First Impressions of Cotton Cordell Susp Ripplin Red Fin
The Cotton Cordell Susp Ripplin Red Fin is a name synonymous with classic fishing lures. Cotton Cordell has a long-standing reputation for producing effective and affordable tackle, and the Ripplin Red Fin is a prime example of their no-frills, fish-catching philosophy. The lure’s claim to fame is its unique undulating sides, designed to mimic the subtle movements of a wounded baitfish, even when paused. This suspending action and beefy profile are what set it apart, promising to entice strikes from otherwise lethargic predators.
My quest for the perfect lure often leads me to classics like the Ripplin Red Fin. I’ve been consistently searching for a reliable suspending bait that can trigger strikes in colder water or when fish are pressured, something many modern, expensive lures sometimes fail to do. The suspending action, coupled with the promise of triggering strikes even during pauses, caught my attention.
Out of the box, the Cotton Cordell Susp Ripplin Red Fin felt solid and well-made for its price point. The finish was clean, and the hooks appeared sharp and ready for action. Its profile certainly lived up to its “beefy” description, giving off the impression of a substantial meal for any hungry gamefish.
I considered a few other suspending baits, like the Lucky Craft Pointer 100 and the Yo-Zuri 3DB Minnow, both well-regarded but significantly more expensive. I chose the Cotton Cordell Susp Ripplin Red Fin because of its affordability and the positive reviews highlighting its effectiveness in specific situations where other lures fail. At $6.99, it was a low-risk gamble with potentially high reward.
My first impression was a pleasant surprise. It wasn’t flashy or high-tech, but there was a sense of rugged reliability that piqued my interest. This lure promised a straightforward approach to catching fish, and I was eager to see if it could deliver.
Real-World Testing: Putting Cotton Cordell Susp Ripplin Red Fin to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Cotton Cordell Susp Ripplin Red Fin at a local reservoir known for its bass and walleye population. The water was clear, with a slight chop on the surface, and the air temperature was around 50 degrees Fahrenheit – typical conditions for early spring fishing. I fished it using a medium-action casting rod with 10-pound test monofilament line, opting for a twitch-twitch-pause retrieve as suggested by the product description.
The lure performed as expected, casting relatively well for its size and suspending nicely during the pauses. On my third cast, I felt a distinct thump followed by the unmistakable pull of a fish. After a brief fight, I landed a healthy 2-pound largemouth bass. It was hooked firmly, indicating the lure’s effectiveness in triggering aggressive strikes.
The only initial issue was the factory hooks. While sharp enough to hook the bass, they felt a little on the light side, giving me some concerns about their ability to handle larger fish or tougher conditions.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Cotton Cordell Susp Ripplin Red Fin has proven to be a consistent performer. I’ve caught numerous bass and a few walleye on it, using it primarily in clear to slightly stained water. The paint job has held up surprisingly well, with only minor scratches from occasional encounters with rocks and submerged timber.
The lure has proven durable, but the factory hooks remain a concern. I’ve since upgraded them to stronger, sharper trebles. This change made a noticeable difference in hook-up ratios and my confidence in landing larger fish. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a quick rinse with fresh water after each use.
Compared to my experience with more expensive lures, the Ripplin Red Fin holds its own remarkably well. It may not have the intricate details or advanced features of some high-end baits, but it consistently catches fish at a fraction of the cost. It’s a testament to the fact that sometimes, simplicity and reliability are key.
Breaking Down the Features of Cotton Cordell Susp Ripplin Red Fin
Specifications
The Cotton Cordell Susp Ripplin Red Fin boasts a few key specifications that contribute to its fish-catching ability. It weighs 3/8 oz, making it suitable for casting with medium to medium-heavy tackle. Its suspending action, designed to mimic a wounded baitfish, is a critical feature. It measures 7 inches in height and has a 0.83-inch width.
These specifications matter because they influence the lure’s profile and movement in the water. The weight allows for decent casting distance and accurate presentation. The suspending action is crucial for enticing strikes when fish are inactive. The lure’s dimensions create a realistic baitfish profile that appeals to various gamefish species.
Performance & Functionality
The Cotton Cordell Susp Ripplin Red Fin excels at its primary job: attracting strikes from gamefish. Its unique wobbling action, even during pauses, triggers bites when other lures fail. It works best with a twitch-twitch-pause retrieve, allowing the lure to suspend momentarily and imitate an injured baitfish.
A key strength is its ability to draw strikes in cold water or when fish are pressured. The major weakness is the quality of the factory hooks. They definitely need an upgrade to ensure solid hookups and prevent lost fish. Overall, it meets expectations, providing a reliable and affordable option for anglers targeting bass, walleye, and other predators.
Design & Ergonomics
The Cotton Cordell Susp Ripplin Red Fin features a classic minnow profile with undulating sides to create a lifelike swimming action. The build quality is solid, especially considering its affordable price point. It feels comfortable to handle and cast, with a weight that is neither too heavy nor too light.
The design is simple and user-friendly. It requires no special techniques or adjustments to achieve its intended action. The paint jobs are reasonably durable, though prone to scratching with extended use.
Durability & Maintenance
The Cotton Cordell Susp Ripplin Red Fin is built to last, with a durable plastic body that can withstand repeated casts and encounters with underwater structure. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only a quick rinse after each use and occasional hook sharpening or replacement.
The lure’s simple construction makes it easy to repair if needed. Replacement split rings and hooks are readily available at most tackle shops.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Cotton Cordell Susp Ripplin Red Fin comes ready to fish straight out of the package with pre-attached hooks and split rings. While there are no specific accessories designed solely for this lure, anglers can easily customize it to suit their preferences. Upgrading the hooks is highly recommended to improve hook-up ratios and prevent lost fish.
Popular customization options include swapping out the factory hooks for higher-quality trebles or single hooks, adding split shot to adjust the lure’s suspension rate, and experimenting with different color patterns by using lure paint or markers. The lure is also compatible with a wide range of split rings and snaps from various brands.
Pros and Cons of Cotton Cordell Susp Ripplin Red Fin
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to anglers of all levels.
- Effective suspending action triggers strikes when other lures fail.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Versatile design is suitable for various gamefish species.
- Simple and easy to use, even for beginners.
Cons
- Factory hooks are of subpar quality and should be replaced.
- Paint finish is prone to scratching with extended use.
Who Should Buy Cotton Cordell Susp Ripplin Red Fin?
The Cotton Cordell Susp Ripplin Red Fin is perfect for anglers of all skill levels looking for an affordable and effective suspending lure. It’s particularly well-suited for bass, walleye, and pike anglers fishing in clear to slightly stained water. Anglers who fish in colder water conditions or when fish are pressured will find it to be a valuable addition to their tackle box.
This lure isn’t the best choice for anglers seeking high-end, intricately detailed lures. Anyone unwilling to upgrade the hooks should also avoid this bait.
Must-have accessories include high-quality treble hooks and a pair of split ring pliers for easy hook replacement.
Conclusion on Cotton Cordell Susp Ripplin Red Fin
The Cotton Cordell Susp Ripplin Red Fin is a testament to the fact that you don’t need to spend a fortune to catch fish. Its simple yet effective design, combined with its durable construction and affordable price, makes it a worthwhile addition to any angler’s arsenal. The value proposition is excellent, considering its performance and reliability.
I would personally recommend the Cotton Cordell Susp Ripplin Red Fin to any angler looking for a reliable suspending lure without breaking the bank. Upgrade the hooks, experiment with different retrieves, and get ready to catch some fish! Don’t let the low price fool you – this lure is a genuine fish-catcher. Go get one and see for yourself!