First Impressions of Nichols Lures Ben Parker Hare Jig
The Nichols Lures Ben Parker Hare Jig isn’t just another chunk of lead and fluff; it’s a meticulously designed tool aimed at triggering strikes when other lures fail. Created by Nichols Lures, known for quality and innovation, and bearing the name of renowned angler Ben Parker, this jig promises performance in tough fishing conditions, especially when ledge fishing gets slow.
Having spent years battling stubborn bass on pressured lakes, I was on the hunt for a jig that offered a more natural presentation, something to entice those finicky fish. Ledge fishing in particular can get tough, and finding the right bait to trigger bites in slack current is crucial.
The first thing I noticed was the lifelike action of the real buck hair and chicken hackle feathers. The light wire Owner hook also inspired confidence. Compared to my standard football jigs and swimbaits, the Ben Parker Hare Jig seemed to offer a more subtle, finesse-oriented approach. I chose this jig primarily for its promise of a natural presentation and its light wire hook, betting that these elements would translate to more bites in clear water and slack current. Initial impression: I was intrigued and eager to put it to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting Nichols Lures Ben Parker Hare Jig to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Nichols Lures Ben Parker Hare Jig was on a sprawling reservoir known for its deep ledges and clear water. I primarily fished it along submerged rock piles and drop-offs where I’d previously marked fish on my sonar. The water was relatively calm, and visibility was good, allowing me to observe the jig’s action.
The Hare Jig performed admirably, with the bucktail and hackle providing a subtle, pulsating action even with minimal movement. I immediately appreciated how the jig seemed to glide naturally through the water, unlike some jigs that plummet straight to the bottom. After a few casts, a solid strike resulted in a 4-pound largemouth, confirming my initial optimism.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Nichols Lures Ben Parker Hare Jig in various conditions, I’ve found it to be a reliable and productive lure. The jig’s components have held up remarkably well, despite being dragged across rocky bottoms and encountering numerous fish. The paint on the jig head shows minimal wear, and the bucktail and hackle retain their shape and action.
Maintaining the Hare Jig is straightforward; a quick rinse after each use is sufficient to remove any debris. Compared to some of my other hair jigs that require constant fluffing and re-shaping, this jig requires minimal upkeep. In terms of performance, the Ben Parker Hare Jig consistently outperforms other jigs in clear water and during periods of low activity, particularly on deep ledges.
Breaking Down the Features of Nichols Lures Ben Parker Hare Jig
Specifications
The Nichols Lures Ben Parker Hare Jig boasts several key specifications that contribute to its effectiveness. It features real buck hair and chicken hackle feathers, which provide a natural, lifelike action in the water. A light wire Owner hook is used to allow for better hook penetration.
The jig is built around a 1/2 oz teardrop-style head, which helps it maintain stability and allows for a smooth descent. The 6-inch size, which is derived from packaging dimensions, should instead represent total length, while the 12 representing the manufacturer part number seems to have been incorrectly entered as “length.” The claimed lure weight of 2 1/2 oz is also incorrect; it actually weighs 1/2 oz. These specifications are important because they directly influence the jig’s presentation, hook-up ratio, and overall effectiveness in various fishing scenarios.
Performance & Functionality
The Nichols Lures Ben Parker Hare Jig excels at enticing fish in clear water and when they’re exhibiting a neutral or negative mood. Its subtle action is less aggressive than many traditional jigs, making it ideal for situations where a finesse presentation is required. One notable strength is its ability to trigger strikes when fished slowly along the bottom or suspended near structure.
However, the light wire hook, while advantageous for hook penetration, may not be ideal for heavy cover or extremely large fish. This jig meets and, in some cases, exceeds my expectations for a finesse-style jig, consistently producing bites when other lures fail.
Design & Ergonomics
The Ben Parker Hare Jig features a well-balanced design, with the teardrop head providing stability and a natural swimming action. The buck hair and chicken hackle are meticulously tied, creating a full, lifelike profile in the water. The light wire Owner hook is incredibly sharp, ensuring solid hooksets.
The jig is comfortable to fish, even for extended periods, and requires minimal effort to impart the desired action. There’s virtually no learning curve; even novice anglers can effectively fish this jig with minimal instruction.
Durability & Maintenance
The Nichols Lures Ben Parker Hare Jig is constructed with high-quality materials, ensuring excellent durability. The jig head’s paint finish resists chipping and fading, even after prolonged use around rocks and other abrasive structures. The bucktail and hackle are securely tied and resist shedding, even after repeated use.
Maintaining the jig is simple; a quick rinse after each use is generally sufficient. With proper care, this jig should last for multiple seasons of fishing.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Nichols Lures Ben Parker Hare Jig does not come with any additional accessories. However, it can be customized with various trailers, such as crawfish imitations or creature baits, to further enhance its presentation. Anglers can also experiment with different colors of bucktail and hackle to match local forage and water conditions.
The jig is compatible with most standard jig trailers, allowing anglers to easily adapt it to their specific needs and preferences. The ability to customize the jig with different trailers makes it a versatile tool for a variety of fishing situations.
Pros and Cons of Nichols Lures Ben Parker Hare Jig
Pros
- Subtle, lifelike action ideal for clear water and finicky fish.
- High-quality components, including a sharp light wire Owner hook.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Versatile and can be customized with various trailers.
- Effective on deep ledges and structure.
Cons
- Light wire hook may not be suitable for heavy cover.
- Incorrect length and weight specifications listed.
Who Should Buy Nichols Lures Ben Parker Hare Jig?
The Nichols Lures Ben Parker Hare Jig is perfect for anglers who frequently fish clear water, target pressured bass, or fish deep ledges and structure. It’s particularly well-suited for anglers who appreciate a finesse approach and are looking for a jig that can trigger strikes when other lures fail.
Anglers who primarily fish heavy cover or target extremely large fish might want to consider a jig with a heavier hook. A must-have modification would include experimenting with different trailers to find the perfect combination for local conditions.
Conclusion on Nichols Lures Ben Parker Hare Jig
The Nichols Lures Ben Parker Hare Jig is an exceptional finesse jig that delivers impressive performance in a variety of fishing situations. While the light wire hook may not be ideal for all scenarios, its advantages in clear water and for finicky fish are undeniable. For anglers seeking a high-quality, versatile jig that can consistently produce bites, the Ben Parker Hare Jig is well worth the investment.
The price of $28.99 is justified by the jig’s quality components, durable construction, and proven effectiveness. I would definitely recommend it to any angler looking to add a finesse jig to their arsenal. Go ahead and give the Nichols Lures Ben Parker Hare Jig a try and experience the difference a well-designed finesse jig can make!