buying the Swedish Pimple 1/3 oz Jigging Lure at this price. Unless you have money to burn and a strong desire to own a piece of fishing history, there are far better ways to spend your money on angling gear. Save your money and buy a comparable jig or 200 instead.