First Impressions of Leland Trout Magnet 9pc. Pack, 7 Bodies and 2-1/64 oz Size 8 Jigheads
The Leland Trout Magnet 9pc. Pack, 7 Bodies and 2-1/64 oz Size 8 Jigheads isn’t going to break the bank, but can it break through to picky trout? As an avid angler, I’m always on the lookout for affordable yet effective lures, and the Trout Magnet has a legendary reputation. This tiny pack promises to deliver big results, and for a price that’s hard to argue with, it’s got my attention.
My trout fishing had become stale; the fish seemed to have wised up to my usual arsenal of spinners and spoons. I needed something different, something subtle, and something that could entice even the most finicky trout. The positive buzz around the Leland Trout Magnet lured me in.
Upon receiving the pack, the first thing I noticed was its diminutive size. The seven soft plastic bodies are incredibly small, and the two jigheads are practically microscopic. Despite their size, they appeared well-made. Compared to larger, more elaborate lures, this was minimalist simplicity at its finest.
I considered other options like the Berkley PowerBait Trout Worms and the Mepps Aglia spinner, but the Trout Magnet’s finesse presentation and dedicated trout-catching reputation swayed me. The PowerBait felt too bulky for clear water, and the spinners, while effective, weren’t always subtle enough. I was cautiously optimistic; the size concerned me, but the reputation gave me hope.
Real-World Testing: Putting Leland Trout Magnet 9pc. Pack, 7 Bodies and 2-1/64 oz Size 8 Jigheads to the Test
First Use Experience
I field-tested the Leland Trout Magnet 9pc. Pack, 7 Bodies and 2-1/64 oz Size 8 Jigheads on a small, clear mountain stream known for its notoriously selective brown trout. The water was low and gin-clear, conditions that demand a subtle presentation. I paired the Trout Magnet with an ultralight spinning rod and 4-pound test fluorocarbon line.
The lure was surprisingly easy to cast, despite its light weight. The key was using a slow, smooth casting motion to avoid overpowering it. I fished the lure with a slow, erratic retrieve, letting it drift naturally in the current. On my third cast, a beautiful 14-inch brown trout hammered the Trout Magnet. Even better, after a quick release the tiny lure looked just as good as it did before!
There were no immediate issues. The jighead seemed to hold the soft plastic body securely, and the hook was sharp enough to provide solid hooksets. The lure performed admirably, even in the challenging conditions.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Leland Trout Magnet 9pc. Pack, 7 Bodies and 2-1/64 oz Size 8 Jigheads, I can confidently say that it’s a reliable and effective trout lure. While the soft plastic bodies will eventually tear or get lost, the jigheads are surprisingly durable. I’ve caught numerous trout on the same jighead without any signs of bending or breaking.
The soft plastic bodies do show wear and tear after multiple uses, especially if the trout are aggressive. However, given the price point, this is perfectly acceptable. A little dab of super glue can extend their lifespan. Cleaning is a breeze; simply rinse them off with water and let them dry.
Compared to my previous experiences with other soft plastic trout lures, the Trout Magnet holds up remarkably well. Some of the more expensive brands tear easily and require frequent replacement. The Leland Trout Magnet offers a great balance of durability and affordability.
Breaking Down the Features of Leland Trout Magnet 9pc. Pack, 7 Bodies and 2-1/64 oz Size 8 Jigheads
Specifications
- Lure Type: Soft Bait. This indicates a more natural presentation and feel for the trout, often leading to longer holds and better hooksets.
- Quantity: 9. The pack includes 7 soft plastic bodies and 2 jigheads, offering a good starting point for testing and experimenting.
- Length: 4.25 in. This measurement likely refers to the package length. The actual lure body length is significantly smaller, closer to 1 inch.
- Jighead Weight: 1/64 oz. This ultra-light weight allows for a slow, natural drift, perfect for clear water and picky trout.
