Northland Fishing Tackle Glo-Shot Jig Review

First Impressions of Northland Fishing Tackle Glo-Shot Jig

The Northland Fishing Tackle Glo-Shot Jig is a unique offering in the world of ice fishing and dark-water angling. Manufactured by Northland Fishing Tackle, this jig combines a vibrant, replaceable Glo-Shot stick with a fixed single hook, promising to attract fish in challenging conditions. I was immediately drawn to the jig’s promise of enhanced visibility and its versatility in both deadsticking and vertical jigging scenarios.

Years of guiding ice fishing expeditions and chasing walleye in murky waters have taught me the importance of visibility. Finding effective lures that cut through the gloom is a constant quest. I’ve tried countless jigs, spoons, and lighted attractors. So, the Glo-Shot Jig seemed like a worthwhile addition to my arsenal, potentially offering a significant advantage when other lures fail.

Unboxing the Glo-Shot Jig, my first impression was one of thoughtful design. The jig feels lightweight yet sturdy, the paint job is durable, and the Glo-Shot stick inserts and removes smoothly. The fixed hook is sharp and appears well-suited for securing smaller live baits.

Compared to other popular ice fishing jigs like the Lindy Fuzz-E-Grub or the Custom Jigs & Spins Ratfinkee, the Northland Fishing Tackle Glo-Shot Jig stands out due to its integrated light source. While the Lindy Fuzz-E-Grub relies on its fuzzy body and the Ratfinkee boasts a unique shape and action, neither offers the immediate visual attraction of the Glo-Shot. I chose the Glo-Shot hoping that the added visibility would be the key to unlocking finicky fish in low-light environments. I was excited to test whether the light would be a game changer, or simply a gimmick.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Northland Fishing Tackle Glo-Shot Jig to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Northland Fishing Tackle Glo-Shot Jig on a late-season ice fishing trip targeting walleye in a stained reservoir known for its perpetually murky conditions. The water visibility was maybe two feet, even on a bright day. I primarily used the jig in conjunction with a deadsticking rod, suspending it just above the bottom with a small, lightly hooked shiner minnow.

The jig performed admirably. The Glo-Shot stick provided a noticeable glow that was easily visible on my underwater camera. It seemed to draw curious glances from the walleye that cruised through. I initially struggled with hookups, but after downsizing my minnow and paying closer attention to the feel of the bite, I started landing fish consistently.

There were no immediate issues. The jig held up well to the cold and repeated use. I was slightly concerned about the Glo-Shot stick potentially breaking, but it remained intact throughout the day.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of using the Northland Fishing Tackle Glo-Shot Jig on various ice fishing trips and even some open-water crappie fishing, I can confidently say it’s a reliable lure. The paint has held up remarkably well, showing minimal chipping despite banging against rocks and other lures in my tackle box. The fixed hook remains sharp and strong.

Maintenance is incredibly simple. Rinsing the jig with fresh water after each use is usually sufficient to keep it clean. The Glo-Shot sticks last for several hours of continuous use, and replacements are readily available. I haven’t had to replace the hook or any other components.

Compared to other jigs I’ve used in the past, the Glo-Shot excels in low-visibility situations. While it might not be necessary in clear water, its visibility boost in murky conditions is undeniable. It’s quickly become my go-to jig for fishing stained water or during low-light periods.

Breaking Down the Features of Northland Fishing Tackle Glo-Shot Jig

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Northland Fishing Tackle. A well-respected name in the fishing industry, known for producing quality lures and tackle.
• Jig Type: Jig Head. A standard jig head design allows for versatile rigging and presentations.
• Tackle Weight: 1/8 oz. This weight is ideal for finesse presentations and targeting fish in shallower water or with lighter line.
• Quantity: 1. The jig is sold individually, allowing anglers to purchase specific colors and weights as needed.
• Luminescent Glo-Shot Stick: This stick inserts into the jig head and glows, attracting fish in low light. The ability to change colors allows for adapting to specific water conditions.
• Fixed Single-Hook Design: This design is well-suited for deadsticking or fishing with live bait below a bobber. The single hook provides good hooking potential and reduces snags.
• Lead-Free Construction: The jig is constructed using lead-free materials, making it environmentally friendly. This is an increasingly important consideration for anglers concerned about lead contamination.

