Let’s Talk About Berkley FFSH7M-SLMS FLCKR SHAD 7CM SLICK MOUSE 1316805
The Berkley FFSH7M-SLMS FLCKR SHAD 7CM SLICK MOUSE 1316805 is more than just another crankbait; it’s a meticulously designed lure from Berkley, aimed at mimicking the vulnerable profile of a fleeing baitfish. Designed in collaboration with professional anglers, the Flicker Shad series promises a unique “flicker” action and optimized size to match the hatch in various fishing scenarios. It’s designed to entice strikes from predator fish in both freshwater and inshore saltwater environments, promising to be a versatile tool in any angler’s arsenal.
I was seeking a crankbait that could reliably reach that 10-15 foot depth range without requiring excessive line out or specialized trolling gear. I’ve struggled with lures that either run too shallow or require so much line to reach depth that hooksets become difficult. The promise of the Flicker Shad’s specific dive depth, coupled with the appealing Slick Mouse color, sparked my interest.
Upon unboxing, the lure felt solid and well-constructed for its price point. The Slick Mouse color is a subtle, naturalistic grey, which I appreciate compared to some of the gaudier offerings on the market. The inclusion of two Fusion19 hooks gives confidence that the lure is ready to fish, without needing an immediate upgrade.
I considered the Rapala Shad Rap and the Strike King KVD Deep Diver before settling on the Berkley Flicker Shad. While the Shad Rap is a classic, its price point is significantly higher. The Strike King offers a similar price but I was drawn to the Flicker Shad’s reputation for consistent action right out of the package and the backing of the Berkley brand.
My initial excitement stemmed from the lure’s potential to fill a specific gap in my tackle box – a reliable, mid-depth crankbait with a subtle presentation. It looked like something the fish haven’t seen a million times. If it performed as advertised, the Berkley FFSH7M-SLMS FLCKR SHAD 7CM SLICK MOUSE 1316805 could become a go-to for targeting walleye, bass, and other predators in that crucial depth range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Berkley FFSH7M-SLMS FLCKR SHAD 7CM SLICK MOUSE 1316805 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first put the Berkley Flicker Shad to the test on a local reservoir known for its walleye and smallmouth bass. I targeted areas with submerged timber and rocky drop-offs, classic crankbait territory. I used a medium-action casting rod with 10-pound test fluorocarbon line.
The lure performed admirably, quickly diving to its advertised depth range with a steady retrieve. The action was consistent, exhibiting that subtle “flicker” that the Berkley marketing highlights. Despite a blustery day with moderate chop, the lure tracked true and didn’t blow out or wander excessively.
Casting distance was also impressive, thanks in part to the lure’s internal weight transfer system. No special tricks were needed to achieve reasonable distance with it. After about an hour of fishing, I landed a respectable 17-inch walleye, which nailed the lure aggressively.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Berkley Flicker Shad has proven to be a reliable addition to my crankbait lineup. I’ve fished it in various conditions, from clear, sunny days to overcast skies and light rain. It’s maintained its action and color well, even after bouncing off rocks and timber.
Durability is surprisingly good for a lure in this price range. The finish shows some minor scratches, but the body is holding up well, and the hooks remain sharp. I’ve only needed to touch them up lightly with a hook sharpener a couple of times.
Cleaning is simple; a quick rinse with fresh water after each trip is usually sufficient. I occasionally apply a thin coat of lubricant to the hooks to prevent rust. Compared to some of the more expensive crankbaits I own, the Flicker Shad offers comparable performance and durability at a fraction of the cost.
Breaking Down the Features of Berkley FFSH7M-SLMS FLCKR SHAD 7CM SLICK MOUSE 1316805
Specifications
The Berkley FFSH7M-SLMS FLCKR SHAD 7CM SLICK MOUSE 1316805 boasts a bait length of 2 3/4 inches (7cm), making it a good all-around size for many predatory game fish. It’s designed to reach a swimming depth of 11-13 feet, hitting that sweet spot for many species. It is equipped with two sharp Fusion19 hooks, which are known for their sticky sharpness and solid hooksets.
