Let’s Talk About Berkley FFMN11D-CPR Flicker Minnow 11cm 1373172
The Berkley FFMN11D-CPR Flicker Minnow 11cm 1373172 is a meticulously designed lure from Berkley, intended to mimic the profile and action of a natural minnow, a staple food source for many predatory fish. Its sleek 11cm (4 1/2″) body, coupled with a vibrant chartreuse pearl color (CPR), aims to attract fish in varying water conditions and depths. This lure boasts sharp Fusion19 hooks and a specific design aimed at achieving maximum flash and tail action while diving deep.
I was looking for a reliable trolling lure that could consistently reach desired depths without sacrificing action or presentation. Many lures I’ve used either don’t dive deep enough or lack the enticing wobble that triggers strikes from walleye and other predatory fish. The Berkley Flicker Minnow promised both depth and action, which piqued my interest.
Upon unboxing, my initial impression was positive. The lure felt solid and well-constructed, with a vibrant, eye-catching color. The Chartreuse Pearl finish is definitely brighter than some of my other lures, which I hoped would be advantageous in murky water.
Compared to Rapala Deep Tail Dancers and Yo-Zuri Crystal Minnows, the Berkley Flicker Minnow stood out because of its aggressive dive curve and specifically designed body profile for a minnow-like appearance. The other two lures are excellent, but I found the Berkley design more closely matched the baitfish prevalent in the waters I frequent. I picked the Flicker Minnow due to its specific design for deep diving and its reputation for triggering strikes.
I was genuinely excited to test it out, especially given Berkley’s long-standing reputation in the fishing industry. The lure looked like it could be a game-changer for my deep-water trolling efforts.
Real-World Testing: Putting Berkley FFMN11D-CPR Flicker Minnow 11cm 1373172 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Berkley FFMN11D-CPR Flicker Minnow 11cm 1373172 on Lake Erie, targeting walleye in depths ranging from 20 to 30 feet. I trolled it behind my boat at speeds between 1.8 and 2.5 mph, varying the line length to fine-tune the running depth. The lure performed admirably in these conditions.
The lure’s vibrant color was particularly effective in the slightly stained water of Lake Erie. It maintained its action even at slower trolling speeds, and I noticed several aggressive strikes within the first few hours. I did not catch my limit the first time out but boated 4 very nice walleye.
The Flicker Minnow was relatively easy to use straight out of the package, although some fine-tuning of line length and trolling speed was necessary to achieve the optimal depth. There were no significant issues encountered during the first use, but I did notice that the hooks were incredibly sharp, requiring extra caution when handling the lure.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Berkley FFMN11D-CPR Flicker Minnow 11cm 1373172 has proven to be a reliable and productive addition to my tackle box. It has held up well to repeated trolling sessions, showing minimal signs of wear and tear. The hooks remain sharp and the paint finish is still vibrant.
The durability of the lure has been impressive, with only minor scratches and blemishes appearing after encounters with rocks and zebra mussels. I have not had to replace the hooks, but the Fusion19 hooks are exceptionally sharp and strong. The lure is easy to clean; a simple rinse with fresh water is sufficient to remove any algae or debris.
Compared to my previous trolling lures, the Berkley Flicker Minnow has consistently outperformed them in terms of strike frequency and overall catch rate. It dives deeper, maintains its action at various speeds, and has proven to be a magnet for walleye. It absolutely exceeds my expectations and has become my “go-to” lure for deep-water trolling.
Breaking Down the Features of Berkley FFMN11D-CPR Flicker Minnow 11cm 1373172
Specifications
- Bait Length: 4 1/2″ (11cm). This size is ideal for targeting a variety of predatory fish, mimicking a common size of baitfish.
- Color: Chartreuse Pearl. The bright Chartreuse Pearl color is highly visible in stained or murky water conditions.
- Number of Hooks: 2. The two strategically placed hooks increase the chances of a solid hookset.
- Quantity: Per 1. The lure is sold individually, allowing anglers to purchase multiple colors and sizes.