The specifications matter because they define the jig’s intended use and performance characteristics. The 1/8 oz weight makes it ideal for finesse presentations, while the Glo-Shot stick enhances visibility in dark water. The lead-free construction is a responsible choice for the environment.

Performance & Functionality

The Northland Fishing Tackle Glo-Shot Jig performs exceptionally well in its intended role: attracting fish in low-light or stained water conditions. Its unique combination of a vibrant glow and a natural jigging action proves highly effective. It stands up as a great way to grab the attention of sluggish walleye on the ice.

The primary strength of the Glo-Shot Jig is its visibility. The luminescent stick radiates color, creating an enticing target for fish in dark or murky water. The fixed hook design is also a strength, providing a secure hold on live bait.

One potential weakness is the 1/8 oz weight. In strong currents or deeper water, a heavier jig might be necessary to maintain proper presentation. Anglers fishing in these conditions might want to explore other jig options.

Overall, the Glo-Shot Jig meets and often exceeds expectations, especially when targeting fish in challenging visibility. The enhanced attraction of the light is hard to ignore.

Design & Ergonomics

The Northland Fishing Tackle Glo-Shot Jig features a simple yet effective design. The jig head is well-shaped for both vertical jigging and deadsticking. The weight is balanced, allowing for a natural presentation.

The materials used are of good quality. The paint is durable, and the Glo-Shot stick is easy to insert and remove. The weight of the jig is light, which lends to a natural presentation.

There’s no real learning curve. The jig is easy to use right out of the package. Anglers familiar with jig fishing will instantly feel comfortable using the Glo-Shot.

Durability & Maintenance

The Northland Fishing Tackle Glo-Shot Jig is a durable lure that should last for multiple seasons with proper care. The paint resists chipping, and the hook remains sharp even after repeated use. The replaceable Glo-Shot sticks are inexpensive and readily available, ensuring long-term usability.

Maintaining the jig is simple. Rinsing it with fresh water after each use and storing it in a tackle box away from direct sunlight is generally sufficient. Replacing the Glo-Shot sticks as needed will keep the jig performing optimally.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Northland Fishing Tackle Glo-Shot Jig itself doesn’t come with many accessories, but its design allows for various customization options. The primary accessory is the replacement Glo-Shot Stick. These are available in a range of colors, allowing anglers to match the hatch or experiment with different attracting hues.

The jig is also compatible with a wide variety of live baits and soft plastics. Anglers can tip the hook with minnows, worms, leeches, or plastic trailers to further enhance its attraction. The single hook allows for a great range of plastic trailers, increasing the possible jig profiles.

While the jig itself isn’t directly compatible with aftermarket accessories like optics or specialized grips, its versatility allows anglers to tailor its presentation to specific fishing conditions and target species.

Pros and Cons of Northland Fishing Tackle Glo-Shot Jig

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Who Should Buy Northland Fishing Tackle Glo-Shot Jig?

The Northland Fishing Tackle Glo-Shot Jig is perfect for ice anglers, walleye anglers, crappie anglers, and anyone who frequently fishes in low-light or stained water conditions. It’s an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced anglers looking to enhance their lure presentation. If you are a tackle enthusiast, this will give you a new tool in the tackle box.

This product might not be ideal for anglers who primarily fish in clear water or who prefer heavier jigs for deep-water fishing. A clear water environment will not benefit from the Glo-Shot. Anglers should also skip this product if they need a heavier presentation.

A must-have accessory is a selection of replacement Glo-Shot sticks in various colors. Experimenting with different colors can help identify the most effective attractant for specific water conditions and target species.

Conclusion on Northland Fishing Tackle Glo-Shot Jig

The Northland Fishing Tackle Glo-Shot Jig is a well-designed and effective lure that delivers on its promise of enhanced visibility and versatility. Its durable construction, ease of use, and affordable price make it an excellent value for anglers of all skill levels. The lead-free construction is a bonus.

The price of $9.99 is justified given the jig’s unique features and performance. The Glo-Shot stick really sets it apart. It is well worth the price point for the unique features this lure brings.

I would personally recommend the Northland Fishing Tackle Glo-Shot Jig to anyone looking to improve their success in low-light or stained water conditions. The Glo-Shot is my go to when the water is stained. Add this to your tackle box today!