First Impressions of Custom Jigs Demon Jigging Spoons
The Custom Jigs Demon Jigging Spoons promise a lot in a small package. Custom Jigs, a well-regarded name in the ice fishing and panfishing world, positions these spoons as versatile lures capable of enticing everything from finicky bluegill to aggressive walleye. The allure of hot new colors and ultra-sharp Mustad Red hooks definitely piqued my interest, promising an edge on the water.
I’ve been searching for a more effective lure to target panfish in heavily pressured local lakes. The reports of the Demon’s effectiveness across different species, and the promise of vibrant colors to attract fish in murky water, sold me.
The first thing I noticed upon receiving the Custom Jigs Demon Jigging Spoons was their compact size and vibrant finish. The paint job was clean and even, with a noticeable shimmer designed to catch the light. They feel lightweight, as expected for panfish lures, but the hooks looked surprisingly robust for their size.
I considered other jigging spoons, like the Acme Kastmaster and the Swedish Pimple. The Kastmaster is a classic, but its simple design lacked the color variety I was looking for. The Swedish Pimple is known for aggressive action, but I wanted something more subtle for wary panfish. The Custom Jigs Demon Jigging Spoons seemed to strike a balance between attraction and finesse.
I was cautiously optimistic. The build quality seemed good, but the real test would be on the water. I hoped the Custom Jigs Demon Jigging Spoons would live up to their reputation and help me put some fish in the boat.
Real-World Testing: Putting Custom Jigs Demon Jigging Spoons to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Custom Jigs Demon Jigging Spoons was on a local lake known for its crappie population. I started in about 10 feet of water near a submerged brush pile, a known crappie hangout. The water was slightly stained, but visibility was decent.
The size 4 (1/10 oz) spoon in a chartreuse color produced immediate results. Within minutes, I had a feisty crappie on the line. The Mustad Red hook performed flawlessly, providing a solid hookset.
The jigging action was easy to control, even in a slight breeze. I experimented with different retrieves – short, erratic jigs and slow, deliberate lifts – and both seemed to trigger strikes. The Custom Jigs Demon Jigging Spoons proved versatile right out of the package.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Custom Jigs Demon Jigging Spoons in various conditions, I’m impressed with their overall performance. They have proven effective for crappie, bluegill, and even a few surprise bass. The paint holds up reasonably well to repeated use and contact with structure.
I’ve noticed some minor chipping on the edges after prolonged use around rocks and timber. However, this hasn’t seemed to affect their fish-attracting ability. A quick touch-up with clear nail polish could easily extend their lifespan.
Cleaning is simple – a quick rinse with fresh water after each use keeps them in good condition. The Mustad Red hooks have remained sharp and rust-free with minimal care. Compared to other jigging spoons I’ve used, the Custom Jigs Demon Jigging Spoons offer a better balance of durability, fish-catching ability, and ease of maintenance.
Breaking Down the Features of Custom Jigs Demon Jigging Spoons
Specifications
The Custom Jigs Demon Jigging Spoons are available in three sizes: size 6 (1/20 oz), size 4 (1/10 oz), and size 2 (1/8 oz). All spoons are painted on both sides with vibrant, eye-catching colors. They are armed with ultra-sharp Mustad Red hooks for improved hooksets.
The specified Length is listed as 5 in, however, this is likely the package length, not the lure length. The actual length of the spoons themselves ranges from approximately 0.75 inches (size 6) to 1.25 inches (size 2). The weight specification of 0.02 oz is inaccurate and refers to the weight of a single item in the packaging, not the lure weight itself.
These specifications are crucial for matching the lure to the target species and water conditions. The smaller sizes are ideal for panfish in clear water or when they’re finicky, while the larger sizes can attract bigger fish in deeper or murkier water. The Mustad Red hooks provide a visual attractant and enhance hook penetration.
