First Impressions of Arbogast Jointed Clicker Jitterbug Click Lure
The Arbogast Jointed Clicker Jitterbug Click Lure is an iconic topwater lure, known for its distinctive waddling action and fish-enticing sound. For decades, anglers have relied on the Jitterbug to call up explosive strikes from bass, pike, and other predatory fish. This particular model, the Jointed Clicker, adds a hinged body and an integrated clicker to the classic design, aiming to amplify its fish-attracting qualities. Is it a gimmick, or a genuine improvement on a proven winner? I was keen to find out.
I’ve been fishing since I was a kid, and topwater fishing, in particular, holds a special place in my heart. Nothing beats the adrenaline rush of seeing a fish erupt from the surface to smash a lure. I was looking for a topwater bait that could perform well in murky water and low-light conditions, where attracting fish through sound and vibration is crucial.
My first impression upon handling the Arbogast Jointed Clicker Jitterbug Click Lure was that it felt solid and well-built. The paint job on the “Frog/Yellow Belly” color pattern was surprisingly detailed for a lure in this price range. Compared to the original Jitterbug, the jointed body and clicker definitely give it a more complex profile and sound. I’ve used the standard Jitterbug and a few jointed crankbaits before, but never a combination of both with a clicker.
Compared to the Bomber Jointed Wake Minnow or the Heddon Zara Spook, the Arbogast Jointed Clicker Jitterbug Click Lure is much simpler in design, focusing on brute attraction rather than finesse. I chose this lure hoping that its aggressive action and loud sound would be effective in the weedy, stained waters of my local lake. I was definitely excited to see if this old-school lure could still hold its own against modern offerings.
Real-World Testing: Putting Arbogast Jointed Clicker Jitterbug Click Lure to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Arbogast Jointed Clicker Jitterbug Click Lure was on a warm, overcast evening at a local lake known for its largemouth bass. I fished it around lily pads and submerged timber, targeting areas where bass were likely to be ambushing prey. The lure performed well, creating a noticeable clicking sound and a wide, erratic wobble.
The conditions were slightly windy, but the Arbogast Jointed Clicker Jitterbug Click Lure casted surprisingly well for its size and design. It was easy to get a good, steady retrieve going, and the clicking sound was quite pronounced, even in the wind. After about an hour of fishing, I finally got a solid strike – a respectable 2-pound bass that inhaled the lure.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Arbogast Jointed Clicker Jitterbug Click Lure has held up remarkably well. The paint has only suffered minor scratches, despite being banged against rocks and timber. The hooks are still sharp and haven’t shown any signs of rust.
The jointed section has remained flexible and the clicker still functions perfectly. I’ve made sure to rinse the lure with fresh water after each use to prevent corrosion. Compared to some other topwater lures I’ve used, the Arbogast Jointed Clicker Jitterbug Click Lure seems surprisingly durable for its price. It definitely outperforms some of the cheaper, no-name lures I’ve tried in the past.
Breaking Down the Features of Arbogast Jointed Clicker Jitterbug Click Lure
Specifications
The Arbogast Jointed Clicker Jitterbug Click Lure boasts a simple yet effective design. It features a jointed body, a metal clicking blade, and two treble hooks. The lure weighs 3/8 oz, making it suitable for casting with medium to medium-heavy gear.
The Manufacturer states the lure is 2 1/2 inches in length and features a “Frog/Yellow Belly” color pattern. The lure is designed for topwater, cast-and-retrieve fishing. These specifications are important because they dictate the lure’s action, casting distance, and the type of fish it’s likely to attract.
Performance & Functionality
The Arbogast Jointed Clicker Jitterbug Click Lure performs its job admirably. The wide wobble and clicking sound are incredibly effective at attracting fish, especially in murky water or low-light conditions. The hooks are sharp and provide solid hooksets.
The lure’s strength lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. However, it’s not a finesse lure, and it may not be the best choice in clear water or when fish are pressured. It definitely meets my expectations for a loud, aggressive topwater bait.
Design & Ergonomics
The Arbogast Jointed Clicker Jitterbug Click Lure is well-built, and the materials seem durable enough for regular use. The lure is easy to cast and retrieve. There’s no real learning curve involved.
The “Frog/Yellow Belly” color pattern is attractive and seems to be effective at imitating natural prey. While the lure isn’t particularly innovative in its design, it’s functional and well-executed.
Durability & Maintenance
The Arbogast Jointed Clicker Jitterbug Click Lure should last for several seasons with proper care. As mentioned earlier, rinsing it with fresh water after each use is crucial to prevent corrosion. Replacing the hooks when they become dull or rusted will also extend its lifespan.
The lure is relatively simple in design, so there aren’t many parts that can break or require repair. It’s a low-maintenance lure that’s designed to withstand the rigors of fishing.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Arbogast Jointed Clicker Jitterbug Click Lure doesn’t come with any accessories. However, anglers can customize it by changing the hooks to different sizes or styles. Some anglers also add feather trailers or blades to further enhance its attraction.
The lure is compatible with most standard treble hooks. It’s easy to personalize the lure to suit specific fishing conditions or target species.
Pros and Cons of Arbogast Jointed Clicker Jitterbug Click Lure
Pros
- Effective at attracting fish with its wide wobble and clicking sound.
- Durable construction for its price point.
- Easy to use, even for beginners.
- Versatile enough to be used in a variety of fishing conditions.
- Affordable, making it a great value for the money.
Cons
- Not ideal for clear water or pressured fish.
- The clicking sound can be too loud for some situations.
Who Should Buy Arbogast Jointed Clicker Jitterbug Click Lure?
The Arbogast Jointed Clicker Jitterbug Click Lure is perfect for anglers who enjoy topwater fishing and are looking for a reliable and affordable lure to attract bass, pike, and other predatory fish. It’s especially well-suited for fishing in murky water, low-light conditions, or weedy areas. This lure is also a great option for beginners who are just starting out with topwater fishing.
Anglers who prefer finesse techniques or who primarily fish in clear water may want to skip this product. Instead, they may opt for a more subtle lure. A must-have modification would be upgrading the stock hooks to a higher-quality, sharper treble hook for improved hooksets.
Conclusion on Arbogast Jointed Clicker Jitterbug Click Lure
Overall, the Arbogast Jointed Clicker Jitterbug Click Lure is a solid performer that delivers on its promise of attracting fish with its aggressive action and loud sound. The price is more than justified. The lure is durable, easy to use, and effective in a variety of fishing conditions.
I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for an affordable and reliable topwater lure. If you’re looking to create some surface commotion and entice some explosive strikes, give the Arbogast Jointed Clicker Jitterbug Click Lure a try. You might just be surprised at how effective this old-school lure can be!