- Hook Size: Size 8. A small hook size is essential for small trout lures to ensure proper hook penetration and reduce the risk of spooking fish.
Performance & Functionality
The Leland Trout Magnet 9pc. Pack, 7 Bodies and 2-1/64 oz Size 8 Jigheads excels at enticing trout in clear, low-water conditions where a subtle presentation is crucial. The light weight and small profile allow the lure to drift naturally, mimicking the movement of small insects or nymphs. The erratic, darting action on the retrieve is irresistible to trout.
Its primary strength lies in its ability to catch trout when other lures fail. A weakness is its vulnerability to snags in heavy cover or fast-moving water. It meets expectations for catching trout in specific conditions and exceeds them in finesse situations.
Design & Ergonomics
The simple design of the Leland Trout Magnet is both effective and user-friendly. The soft plastic body is easy to thread onto the jighead, and the small size is ideal for targeting smaller trout. The lightweight construction makes it easy to cast, even with an ultralight rod.
There’s practically no learning curve. It’s as simple as tying it on and casting.
Durability & Maintenance
The soft plastic bodies will eventually wear out with use, but the jigheads are surprisingly durable and can withstand multiple hooksets. A pack of extra bodies should be considered.
Maintenance is minimal; simply rinse the lures with water after each use. Store them in a dry place to prevent them from sticking together.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Leland Trout Magnet is primarily a standalone lure and doesn’t offer extensive customization options. You can experiment with different colors of soft plastic bodies, but the jighead is a fixed component.
It’s compatible with standard ultralight fishing tackle, such as spinning rods, reels, and fluorocarbon line. You may want to purchase more jigheads since there are only two included in the pack.
Pros and Cons of Leland Trout Magnet 9pc. Pack, 7 Bodies and 2-1/64 oz Size 8 Jigheads
Pros
- Catches trout when other lures fail. Its subtle presentation and erratic action are highly effective in clear water.
- Extremely affordable. The price point makes it an excellent value for anglers on a budget.
- Easy to use. Simple design and lightweight construction make it beginner-friendly.
- Durable jigheads. The jigheads can withstand multiple hooksets without bending or breaking.
- Versatile for different trout species. It can be used to target brown trout, rainbow trout, and brook trout.
Cons
- Soft plastic bodies wear out quickly. The soft plastic bodies are prone to tearing after multiple uses.
- Limited customization options. The jighead is a fixed component, and there are no alternative hook sizes or weights available in the pack.
Who Should Buy Leland Trout Magnet 9pc. Pack, 7 Bodies and 2-1/64 oz Size 8 Jigheads?
The Leland Trout Magnet 9pc. Pack, 7 Bodies and 2-1/64 oz Size 8 Jigheads is perfect for anglers targeting trout in clear, low-water conditions, especially those who prioritize finesse tactics. It’s also a great choice for beginners due to its ease of use and affordability. It’s a must-have for any pro angler.
Anglers who prefer larger, more aggressive lures or those who fish in heavy cover or fast-moving water should skip this product. Those looking for extensive customization options may also be disappointed.
Must-have accessories include extra soft plastic bodies and a selection of ultralight fishing tackle, such as a spinning rod, reel, and fluorocarbon line.
Conclusion on Leland Trout Magnet 9pc. Pack, 7 Bodies and 2-1/64 oz Size 8 Jigheads
The Leland Trout Magnet 9pc. Pack, 7 Bodies and 2-1/64 oz Size 8 Jigheads is an incredibly effective trout lure that delivers exceptional value for the price. While the soft plastic bodies may wear out quickly, the lure’s ability to entice trout in challenging conditions makes it a worthwhile addition to any angler’s tackle box.
The low price of $2.39 is more than justified given its proven effectiveness. It’s a confidence lure at a bargain.
I would highly recommend the Leland Trout Magnet to any angler looking for an affordable and effective trout lure. Don’t let the small size fool you; this tiny pack can deliver big results. Grab a pack and prepare to be amazed by its trout-catching prowess.