First Impressions of Reef Runner Little Ripper 500 Minnow, 7ft Diving Depth, 3 3/4in 1/4oz
The Reef Runner Little Ripper 500 Minnow, 7ft Diving Depth, 3 3/4in 1/4oz promises to be a versatile lure, a go-to for anglers targeting walleye, bass, and other predatory fish in that 5-10 foot range. Manufactured by Reef Runner, a brand known for its quality trolling and casting lures, this smaller version of the popular Ripper series aims to deliver big results in a compact package. Its size and dive depth make it ideal for situations where larger lures might spook finicky fish.
For years, I struggled to find a consistent lure that could reach that mid-depth zone effectively without requiring excessive weight or specialized techniques. I needed a lure that could be both cast and trolled with equal success. The compact size of the Reef Runner Little Ripper 500 Minnow immediately appealed to me, as did its advertised diving depth.
Upon receiving the lure, I was immediately impressed by the finish and the quality of the hooks. The Firetiger color pattern was vibrant and lifelike. The lure felt solid, though light, inspiring confidence in its ability to track straight and trigger strikes.
I’ve used lures like the Rapala Shad Rap and the Cotton Cordell Wally Diver, but they sometimes lacked the aggressive action I was looking for, or required significant modification to achieve the desired depth. This Reef Runner Little Ripper 500 Minnow appeared to offer the best of both worlds: a compact profile with an enticing wobble, ready to fish right out of the package. I was eager to get it in the water.
My initial impression was one of excitement and cautious optimism. It seemed to be well-built and designed, but the true test would be its performance in real-world fishing conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Reef Runner Little Ripper 500 Minnow, 7ft Diving Depth, 3 3/4in 1/4oz to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Reef Runner Little Ripper 500 Minnow on a local reservoir known for its walleye population. I primarily fished from a kayak, targeting areas along submerged weed lines and rocky drop-offs. The water was clear, and the weather was calm, with a slight breeze.
The lure performed admirably in these conditions, quickly diving to its advertised depth and maintaining a consistent wobble. Casting was easy, even in the wind, thanks to its compact size and weight. Within the first hour, I landed two decent walleye and several smaller bass, a testament to the lure’s ability to attract fish.
There were no immediate issues or surprises, other than being impressed by how well the lure held its depth, even when retrieved at a moderate speed. I did notice the treble hooks were a bit small for larger fish, and considered swapping them out.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Reef Runner Little Ripper 500 Minnow has become a staple in my tackle box. It continues to produce consistent results, even in varying water conditions and weather patterns. It has proven itself to be a reliable and effective lure for targeting walleye and bass in the 5-10 foot depth range.
The lure has held up remarkably well, showing minimal signs of wear and tear, despite numerous encounters with rocks and submerged timber. The finish remains bright and vibrant, and the plastic body has proven to be durable. I did eventually upgrade the treble hooks to slightly larger, stronger ones, after having a few fish throw the stock hooks.
Maintenance is simple: a quick rinse with fresh water after each use is all that’s needed to keep it in top condition. Compared to some other crankbaits I’ve used, the Reef Runner Little Ripper 500 Minnow has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and performance. It has earned its place as a go-to lure in my arsenal.
Breaking Down the Features of Reef Runner Little Ripper 500 Minnow, 7ft Diving Depth, 3 3/4in 1/4oz
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Reef Runner
- Lure Type: Jerkbaits; also suitable as a cast and retrieve crankbait.
- Tackle Weight: 1/4 oz – This weight is optimal for casting distance and maintaining proper lure action.
- Color: Firetiger – A proven fish-attracting color pattern in a variety of water conditions.
- Running Depth: 7 ft – Precisely targets mid-depth zones where many predatory fish patrol.
- Length: 3 3/4 in – A compact size that appeals to a wide range of fish species.
- Lure Type: Cast and Retrieve – Offers versatility in fishing techniques.
These specifications are crucial because they define the lure’s intended use and performance characteristics. The 1/4 oz weight allows for easy casting and precise control. The 7ft diving depth places the lure right in the strike zone for many walleye and bass.
Performance & Functionality
The Reef Runner Little Ripper 500 Minnow excels at its primary function: attracting and catching fish. Its tight wobble and realistic profile effectively mimic a fleeing baitfish. The lure consistently runs true and dives to its specified depth, making it easy to target specific areas.
The primary strength lies in its consistent performance and ability to trigger strikes, even when other lures fail. One weakness is the stock treble hooks which could be upgraded for larger species. Overall, the lure meets and even exceeds expectations for a crankbait in its size and price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The Reef Runner Little Ripper 500 Minnow boasts a streamlined design and a durable plastic body. The build quality is excellent for a lure in this price range. The lure feels comfortable in hand and is easy to handle, even with wet hands.
The lure is undeniably user-friendly, requiring no special techniques or modifications to achieve its intended action. It is a great lure for both novice and experienced anglers.
Durability & Maintenance
The Reef Runner Little Ripper 500 Minnow appears to be built to last, capable of withstanding the rigors of regular use. The durable plastic body resists cracking and chipping. The finish is surprisingly resistant to fading and scratching.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only a quick rinse after each use to remove dirt and debris. With proper care, this lure should provide many seasons of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Reef Runner Little Ripper 500 Minnow does not come with any additional accessories. However, the lure can be easily customized by changing the treble hooks to different sizes or styles. Swapping out the split rings is also a common modification.
The lure is compatible with most standard treble hooks and split rings available from various brands. Some anglers may also choose to add weight to the lure to achieve greater depths.
Pros and Cons of Reef Runner Little Ripper 500 Minnow, 7ft Diving Depth, 3 3/4in 1/4oz
Pros
- Effective Fish Attractor: Proven to entice strikes from walleye, bass, and other predatory fish.
- Consistent Running Depth: Accurately achieves and maintains its advertised 7ft diving depth.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of regular use, with a tough plastic body and resilient finish.
- Easy to Use: Requires no special techniques or modifications; suitable for anglers of all skill levels.
- Versatile Application: Can be effectively used for both casting and trolling.
Cons
- Stock Treble Hooks: May need to be upgraded for larger or more aggressive fish species.
- Limited Color Options: The availability of different color patterns may be restricted depending on the retailer.
Who Should Buy Reef Runner Little Ripper 500 Minnow, 7ft Diving Depth, 3 3/4in 1/4oz?
The Reef Runner Little Ripper 500 Minnow is perfect for anglers targeting walleye, bass, and other predatory fish in the 5-10 foot depth range. It’s also a great choice for those who prefer a compact and versatile crankbait that can be used for both casting and trolling. Kayak anglers and those fishing from smaller boats will appreciate its ease of use and consistent performance.
This lure may not be the best choice for anglers targeting extremely deep water or those specifically seeking trophy-sized fish, as the stock hooks might be a limiting factor.
A must-have modification is to replace the stock treble hooks with sturdier, larger ones.
Conclusion on Reef Runner Little Ripper 500 Minnow, 7ft Diving Depth, 3 3/4in 1/4oz
The Reef Runner Little Ripper 500 Minnow is an excellent crankbait that delivers consistent performance and exceptional value. Its ability to accurately reach and maintain its advertised depth, combined with its durable construction and ease of use, make it a standout choice for anglers of all skill levels.
The price is more than justified, considering its effectiveness and longevity. I would absolutely recommend the Reef Runner Little Ripper 500 Minnow to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile lure for targeting walleye, bass, and other predatory fish in the mid-depth range.
Add the Reef Runner Little Ripper 500 Minnow to your tackle box today and experience the difference! You won’t be disappointed.