First Impressions of Clam Leech Flutter Spoon Kit
The Clam Leech Flutter Spoon Kit promises to be a game-changer for ice anglers looking to entice finicky panfish. Marketed as a comprehensive solution for attracting fish with color and vibration, this kit from Clam combines three popular lure colors in two different weights. As an experienced angler always searching for an edge, I was eager to see if this kit lived up to the hype and could consistently produce on the ice.
For years, I’ve relied on a haphazard collection of individual spoons, often struggling to find the right color or weight to match the day’s conditions. The promise of a curated selection in a single package was particularly appealing. I was looking for a convenient and effective way to cover different scenarios without carrying an overflowing tackle box.
Upon opening the package, the first thing that struck me was the vibrant colors of the spoons. The Perch, Golden Shiner, and Rainbow finishes looked incredibly realistic and attention-grabbing. The build quality seemed decent for the price point, though a closer inspection revealed some minor imperfections in the paint finish. Compared to some of my higher-end, individually purchased spoons, these felt a little less refined but were still perfectly fishable.
Initially, I had considered purchasing individual spoons from Northland Tackle and Custom Jigs & Spins. However, the Clam Leech Flutter Spoon Kit offered a more affordable entry point to experimenting with different colors and weights. I chose this kit specifically for its all-in-one convenience and its reputation for targeting panfish such as crappie and bluegill.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The colors looked fantastic, and the variety of weights seemed practical, but I remained skeptical about the overall durability and effectiveness. The proof, as always, would be in the fishing.
Real-World Testing: Putting Clam Leech Flutter Spoon Kit to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test of the Clam Leech Flutter Spoon Kit took place on a notoriously fickle lake known for its crappie and bluegill population. I chose a day with moderate cloud cover and relatively calm winds. The ice was solid, and I was targeting depths of 8 to 15 feet.
The Clam Leech Flutter Spoon Kit performed admirably in these conditions. I started with the 1/16 oz Perch pattern in shallower water. The spoon’s flutter action was enticing, and I quickly hooked into several decent-sized bluegill. Switching to the 1/8 oz Rainbow pattern in deeper water proved equally effective, yielding a couple of chunky crappie. I appreciated how easily I could switch between colors and weights to adapt to the fish’s preferences. I needed no time to get accustomed to using these; the kit was ready to go.
There were no significant issues during the first outing, although I did notice the paint chipping slightly after a few hours of use. This was a minor concern, but it didn’t seem to deter the fish.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Clam Leech Flutter Spoon Kit has proven to be a reliable addition to my ice fishing arsenal. It consistently outfishes other lures on days when the bite is tough. The durability, while not exceptional, is acceptable for the price.
I have noticed more significant paint chipping on the spoons that I use most frequently. This is particularly evident around the hook attachment points. However, even with the cosmetic wear and tear, the spoons continue to catch fish. Cleaning is simple; I usually just wipe them down with a cloth after each use. These spoons have proven to outperform my previous method of guessing which colors and weights to bring.
Compared to some of my more expensive lures, the Clam Leech Flutter Spoon Kit may not be the most durable option. But the kit is definitely worth the cost, considering its effectiveness and the convenience it offers.
Breaking Down the Features of Clam Leech Flutter Spoon Kit
Specifications
The Clam Leech Flutter Spoon Kit includes three different color patterns: Perch, Golden Shiner, and Rainbow. These patterns are designed to mimic natural forage found in many lakes and ponds. The kit also features two weight options: 1/16 oz and 1/8 oz. This allows anglers to target different depths and current conditions.
The spoons are constructed from a lightweight metal alloy and feature a single, sharp treble hook. The absence of additional features, like rattles or UV coatings, keeps the cost down but might limit effectiveness in certain situations. Each spoon measures approximately 1.5 inches in length.
Performance & Functionality
The Clam Leech Flutter Spoon Kit excels at attracting panfish. The fluttering action is irresistible, even when fish are finicky. The variety of colors and weights ensures anglers can adapt to changing conditions and preferences.
The strengths lie in the kit’s simplicity and effectiveness. The spoons are easy to use, and the color selection is well-chosen. A minor weakness is the durability of the paint finish. Overall, the Clam Leech Flutter Spoon Kit meets and even exceeds expectations for its price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is decent, though not exceptional. The spoons are lightweight and comfortable to use with a variety of ice fishing rods. There is no learning curve; anyone familiar with spoon fishing can immediately use this kit effectively.
The design is simple and functional. The color patterns are visually appealing, and the fluttering action is proven to attract fish.
Durability & Maintenance
While the spoons are effective, the paint finish is prone to chipping. With proper care, the Clam Leech Flutter Spoon Kit should last for at least one or two ice fishing seasons.
Maintenance is minimal. Simply wipe the spoons clean after each use and store them in a dry place.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Clam Leech Flutter Spoon Kit does not come with any additional accessories. There are limited customization options, although some anglers might choose to replace the treble hook with a different size or style.
The spoons are compatible with standard split rings and swivels, allowing anglers to add these components as desired. Some anglers also report success adding small trailer hooks or soft plastics.
Pros and Cons of Clam Leech Flutter Spoon Kit
Pros
- Excellent value for the price. The Clam Leech Flutter Spoon Kit provides a variety of effective lures at an affordable cost.
- Versatile color selection. The Perch, Golden Shiner, and Rainbow patterns cover a wide range of fishing conditions.
- Effective fluttering action. The spoons are designed to entice even finicky panfish.
- Convenient all-in-one kit. No need to purchase individual spoons; this kit has you covered.
- Simple and easy to use. Anyone familiar with spoon fishing can quickly become proficient with this kit.
Cons
- Paint finish is prone to chipping, especially with frequent use.
- Treble hooks are not the highest quality and may require occasional sharpening.
Who Should Buy Clam Leech Flutter Spoon Kit?
The Clam Leech Flutter Spoon Kit is perfect for beginner to intermediate ice anglers targeting panfish such as crappie, bluegill, and perch. It’s also a great option for experienced anglers looking for a convenient and affordable way to expand their lure selection.
This product should be skipped by anglers who prioritize extreme durability and are willing to invest in higher-end, individually crafted lures. Those fishing in extremely demanding conditions or targeting larger species may also find this kit inadequate.
A must-have accessory is a small tackle box or lure case to keep the spoons organized and protected.
Conclusion on Clam Leech Flutter Spoon Kit
The Clam Leech Flutter Spoon Kit offers exceptional value for anglers seeking a versatile and effective panfish lure selection. While the paint finish may not be the most durable, the kit’s performance and convenience more than compensate for this minor drawback. The Clam Leech Flutter Spoon Kit’s price point is justified.
I would definitely recommend this kit to anyone looking to improve their ice fishing success without breaking the bank. For a reasonable investment, you gain access to a curated selection of proven fish-catching colors and weights.
So, grab a Clam Leech Flutter Spoon Kit, hit the ice, and get ready to catch some fish! You won’t regret it.