Performance & Functionality
The Custom Jigs Demon Jigging Spoons excel at triggering strikes from a variety of panfish and gamefish. Their erratic, darting action mimics injured baitfish, enticing fish to strike. The vibrant colors and reflective finish further enhance their appeal, especially in low-light conditions or stained water.
The primary strength of these spoons is their versatility. They can be fished vertically, cast and retrieved, or trolled, making them suitable for a wide range of fishing techniques. A minor weakness is that the paint can chip with heavy use around abrasive structure. Overall, the Custom Jigs Demon Jigging Spoons consistently meet and often exceed expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Custom Jigs Demon Jigging Spoons are designed for both aesthetics and functionality. The paint jobs are eye-catching and durable, and the spoon shape creates an enticing wobble and flash. The compact size and lightweight design make them easy to fish with light tackle.
There’s virtually no learning curve involved in using these spoons. Simply tie one on and start jigging. The balance is excellent, providing a natural and realistic presentation.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Custom Jigs Demon Jigging Spoons should last for several seasons. As mentioned previously, the paint may chip over time, but this can be minimized by avoiding contact with rocks and other abrasive materials. Simple cleaning and storage are key to longevity.
Maintaining these spoons is straightforward. Rinsing them with fresh water after each use and storing them in a dry tackle box is all that’s needed. Replacing the hooks if they become dull or damaged will ensure optimal performance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Custom Jigs Demon Jigging Spoons don’t come with any additional accessories. However, they can be easily customized. Swapping out the included hook for a different size or style is a common modification.
Adding a small split ring to the hook eye can improve the action and reduce line twist. Some anglers also like to add a small grub or plastic trailer to the hook for added attraction. The Custom Jigs Demon Jigging Spoons are compatible with most standard panfish hooks and accessories.
Pros and Cons of Custom Jigs Demon Jigging Spoons
Pros
- Vibrant colors attract fish in various water conditions. The diverse color palette provides options for different species and water clarity.
- Ultra-sharp Mustad Red hooks ensure excellent hooksets. This reduces the chance of losing fish once they strike.
- Versatile jigging action can be adapted to different fishing techniques. These spoons are equally effective vertically jigged or cast and retrieved.
- Durable construction holds up well to repeated use. While the paint can chip, the overall build quality is solid.
- Effective for multiple species, including crappie, bluegill, bass, and walleye. This makes them a great all-around lure to have in your tackle box.
Cons
- The paint can chip with heavy use around rocks and timber. While not a deal-breaker, it’s something to be aware of.
- The lure weight specifications listed are inaccurate. This could lead to confusion when selecting the appropriate size for specific applications.
Who Should Buy Custom Jigs Demon Jigging Spoons?
The Custom Jigs Demon Jigging Spoons are perfect for panfish anglers of all skill levels. They are also a great choice for ice fishermen targeting crappie, bluegill, and perch. Anyone looking for a versatile and effective jigging spoon at an affordable price will appreciate these lures.
Beginners might find them particularly appealing due to their ease of use. Anglers targeting larger species, such as walleye or trout, might want to consider the larger sizes. Those primarily fishing in snag-filled areas may want to consider using a slightly heavier spoon to help prevent line breaks.
A must-have accessory is a quality fluorocarbon leader to improve stealth and reduce line visibility. A small selection of different colored grubs or plastic trailers can also enhance the spoon’s attraction.
Conclusion on Custom Jigs Demon Jigging Spoons
The Custom Jigs Demon Jigging Spoons are a fantastic addition to any angler’s tackle box. Their versatility, vibrant colors, and sharp hooks make them highly effective for a wide range of species and fishing conditions. While the paint may chip with heavy use, their overall performance and durability are impressive for the price.
The value proposition is excellent. At just $4.99, these spoons offer exceptional fish-catching ability without breaking the bank. I would wholeheartedly recommend the Custom Jigs Demon Jigging Spoons to anyone looking to improve their panfishing game.
Grab a few Custom Jigs Demon Jigging Spoons, hit the water, and get ready to reel in some fish! They are a must-have for any serious panfish angler!