Let’s Talk About Berkley FFMN11D-SLST Flicker Minnow 11cm 1373185
The Berkley FFMN11D-SLST Flicker Minnow 11cm 1373185 is a pro-designed trolling lure crafted by Berkley to mimic the size, profile, and dive depth of a real minnow. This 4 1/2-inch lure, finished in Slick Sunset, is designed to dive deep and trigger strikes with its impressive flash and tail action, making it a tempting target for predatory fish. Equipped with two sharp Fusion19 hooks, the Flicker Minnow promises to increase your catch rate by getting to the fish quicker.
My search for this particular lure stemmed from a persistent problem I was facing on Lake Huron – walleye that were hugging the bottom in deeper water and ignoring my usual offerings. I needed a lure that could get down quickly, present a realistic profile, and still maintain an enticing action at slower trolling speeds; the Berkley Flicker Minnow seemed to check all those boxes.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the lure’s realistic profile and the vibrant Slick Sunset color pattern. The finish is impressively detailed for a lure in this price range, and the hooks felt incredibly sharp, a testament to the Fusion19 technology. Its weight felt substantial enough to suggest it would indeed dive quickly, but not so heavy as to feel unnatural in the water.
Compared to similar minnow-style crankbaits from Rapala and Yo-Zuri, the Berkley Flicker Minnow stood out for its aggressive dive curve and its price point. While those other lures are undeniably effective, they are often twice or even three times the cost; the Flicker Minnow offered a compelling combination of features and affordability. My excitement was definitely piqued, and I was eager to get it in the water and see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Berkley FFMN11D-SLST Flicker Minnow 11cm 1373185 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Berkley FFMN11D-SLST Flicker Minnow 11cm 1373185 was on that very same walleye trip on Lake Huron I previously mentioned. I deployed it alongside other crankbaits at varying depths to gauge its performance and fish reaction. I tested it by trolling at depths between 15 and 25 feet with varying line lengths and speeds.
The Flicker Minnow performed admirably even in choppy conditions and murky water. It quickly reached the desired depth and maintained a consistent, enticing wobble. It definitely presented a natural profile and flash in the stained water of that lake. The lure handled the conditions surprisingly well.
What immediately impressed me was how easily it ran true right out of the package. I did not need to spend time tuning it. My initial skepticism about a lure at this price point quickly faded when I landed a nice 24-inch walleye within the first hour of fishing.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Berkley Flicker Minnow has proven to be a reliable and durable lure. The finish has held up well despite numerous encounters with rocky bottoms and toothy fish. There is some minor wear on the bill.
Cleaning is straightforward; a quick rinse with fresh water after each trip is all it takes to maintain its appearance and performance. The Fusion19 hooks have remained impressively sharp, requiring minimal sharpening. Compared to other crankbaits I’ve used, the Flicker Minnow has consistently performed at or above expectations, especially considering its price.
Breaking Down the Features of Berkley FFMN11D-SLST Flicker Minnow 11cm 1373185
Specifications
- Bait Length: The Flicker Minnow’s 4 1/2-inch (11cm) length perfectly imitates the size of a juvenile minnow, a prime forage for many predatory fish. Its profile makes it attractive to a wide range of gamefish.
- Color: The Slick Sunset color boasts a blend of oranges, reds, and silvers, providing excellent visibility and flash in various water conditions. This color is especially effective in stained or murky water where attracting attention is key.
- Number of Hooks: Equipped with two super-sharp Fusion19 hooks, the Flicker Minnow maximizes hook-up ratios. The placement of these hooks ensures a secure hold, even on aggressive strikes.
- Quantity: Each package contains one lure. This allows anglers to purchase a variety of colors and sizes without a large upfront investment.
- Packaging: The lure comes in a plastic clam/blister pack, protecting it during shipping and storage. This packaging also allows you to see the lure clearly before purchasing.
