Cotton Cordell Jointed Red Fin, Floating Review

First Impressions of Cotton Cordell Jointed Red Fin, Floating

The Cotton Cordell Jointed Red Fin, Floating is a legendary lure, known for its effectiveness in enticing a variety of gamefish. Cotton Cordell, a trusted name in fishing tackle, offers this lure designed to mimic the movement of wounded baitfish, triggering aggressive strikes. It’s a lure whispered about in tackle shops and discussed around campfires, so I was eager to finally put it to the test.

I’ve been searching for a reliable topwater lure to use in shallow, heavily vegetated areas where other lures often snag. The jointed design and floating buoyancy promised to be a solution. It was time to see if the legend lives up to the hype.

Upon unboxing, the lure felt surprisingly lightweight, yet sturdy, with quality hooks and a decent paint job. The jointed body moved freely, hinting at the enticing action it promised in the water. The two-piece construction felt well-connected and ready to handle some serious strikes.

I considered other jointed lures like the Rebel Jointed Minnow and the Rapala Jointed Shad Rap, but the Red Fin’s reputation for topwater action and the Cotton Cordell name swayed my decision. The price point was also a major factor; it was affordable enough to experiment without breaking the bank. The reviews online were also overwhelmingly positive, citing its effectiveness on bass and other gamefish.

I was definitely excited. The Cotton Cordell Jointed Red Fin, Floating looked like a solid contender to become a staple in my tackle box. I was ready to see if it could deliver on its promise of explosive topwater strikes.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Cotton Cordell Jointed Red Fin, Floating to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Cotton Cordell Jointed Red Fin, Floating at a local lake known for its largemouth bass population. The water was relatively calm, and there was scattered vegetation along the shoreline. I tied it onto my line and began casting near the weed edges.

The lure performed beautifully, creating a subtle “waking” action on the surface with a slow, steady retrieve. After about ten casts, I was rewarded with a massive strike. A large bass exploded from the water, inhaling the Red Fin.

The strike was violent and exhilarating, exactly as advertised. The lure held up well, and the hooks secured the fish firmly. I landed the bass, a respectable 3-pounder, and quickly released it before resuming my fishing.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use in various conditions, the Cotton Cordell Jointed Red Fin, Floating has proven to be a reliable and effective lure. It has caught several more bass, pickerel, and even a surprise bowfin. The lure has seen action in both clear and murky water and has continued to perform well.

There are some minor scratches on the paint, but the overall construction has held up admirably. I’ve been careful to rinse it off after each use and store it properly in my tackle box. This helps maintain the lure’s effectiveness.

Compared to other topwater lures I’ve used, the Cotton Cordell Jointed Red Fin, Floating consistently outperforms them, especially in shallow water. Its unique action and floating design make it a standout lure in my arsenal. It has proven its worth time and time again.

Breaking Down the Features of Cotton Cordell Jointed Red Fin, Floating

Specifications

The Cotton Cordell Jointed Red Fin, Floating boasts a length of 5 inches and weighs 5/8 oz. Its running depth is topwater, meaning it is designed to be fished on the surface. The lure is a floating type and falls under the cast-and-retrieve lure type. It is offered as a single unit.

• The 5-inch length provides a substantial profile that attracts larger fish.
• The 5/8 oz weight allows for decent casting distance without being too heavy for lighter tackle.
• The topwater running depth is ideal for targeting fish in shallow water or near the surface.
• The floating buoyancy allows the lure to rest on the surface, creating a tantalizing presentation.
• The cast-and-retrieve design makes it easy to use, even for beginner anglers.

These specifications combine to make the Cotton Cordell Jointed Red Fin, Floating an excellent lure for a wide range of fishing scenarios. It is easy to cast, creates an enticing action, and effectively targets fish in shallow water. The simplicity and effectiveness make it a must-have for any serious angler.

Performance & Functionality

The Cotton Cordell Jointed Red Fin, Floating excels at attracting strikes and catching fish. Its jointed body creates a lifelike swimming action that mimics a wounded baitfish. The lure’s ability to float allows anglers to pause the retrieve and let it sit on the surface, further enticing hesitant fish.

The lure’s strengths lie in its consistent action, reliable hooks, and ability to attract a variety of species. The main weakness is that the paint job can be susceptible to scratches after prolonged use. With that said, the scratches don’t seem to deter the fish.

The Cotton Cordell Jointed Red Fin, Floating definitely meets and often exceeds expectations for a topwater lure in its price range. It delivers consistent performance and provides anglers with an effective tool for catching fish.

Design & Ergonomics

The Cotton Cordell Jointed Red Fin, Floating features a simple yet effective design. The jointed body creates a realistic swimming action, and the paint job provides a visual appeal to attract fish. The lure feels balanced and comfortable when casting and retrieving.

It is incredibly user-friendly. There is no real learning curve. Simply tie it on, cast it out, and start retrieving. Its ease of use makes it an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced anglers.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Cotton Cordell Jointed Red Fin, Floating can last for many fishing trips. While the paint may scratch over time, the lure’s overall construction is solid and reliable. Cleaning it after each use and storing it properly in a tackle box will prolong its lifespan.

It’s easy to maintain. Simply rinse it with freshwater after each use to remove any dirt or debris. Inspect the hooks periodically and sharpen them as needed to ensure optimal performance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Cotton Cordell Jointed Red Fin, Floating comes as a single unit, so there are no included accessories. However, there are several customization options available. Anglers can replace the hooks with different sizes or styles to suit their specific needs.

Some anglers choose to add weight to the lure to alter its buoyancy or action. You could add a small split shot a few inches ahead of the lure. The Cotton Cordell Jointed Red Fin, Floating is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket hooks and accessories, allowing anglers to customize it to their preferences.

Pros and Cons of Cotton Cordell Jointed Red Fin, Floating

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Who Should Buy Cotton Cordell Jointed Red Fin, Floating?

The Cotton Cordell Jointed Red Fin, Floating is perfect for anglers targeting bass, pickerel, walleye, and other gamefish in shallow water. It’s also a great choice for those who enjoy topwater fishing and the excitement of explosive strikes. Casual anglers looking for an easy-to-use and effective lure will also appreciate its simplicity and versatility.

Those who primarily fish in deep water or prefer lures with more intricate designs may want to skip this product. Anglers who require a lure with a highly durable paint finish may also want to consider other options.

Must-have accessories include a good pair of fishing pliers for removing hooks and a tackle box for storing and protecting the lure. A quality fishing line is also essential for optimal casting and retrieving.

Conclusion on Cotton Cordell Jointed Red Fin, Floating

The Cotton Cordell Jointed Red Fin, Floating is a proven and effective lure that delivers consistent performance at an affordable price. Its lifelike action, floating design, and ease of use make it a valuable addition to any angler’s tackle box. While the paint may scratch over time, the lure’s overall durability and fish-catching ability outweigh this minor drawback.

The price is definitely justified. For around $5, you get a lure that can consistently produce fish. It’s an investment that will pay off in the form of exciting topwater strikes and memorable fishing experiences.

I would absolutely recommend the Cotton Cordell Jointed Red Fin, Floating to anyone looking for a reliable and effective topwater lure. Go ahead and add one to your tackle box, and prepare for some explosive action on the water. You won’t regret it.