What Makes Mirrolure Top Dog Jr. Stand Out?
The Mirrolure Top Dog Jr. is a saltwater topwater lure designed to entice strikes with its “walk the dog” action. Manufactured by Mirrolure, this smaller version of the classic Top Dog boasts a tantalizing rattle, lifelike features, and a proven track record for attracting predatory fish. It’s a lure that’s been whispered about in angling circles for years, a go-to choice for seasoned anglers targeting redfish and other inshore species.
I was on the hunt for a new topwater lure to add to my arsenal. I’d been consistently getting blown up by reds on sub-surface baits but wanted that exhilarating topwater strike. The Mirrolure Top Dog Jr. kept popping up in forums and recommendations, so I decided to give it a try.
Upon unboxing, the Top Dog Jr. immediately impressed me. The 3/4 oz weight felt substantial but balanced, and the finish was remarkably detailed. The red 3-D eyes are incredibly striking, and the realistic gill and scale patterns give it a natural appearance in the water.
I considered the Heddon Super Spook Jr. and the Yo-Zuri 3DB Pencil. Both are excellent lures, but the Mirrolure Top Dog Jr. won out due to its reputation for reliability and the specific rattle sound that many anglers swore by for attracting redfish in my local waters. I also liked that the Mirrolure has more subtle color patterns versus the louder patterns available from other brands.
My initial impression was excitement. This lure looked and felt like a quality piece of equipment, and I was eager to see how it performed on the water. I had high hopes that the Mirrolure Top Dog Jr. would become a key weapon in my saltwater fishing adventures.
Real-World Testing: Putting Mirrolure Top Dog Jr. to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Mirrolure Top Dog Jr. took place in the shallow flats of Mosquito Lagoon in Florida. The water was relatively clear, with a light chop, and I was targeting redfish cruising the grass lines. I tied on the lure with a loop knot to maximize its walking action.
The Top Dog Jr. performed flawlessly in the conditions. The “walk the dog” action was easy to achieve with a rhythmic twitch of my rod tip. It didn’t take long before I had a massive explosion on the surface, resulting in a solid hookup and a beautiful slot-sized redfish.
The only issue I experienced was a slight learning curve in adjusting my retrieve speed to get the optimal action. Once I dialed it in, though, the lure was irresistible to the fish. It didn’t take long to learn.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Mirrolure Top Dog Jr. has proven to be a reliable and durable lure. The finish has held up surprisingly well, even after being repeatedly slammed against oyster beds and mangrove roots. There are some scratches, but the core paint hasn’t chipped.
The hooks remain sharp, and the lure continues to produce strikes. I make sure to rinse it with freshwater after each use to prevent corrosion, but otherwise, maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe-down after use and periodic hook sharpening is all that’s required.
Compared to other topwater lures I’ve used in the past, the Mirrolure Top Dog Jr. consistently outperforms them in terms of strike ratio and durability. It’s become my go-to lure for targeting redfish and speckled trout in shallow saltwater environments. The action is simply better than anything else I’ve tried.
Breaking Down the Features of Mirrolure Top Dog Jr.
Specifications
The Mirrolure Top Dog Jr. boasts several key specifications that contribute to its effectiveness:
- Lure Weight: 3/4 oz. This weight provides excellent casting distance and allows the lure to sit properly in the water for optimal action.
- Length: 4 inches. The 4-inch profile is an ideal size for attracting a variety of saltwater gamefish.
- Hooks: Two treble hooks. Two strategically placed treble hooks ensure a high hookup ratio.
- Water Type: Saltwater. The lure is specifically designed for saltwater environments and constructed with corrosion-resistant components.
- Features: Hard Bait, Redfish, 4 in. This emphasizes the lure’s construction type, target species, and overall length.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the lure’s performance. The weight allows for long casts, the size attracts a wide range of fish, and the saltwater-specific design ensures durability in harsh conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Mirrolure Top Dog Jr. excels at its primary function: attracting fish with its realistic “walk the dog” action and enticing rattle. The lure is incredibly responsive to rod tip movements, allowing for precise control over its presentation. It is a highly effective fish catcher.
Its strengths lie in its realistic appearance, enticing action, and proven track record. The only potential weakness is that it requires a bit of practice to master the “walk the dog” retrieve.
The Mirrolure Top Dog Jr. consistently exceeds my expectations. It’s a reliable lure that produces strikes even when other lures fail. It’s a must-have in my tackle box.
Design & Ergonomics
The Mirrolure Top Dog Jr. is well-designed and built with high-quality materials. The construction feels solid and durable, and the lure sits perfectly balanced in the water. Its profile and design look realistic and very appealing.
The lure is user-friendly, although mastering the “walk the dog” action takes some practice. Once you get the hang of it, the lure is easy to control and produces a consistent action.
Durability & Maintenance
The Mirrolure Top Dog Jr. is built to last. The hard plastic body and corrosion-resistant hooks can withstand the rigors of saltwater fishing. A quick rinse with freshwater after each use is all that’s needed to keep it in top condition.
Given its robust construction, I expect the Mirrolure Top Dog Jr. to last for many fishing seasons with proper care. The finish will eventually show wear, but the core components should remain functional for a long time.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Mirrolure Top Dog Jr. doesn’t come with any specific accessories. However, the hooks can be easily replaced with higher-quality or different-sized trebles to suit your specific fishing needs.
Many anglers also choose to add split rings or swivels to further enhance the lure’s action and prevent line twist. The Mirrolure Top Dog Jr. is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket hooks and hardware.
Pros and Cons of Mirrolure Top Dog Jr.
Pros
- Effective “walk the dog” action. The lure’s responsiveness to rod tip movements creates a tantalizing presentation that attracts fish.
- Durable construction. The hard plastic body and corrosion-resistant hooks ensure long-lasting performance in saltwater environments.
- Realistic appearance. The 3-D eyes, lifelike gills, and scale patterns make the lure incredibly appealing to fish.
- Enticing rattle. The distinct rattle sound calls in fish from a distance.
- Proven track record. The Mirrolure Top Dog Jr. has been a staple in saltwater anglers’ tackle boxes for years.
Cons
- Requires practice. Mastering the “walk the dog” retrieve takes some time and patience.
- Hook rash. The treble hooks can cause the lure to get scratched.
Who Should Buy Mirrolure Top Dog Jr.?
The Mirrolure Top Dog Jr. is perfect for saltwater anglers targeting redfish, speckled trout, snook, and other inshore species. It’s an excellent choice for both experienced anglers and beginners who are looking to add a reliable and effective topwater lure to their arsenal.
Anglers who prefer lures with minimal action or who primarily fish in deep water may want to skip this product. It’s best suited for shallow water scenarios.
Must-have accessories include a quality pair of pliers for hook removal and a good leader material to prevent break-offs from toothy fish. A loop knot will also maximize the lure’s action.
Conclusion on Mirrolure Top Dog Jr.
The Mirrolure Top Dog Jr. is a top-performing saltwater topwater lure that consistently delivers results. Its realistic appearance, enticing action, and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment for any serious angler. It excels in shallow water conditions.
At a price of $13.12, the Mirrolure Top Dog Jr. offers excellent value for its performance. Its durability ensures that it will last for many fishing trips, making it a cost-effective addition to your tackle box. It’s priced very competitively for a topwater bait.
I would absolutely recommend the Mirrolure Top Dog Jr. to any angler looking for a reliable and effective topwater lure. Don’t hesitate to add this weapon to your arsenal and experience the thrill of topwater strikes! Go get ’em!