Performance & Functionality
The Berkley FFMN11D-SLST Flicker Minnow 11cm 1373185 excels at its intended purpose: trolling for fish at moderate depths. Its ability to dive quickly and maintain a consistent wobble is a significant strength, especially in situations where fish are holding tight to the bottom. The lure’s vibrant color and flash are highly effective at attracting attention.
One potential improvement would be to offer the lure with different diving lip configurations to allow for even greater depth control. However, for its intended depth range, it performs admirably. It consistently exceeds expectations, triggering strikes when other lures fail.
Design & Ergonomics
The Flicker Minnow’s design is thoughtfully executed, balancing a realistic minnow profile with functionality. Its weight is perfectly balanced, contributing to its stable and consistent action in the water. The lure feels solid and well-built, instilling confidence in its durability.
There’s minimal learning curve; simply tie it on and start trolling. The lure is effective right out of the package, making it an excellent choice for both experienced and novice anglers.
Durability & Maintenance
The Flicker Minnow is constructed from durable materials that can withstand the rigors of frequent use. The plastic body is resistant to cracking and chipping, even after repeated encounters with rocks and other underwater obstacles. The Fusion19 hooks are corrosion-resistant and maintain their sharpness well.
Maintaining the Flicker Minnow is incredibly simple. A quick rinse with fresh water after each use is sufficient to remove any dirt or debris. Occasional hook sharpening may be necessary, but overall, the lure requires minimal maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Berkley FFMN11D-SLST Flicker Minnow 11cm 1373185 is primarily designed as a standalone lure and doesn’t inherently require additional accessories. However, anglers can customize its performance by using different snap swivels or leaders. Adding a small barrel swivel a few feet ahead of the lure can help prevent line twist.
It is fully compatible with any standard fishing line and tackle. The Flicker Minnow does not feature any proprietary attachment systems or limitations.
Pros and Cons of Berkley FFMN11D-SLST Flicker Minnow 11cm 1373185
Pros
- Aggressive Dive Curve: Gets down to the fish quickly, maximizing time in the strike zone.
- Realistic Minnow Profile: Accurately imitates the size and shape of a natural prey item.
- Effective in Various Conditions: Works well in both clear and stained water, attracting fish with its flash and action.
- Sharp Fusion19 Hooks: Ensures excellent hook-up ratios and secure holds.
- Excellent Value: Offers outstanding performance at an affordable price point.
Cons
- Limited Depth Range: May require additional weight to reach deeper waters beyond its designed range.
- Potential for Snags: Like any crankbait, it can snag on underwater obstructions.
Who Should Buy Berkley FFMN11D-SLST Flicker Minnow 11cm 1373185?
The Berkley FFMN11D-SLST Flicker Minnow 11cm 1373185 is perfect for anglers targeting walleye, bass, trout, and other predatory fish in lakes and rivers. This is also great for those who prefer trolling as a fishing method. The lure’s effectiveness in various water conditions makes it a versatile addition to any tackle box.
Anglers primarily fishing in extremely deep water (30+ feet) may want to explore other options or use the Flicker Minnow in conjunction with additional weight. Those who prefer ultra-realistic, hand-painted lures might find the Flicker Minnow’s finish to be somewhat less detailed than higher-end options.
A quality snap swivel is a must-have accessory to ensure proper lure action and prevent line twist. Consider investing in a variety of colors and sizes to match different fishing conditions and target species.
Conclusion on Berkley FFMN11D-SLST Flicker Minnow 11cm 1373185
The Berkley FFMN11D-SLST Flicker Minnow 11cm 1373185 is an exceptionally effective and affordable trolling lure that delivers impressive performance. Its realistic profile, aggressive dive curve, and sharp Fusion19 hooks make it a formidable weapon in the hands of any angler. The price is more than justified.
I would absolutely recommend the Berkley Flicker Minnow to anyone looking to improve their trolling game without breaking the bank. It’s a durable, reliable, and highly effective lure that has consistently produced results for me.
Ready to catch more fish? Add the Berkley FFMN11D-SLST Flicker Minnow 11cm 1373185 to your tackle box and experience the difference for yourself!