Rapala CrushCity Bronco Bug Review

What Makes Rapala CrushCity Bronco Bug Stand Out?

The Rapala CrushCity Bronco Bug is not your run-of-the-mill soft plastic bait; it’s a meticulously designed lure from Rapala, promising a unique action that tantalizes bass. The key selling points are its double-sided ribbed body, allowing versatile rigging, hinged arms for dual actions, and subtle forward-facing legs. I wanted to review this particular bait because it looked like something the pressured bass in my local lake haven’t seen yet.

I’ve been fishing for over a decade, and I’m always on the lookout for innovative designs that offer an edge. I was looking for a bait that could generate subtle yet enticing movements, especially when fishing in clear water with finicky bass. The Bronco Bug’s multi-faceted design seemed to check all the right boxes.

Upon unboxing, the Rapala CrushCity Bronco Bug immediately impressed me with its tactile feel and intricate details. The plastic had a pleasant, subtle scent and felt durable yet flexible. The ribbed body, hinged arms, and forward-facing legs were all perfectly molded, exhibiting high build quality.

Compared to similar creature baits like the Zoom Brush Hog or the Berkley PowerBait Craw, the Bronco Bug stands out due to its unique combination of actions and its smaller profile. I also considered the Strike King Rage Bug, but I decided to go with the CrushCity Bronco Bug because the hinged arms seemed like they would provide a more realistic swimming action. I chose this bait because of the promise of a unique and subtle presentation.

My first impression was excitement mingled with a touch of skepticism – could this seemingly unconventional design translate into real-world results? I was eager to get it on the water and see if it could live up to the hype.

Real-World Testing: Putting Rapala CrushCity Bronco Bug to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Rapala CrushCity Bronco Bug on a local, heavily pressured lake known for its clear water and finicky bass. I focused on areas with submerged vegetation and rocky outcroppings, rigging the bait on a Texas rig with a 1/4 oz tungsten weight. The water clarity was exceptional, and the weather was calm with a slight breeze.

The Bronco Bug performed admirably in the clear water. The hinged arms and forward-facing legs created a subtle, realistic swimming action even with minimal rod movement. It was easy to impart action with subtle twitches of the rod tip, making it ideal for pressured fish.

The bait was easy to rig and use right out of the package. I did experiment with different rigging options, including Texas rigging it both forwards and backwards to test the different actions. There were no issues on the first outing; the bait held up well to multiple casts and retrieves.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Rapala CrushCity Bronco Bug has proven to be a reliable and effective bait. The plastic is surprisingly durable; I’ve caught multiple fish on a single bait before needing to replace it. It is certainly more durable than some of the other creature baits I have used over the years.

There are minimal signs of wear and tear after weeks of use. The hinged arms still move freely, and the ribbed body hasn’t torn or ripped. This durability is especially impressive considering the intricate design.

The Bronco Bug requires minimal maintenance. I simply rinse it off with water after each use to remove any debris or scent attractants. I find it is important to keep my tackle organized to avoid deforming the soft plastics.

Compared to previous experiences with other creature baits, the Bronco Bug has consistently outperformed them in clear water conditions with pressured fish. Its subtle action and versatile rigging options have proven to be a winning combination. The Bronco Bug has exceeded my expectations, proving itself as a valuable addition to my tackle box.

Breaking Down the Features of Rapala CrushCity Bronco Bug

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Rapala.
• Unique Action Body: Double-sided ribs for versatile rigging.
• Hinged Arms: Create unique dual actions.
• Forward-Facing Legs: Provides subtle, secondary action with the slightest movement.
• Additional Features: No additional features (meaning no rattles, scents, etc. beyond the base plastic).

These specifications matter because they all contribute to the Bronco Bug’s unique action and versatility. The double-sided ribs allow for Texas rigging, Carolina rigging, or even using it as a jig trailer with different presentations. The hinged arms and legs generate subtle movements that attract fish without being overly aggressive, making it perfect for pressured waters.

Performance & Functionality

The Rapala CrushCity Bronco Bug excels at enticing pressured bass with its subtle and realistic movements. It allows me to present a unique profile and action that differs from the more aggressive creature baits. It is also a very effective bait when used as a trailer on the back of a jig.

Its strengths lie in its ability to generate subtle movements, its versatile rigging options, and its durable construction. A potential weakness is that its smaller profile may not be as effective in murky water or when targeting larger fish. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations, especially in clear water conditions.

Design & Ergonomics

The Bronco Bug’s design is well-thought-out and executed. The materials used are high-quality and durable, and the overall build quality is excellent. The weight is balanced, making it easy to cast and retrieve.

It is user-friendly and requires no special tools or techniques to rig and use. There is no learning curve; even beginners can quickly master its presentation.

Durability & Maintenance

The Bronco Bug is surprisingly durable for a soft plastic bait with intricate design elements. With proper care, it should last for multiple fishing trips. The key to longevity is to avoid excessive stretching or tearing during rigging and to store it properly in a tackle box away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

Maintenance is simple: rinse it off with water after each use and store it in a dedicated compartment in your tackle box. There are no specific repair procedures required, but minor tears can be easily fixed with super glue.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Rapala CrushCity Bronco Bug does not come with any specific accessories. However, it is highly customizable and compatible with a wide range of rigging options. You can pair it with different hooks, weights, and line types to suit various fishing conditions.

It is also compatible with popular jig heads and swimbait hooks. Some anglers also add rattles or scent attractants to further enhance its effectiveness. Experimenting with different rigging styles and accessories is part of the fun.

Pros and Cons of Rapala CrushCity Bronco Bug

Who Should Buy Rapala CrushCity Bronco Bug?

Perfect for anglers who fish in clear water conditions with pressured bass. It is also an excellent choice for anyone looking for a versatile and durable creature bait with a unique action. The Rapala CrushCity Bronco Bug is especially good for pro anglers in tournaments looking for an edge on their competition.

This product may not be ideal for anglers who primarily fish in murky water or who are solely focused on targeting trophy-sized bass. Anglers that need a bait that displaces a lot of water will be better served looking elsewhere.

Must-have accessories include a selection of Texas rig weights and hooks in various sizes. Experimenting with different jig heads and swimbait hooks can also unlock new presentation possibilities.

Conclusion on Rapala CrushCity Bronco Bug

The Rapala CrushCity Bronco Bug is a well-designed and effective creature bait that offers a unique combination of action, versatility, and durability. It truly is a next generation bait. Its subtle movements are perfect for enticing pressured bass in clear water conditions, and its versatile rigging options allow for experimentation and customization.

The price of $9.49 for a pack of baits is justified by the quality of construction and the effectiveness of the design. While it may not be the best choice for all fishing situations, it is a valuable addition to any angler’s tackle box.

I would personally recommend the Rapala CrushCity Bronco Bug to anyone looking for a subtle and effective creature bait. Give it a try and see how it can help you catch more fish! Its unique design and proven performance make it a worthwhile investment.