First Impressions of Cotton Cordell Little Mickey Jigging Spoon
The Cotton Cordell Little Mickey Jigging Spoon isn’t just another piece of metal in a tackle box; it’s a promise of connection – a direct line to the underwater world where instinct and reaction reign supreme. The Cotton Cordell brand, known for its reliable and effective lures, offers the Little Mickey as a compact solution for enticing finicky fish in various conditions. This review will delve into the nitty-gritty of this humble yet potentially game-changing spoon.
What brought me to the Little Mickey? I was searching for a compact, versatile lure that could cut through heavy current and trigger strikes from walleye and bass even when they weren’t actively feeding. Many of my go-to crankbaits and swimbaits were getting ignored, and I needed something different to jig vertically and provoke a reaction bite.
Upon unboxing the two-pack, my initial thought was, “Simple, yet effective.” The silver finish is clean and reflective, the hook is sharp, and the overall build feels solid for such a small lure. It’s a no-frills design, but sometimes the simplest tools are the most effective.
Compared to larger, flashier jigging spoons I’ve used, the Little Mickey is significantly smaller and lighter. Compared to inline spinners, this is a more of a compact profile that does not create as much noise. I chose the Little Mickey for its compact size, specifically targeting lethargic fish in colder water. My excitement level was cautiously optimistic – it looked like a tool that could work well if presented correctly.
Real-World Testing: Putting Cotton Cordell Little Mickey Jigging Spoon to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground was a local reservoir known for its deep water and strong currents. I targeted walleye specifically, fishing from a boat and using my sonar to identify structure and schools of fish. The Little Mickey performed admirably in the conditions.
The spoon cut through the current like a hot knife through butter, quickly reaching the desired depth. It was relatively easy to control the lure’s action, imparting subtle jigs and twitches to mimic an injured baitfish. After about half an hour, BAM, a solid strike!
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Little Mickey, it has become a staple in my tackle arsenal. The silver finish has held up well, showing only minor scratches from contact with rocks and structure. The hook remains sharp and has not shown any signs of bending or breaking.
Cleaning the Little Mickey is a breeze – a quick rinse with fresh water is usually all it needs. Compared to more complex lures with multiple hooks and moving parts, the Little Mickey is incredibly low-maintenance. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and effectiveness, consistently producing fish when other lures have failed.
Breaking Down the Features of Cotton Cordell Little Mickey Jigging Spoon
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Cotton Cordell crafted this jigging spoon, a name synonymous with quality and fish-catching ability. Their reputation precedes them, assuring anglers of a reliable product.
- Lure Type: Spoon, a classic design known for its enticing flutter and ability to attract fish. Spoons have proven their worth for generations of anglers.
- Color: Silver, a highly reflective finish that mimics the flash of baitfish in the water. The silver color is versatile and effective in various water conditions.
- Length: 1 1/2 inches, a compact size that’s ideal for targeting a variety of gamefish. The smaller profile is less intimidating to wary fish.
- Tackle Weight: 1/4 oz, providing enough weight to cast and jig effectively, even in moderate currents. This weight is perfect for vertical jigging and casting in shallow water.
- Quantity: 2 Pack, providing anglers with a backup lure or the option to experiment with different retrieves. The two-pack offers excellent value for the price.
These specifications are important because they dictate the lure’s action, its ability to reach the desired depth, and its overall appeal to fish. The compact size and weight make it ideal for targeting pressured fish or fishing in areas with heavy cover. The reflective silver finish enhances its visibility, increasing the chances of attracting attention.
Performance & Functionality
The Cotton Cordell Little Mickey Jigging Spoon excels at its primary task: attracting fish and triggering strikes. Its erratic flutter imitates a wounded baitfish, provoking a predatory response from bass, walleye, and other gamefish. The lure’s action is responsive to subtle changes in retrieve, allowing anglers to fine-tune their presentation based on the conditions and the fish’s mood.
Its strength lies in its simplicity; its weakness can be its lack of flash in murky water compared to other jigging options. Overall, the lure has met and exceeded my expectations for a compact jigging spoon.
Design & Ergonomics
The Little Mickey’s design is straightforward and functional. The simple spoon shape is effective at creating an enticing flutter, and the hook is strategically positioned to maximize hook-up ratios. The lure feels solid and well-balanced in hand, inspiring confidence in its ability to withstand the rigors of fishing.
It is incredibly user-friendly, even for beginner anglers. There is no need to understand any complex lure action or intricate mechanics.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its solid construction and durable silver finish, the Little Mickey should last for many fishing trips with proper care. The hook is easily replaceable if damaged or dulled, extending the lure’s lifespan.
A simple rinse with fresh water after each use is sufficient to keep the Little Mickey in top condition. Its minimal design makes maintenance a breeze.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Cotton Cordell Little Mickey Jigging Spoon does not come with any additional accessories. However, anglers can easily customize it by adding a split ring and a small swivel to reduce line twist. Some anglers also add a small feather or plastic trailer to the hook to enhance its appeal.
The Little Mickey is compatible with a variety of hooks, allowing anglers to tailor the hook size and style to their specific needs. You can use treble hooks and even single inline hooks.
Pros and Cons of Cotton Cordell Little Mickey Jigging Spoon
Pros
- Effective Action: The Little Mickey’s fluttering action is irresistible to many gamefish.
- Durable Construction: The lure is built to withstand the rigors of fishing.
- Versatile: Can be used for a variety of species and fishing techniques.
- Affordable: The two-pack offers excellent value for the price.
- Compact Size: Ideal for targeting pressured fish or fishing in areas with heavy cover.
Cons
- Simple Design: May lack the visual appeal of more elaborate lures in murky water.
- Single Hook: Hookup ratio may be slightly lower than lures with multiple hooks.
Who Should Buy Cotton Cordell Little Mickey Jigging Spoon?
The Cotton Cordell Little Mickey Jigging Spoon is perfect for anglers who are looking for a versatile and effective lure to target bass, walleye, and other gamefish. It’s also a great choice for anglers who fish in areas with heavy current or cover, as its compact size and weight allow it to reach the desired depth quickly and easily. This is perfect for weekend anglers and serious anglers.
Anglers who primarily fish in extremely murky water or who prefer lures with more elaborate designs may want to skip this product. Those who require heavy, long-casting lures might want to consider a different spoon.
A must-have accessory is a quality snap swivel to reduce line twist. Consider upgrading the hook to a super-sharp, premium option for improved hookup ratios.
Conclusion on Cotton Cordell Little Mickey Jigging Spoon
The Cotton Cordell Little Mickey Jigging Spoon is a simple yet highly effective lure that has earned a permanent spot in my tackle box. Its durable construction, versatile action, and affordable price make it an excellent value for anglers of all skill levels. The price of $4.49 for a two pack is absolutely justified.
I would highly recommend the Little Mickey to anyone looking for a reliable and productive jigging spoon. If you’re seeking a lure that consistently produces fish, the Cotton Cordell Little Mickey Jigging Spoon is a must-have. Add a pack or two to your tackle box and experience the thrill of hooking up with this unassuming yet powerful lure!