First Impressions of Luhr Jensen 20′ Jet Diver
The Luhr Jensen 20′ Jet Diver is a name synonymous with controlled-depth trolling among seasoned anglers. The Luhr Jensen brand has a long history of producing dependable fishing tackle, and the Jet Diver is a staple in many tackle boxes. It promises a simple, effective way to get your lure down to where the fish are, and its buoyant design is a key selling point.
I was looking for a reliable diving device that could navigate rocky river bottoms without constantly snagging. Many divers I’ve used in the past were essentially lead weights that would lock onto any submerged obstacle. The Luhr Jensen 20′ Jet Diver caught my eye because of its claim to “float off of structure.”
The Luhr Jensen 20′ Jet Diver arrived in a simple blister pack, and its robust plastic construction immediately gave me confidence. The diver felt solid without being overly heavy. Compared to using inline weights or diving planers, the Jet Diver seemed less cumbersome and more streamlined.
I’ve previously used the Deep Six divers and lead core line for trolling, but they can be overkill for shallower rivers and streams. I chose the Luhr Jensen 20′ Jet Diver for its versatility and ability to work in a wider range of depths. My first impression was positive – it seemed like a well-designed, practical tool.
Real-World Testing: Putting Luhr Jensen 20′ Jet Diver to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Luhr Jensen 20′ Jet Diver on a local river known for its rocky bottom and strong currents, targeting steelhead. I paired it with a size 4 Spin-N-Glo and a few beads, hoping to entice some aggressive biters. The water was cold and clear, typical for early spring conditions.
The diver performed as advertised, diving quickly and maintaining a consistent depth even in the swift current. I did need to adjust my trolling speed slightly to achieve the desired depth, but that’s expected with any diving device. The standout feature was its ability to bump over rocks without getting stuck.
Initially, I was impressed with how easily the diver released from the bottom when it encountered an obstacle. This saved me from countless frustrating snags and re-rigging.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Luhr Jensen 20′ Jet Diver has become a permanent fixture in my tackle box. The plastic body has held up well to repeated impacts with rocks and submerged timber. There are a few scratches, but nothing that affects its performance.
Cleaning is simple – a quick rinse with fresh water after each use is all it takes. I haven’t noticed any signs of fading or degradation of the plastic. Compared to other diving devices I’ve used, the Luhr Jensen 20′ Jet Diver requires minimal maintenance.
The Luhr Jensen 20′ Jet Diver has outperformed my expectations in terms of snag resistance and durability. It’s now my go-to choice for trolling in rivers and streams with challenging bottom structure.
Breaking Down the Features of Luhr Jensen 20′ Jet Diver
Specifications
The Luhr Jensen 20′ Jet Diver is specifically designed to dive to approximately 20 feet. Its key features include a buoyant body constructed from durable plastic. The wing design creates pressure, forcing the diver downwards during trolling.
This pressure allows the diver to maintain a consistent depth. The buoyant design allows it to float free when snagged, preventing line breaks and lost tackle. The Luhr Jensen 20′ Jet Diver is effective because it balances diving force with snag resistance.
Performance & Functionality
The Luhr Jensen 20′ Jet Diver excels at achieving and maintaining a consistent trolling depth in rivers and lakes. Its snag-resistant design significantly reduces the frustration of losing tackle. It is also relatively easy to use.
The main strength of this product is its ability to navigate rocky or debris-filled bottoms. It does this while still presenting your lure effectively. A slight weakness is that achieving the exact 20-foot depth requires precise speed control.
The Luhr Jensen 20′ Jet Diver meets and often exceeds expectations, especially in challenging fishing environments.
Design & Ergonomics
The Luhr Jensen 20′ Jet Diver features a simple, functional design. Its plastic construction is lightweight yet durable. The shape is optimized for diving and snag avoidance.
There is virtually no learning curve. It is easy to attach to your line and begin fishing.
Durability & Maintenance
The Luhr Jensen 20′ Jet Diver is designed for long-term use. Its durable plastic body can withstand repeated impacts.
Maintenance is minimal. Rinse the diver with fresh water after use to remove any debris.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Luhr Jensen 20′ Jet Diver does not come with additional accessories, as it’s a standalone diving device. However, it’s designed to be used with a variety of lures, beads, and attractors. Popular pairings include Spin-N-Glos, small spoons, and bait rigs.
The Luhr Jensen 20′ Jet Diver is compatible with most standard fishing line and terminal tackle.
Pros and Cons of Luhr Jensen 20′ Jet Diver
Pros
- Excellent snag resistance: Its buoyant design allows it to float free from obstructions.
- Consistent diving depth: Maintains a stable trolling depth even in strong currents.
- Durable construction: The plastic body is built to withstand repeated impacts.
- Easy to use: Simple to attach and requires minimal setup.
- Versatile application: Effective in both rivers and lakes.
Cons
- Depth is speed-dependent: Achieving the advertised 20-foot depth requires precise speed control.
- Not ideal for extreme depths: Better suited for shallower trolling than downriggers or lead core.
Who Should Buy Luhr Jensen 20′ Jet Diver?
The Luhr Jensen 20′ Jet Diver is perfect for anglers who frequently troll in rivers and streams with rocky bottoms or submerged timber. It is also beneficial to anglers targeting steelhead, salmon, and other species that hold in moderately deep water. This would also apply to walleye anglers.
Anglers who primarily fish in deep, open water might find downriggers or lead core line to be more effective. Those seeking extreme precision in depth control may also prefer other methods.
A good swivel and a selection of your favorite trolling lures are must-have accessories.
Conclusion on Luhr Jensen 20′ Jet Diver
The Luhr Jensen 20′ Jet Diver is a reliable and effective tool for controlled-depth trolling. Its snag-resistant design and durable construction make it a valuable asset for anglers fishing in challenging environments. The price is justified by its performance and longevity.
I would personally recommend the Luhr Jensen 20′ Jet Diver to any angler looking for a simple, effective way to get their lure down to where the fish are. If you’re tired of losing tackle to snags, this diver is a game-changer. Add the Luhr Jensen 20′ Jet Diver to your tackle box and experience the difference it makes on the water!