The lure weighs 5/16 oz, offering a good balance for casting distance and stable action. The Slick Mouse color provides a natural, subtle presentation. It comes in plastic clam/blister packaging, a standard presentation for individual crankbaits. These specifications combine to create a lure that’s designed for ease of use and effective performance in its intended depth range.
Performance & Functionality
The Berkley FFSH7M-SLMS FLCKR SHAD 7CM SLICK MOUSE 1316805 excels in its primary function: attracting strikes from fish in the 11-13 foot depth range. The tight, wobbling action, combined with the subtle color, proves irresistible to walleye, bass, and even the occasional trout. The Fusion19 hooks provide excellent hookup ratios.
The lure’s strengths lie in its consistent action, reliable depth control, and sharp hooks. A minor weakness is its tendency to snag in heavy cover, which is typical of any crankbait in this depth range. Overall, it meets and even exceeds expectations for a lure in its price bracket.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is commendable, utilizing durable plastics and quality hardware. The weight is well-distributed, contributing to stable action and easy casting. The Slick Mouse color is realistic and understated.
The design is user-friendly with no learning curve required. Simply tie it on and start casting. The lure’s compact size and balanced weight make it comfortable to fish for extended periods.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Berkley Flicker Shad should last for multiple seasons. The body is relatively resistant to cracking and chipping, while the hooks can be easily sharpened or replaced if needed. Maintenance involves a simple rinse after use and occasional hook sharpening.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Berkley FFSH7M-SLMS FLCKR SHAD 7CM SLICK MOUSE 1316805 comes ready to fish right out of the package, with no immediate need for accessories. While not specifically designed for extensive customization, the hooks can be swapped out for different sizes or brands depending on angler preference. Its standard design allows it to be used with most crankbait snaps and swivels.
Pros and Cons of Berkley FFSH7M-SLMS FLCKR SHAD 7CM SLICK MOUSE 1316805
Pros
- Excellent Value for Money: Offers great performance and durability at an affordable price.
- Effective Action: The tight wobble and subtle “flicker” are highly effective at attracting fish.
- Sharp Fusion19 Hooks: Provides solid hooksets and reduces missed opportunities.
- Reliable Depth Control: Consistently reaches and maintains its target depth range.
- Versatile Color: The Slick Mouse color is effective in a variety of water conditions.
Cons
- Can snag easily in heavy cover, requiring careful retrieval techniques.
- Paint finish is susceptible to scratching with repeated use around rocks and structure.
Who Should Buy Berkley FFSH7M-SLMS FLCKR SHAD 7CM SLICK MOUSE 1316805?
The Berkley FFSH7M-SLMS FLCKR SHAD 7CM SLICK MOUSE 1316805 is perfect for anglers targeting walleye, bass, and other predatory fish in the 11-13 foot depth range. It’s a great choice for both beginners and experienced anglers looking for a reliable and affordable crankbait. Pro anglers and casual anglers will find it very useful.
This lure might not be the best choice for anglers who primarily fish in extremely heavy cover, where its snagging potential could become a major issue. It may also be less ideal for those targeting extremely deep water, where specialized deep-diving crankbaits would be more effective.
Must-have accessories would include a good pair of line clippers, a hook sharpener, and perhaps a crankbait retrieval tool for those inevitable snags. Upgrading to slightly stronger split rings could also be a worthwhile modification for targeting larger, more powerful fish.
Conclusion on Berkley FFSH7M-SLMS FLCKR SHAD 7CM SLICK MOUSE 1316805
The Berkley FFSH7M-SLMS FLCKR SHAD 7CM SLICK MOUSE 1316805 is an exceptional crankbait that delivers impressive performance and durability at an unbeatable price. Its consistent action, reliable depth control, and sharp hooks make it a valuable addition to any angler’s tackle box.
The price is more than justified by its performance and longevity. It’s a lure that will pay for itself many times over in the fish it brings to the boat. I would wholeheartedly recommend the Berkley Flicker Shad to anyone looking for a dependable, mid-depth crankbait that consistently catches fish.
If you’re seeking a versatile and affordable crankbait that can consistently produce results, don’t hesitate to add the Berkley FFSH7M-SLMS FLCKR SHAD 7CM SLICK MOUSE 1316805 to your arsenal. Go out there and give it a cast; you won’t be disappointed.