- Packaging: Plastic Clam / Blister. The packaging protects the lure during shipping and storage.
These specifications translate directly into performance benefits. The lure’s size and color make it attractive to predatory fish, while the sharp hooks ensure a secure hookup. The durable construction ensures that the lure can withstand the rigors of trolling.
Performance & Functionality
The Berkley FFMN11D-CPR Flicker Minnow 11cm 1373172 excels at its primary function: attracting and catching fish. Its tight wobble and deep-diving capabilities make it incredibly effective for trolling at various depths. It consistently reaches the desired depth and maintains its action, even at slower speeds.
Its strengths lie in its aggressive dive curve, vibrant color, and sharp hooks. One weakness is that it may require some fine-tuning of line length and trolling speed to achieve the optimal depth for specific conditions. It absolutely meets and even exceeds expectations, proving to be a highly productive trolling lure.
Design & Ergonomics
The lure’s design is optimized for deep-diving and attracting fish. The Chartreuse Pearl finish is highly visible. The build quality is excellent, with a solid and durable construction.
The lure is very user-friendly, requiring minimal setup. However, new users might need to experiment with different line lengths and speeds to find the perfect presentation.
Durability & Maintenance
The Berkley FFMN11D-CPR Flicker Minnow 11cm 1373172 is built to last, with a durable body and sharp hooks that hold their edge. It should withstand many fishing trips. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only a quick rinse after use to remove debris.
Accessories and Customization Options
The lure does not come with any additional accessories beyond what is included in the packaging. Customization options are limited, but anglers can potentially swap out the hooks for different sizes or styles if desired.
It is compatible with standard trolling equipment, such as planer boards and downriggers, allowing anglers to fine-tune their presentation. The Fusion19 hooks that it comes with are high quality, so I would not suggest switching them.
Pros and Cons of Berkley FFMN11D-CPR Flicker Minnow 11cm 1373172
Pros
- Aggressive dive curve: Quickly reaches desired trolling depths, maximizing fishing time.
- Vibrant Chartreuse Pearl color: Extremely effective in stained or murky water conditions.
- Sharp Fusion19 hooks: Ensures solid hooksets and reduces the chance of losing fish.
- Durable construction: Withstands repeated use and encounters with underwater obstacles.
- Realistic minnow profile: Mimics the natural prey of many predatory fish, increasing its appeal.
Cons
- Requires fine-tuning: Optimal depth might require experimentation with line length and speed.
- Limited customization: Few options for personalizing the lure beyond hook replacement.
Who Should Buy Berkley FFMN11D-CPR Flicker Minnow 11cm 1373172?
Perfect for: Walleye anglers, trollers targeting deep-water fish, anglers fishing in stained or murky water, and anyone looking for a reliable and productive trolling lure. It is especially ideal for pro anglers who rely on consistent performance to win.
Who should skip this product? Anglers who primarily fish in clear, shallow water or prefer casting over trolling might not find this lure as useful. It is designed for deep water and trolling.
Must-have accessories or modifications? While not strictly necessary, using a line counter reel and a quality trolling rod can enhance the effectiveness of the lure by allowing for precise depth control and improved fish-fighting ability. Consider high-quality swivels to prevent line twist.
Conclusion on Berkley FFMN11D-CPR Flicker Minnow 11cm 1373172
The Berkley FFMN11D-CPR Flicker Minnow 11cm 1373172 is an excellent trolling lure that delivers on its promises of deep-diving action and reliable performance. Its aggressive dive curve, vibrant color, and sharp hooks make it a highly effective tool for targeting walleye and other predatory fish.
The price is absolutely justified by its performance and durability. At $6.99, this lure offers exceptional value for the money compared to other similar lures on the market.
I would wholeheartedly recommend it to any angler looking to improve their trolling success, especially in deep or stained water. It’s a well-designed, well-built lure that consistently produces results. Don’t hesitate to add the Berkley Flicker Minnow to your tackle box – you won’t be disappointed! Go out there and catch some fish!