First Impressions of Spike It Double Marker
The Spike It Double Marker promises a simple yet effective way to customize soft plastic lures. The Spike It brand aims to provide anglers with tools to adapt to ever-changing fishing conditions. These markers offer both scent and color alteration capabilities, packaged in an easy-to-use design.
I’ve always been on the lookout for quick, on-the-water lure modification solutions. Many times, I’ve been fishing and noticed subtle changes in water clarity or forage that made my go-to lures less effective. The promise of instant color and scent adjustments intrigued me, potentially offering a solution without needing to re-rig constantly.
Upon receiving the Spike It Double Marker, the first thing I noticed was its compact size and dual-ended design. It felt like a slightly thicker permanent marker, easy to grip and handle. The build quality seemed adequate for its intended use, with no immediate concerns about leakage or durability.
I’ve used other scent attractants in the past, like gels and sprays, and even tried dipping lures in scented dyes. These options can be messy and time-consuming, especially on a moving boat. The Spike It Double Marker appeared to offer a cleaner, more precise application method.
Initially, I was optimistic about the Spike It Double Marker. The concept of a mess-free, portable lure customization tool was appealing. I was eager to test its color vibrancy, scent longevity, and overall impact on fish attraction.
Real-World Testing: Putting Spike It Double Marker to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Spike It Double Marker during a bass fishing trip to a local reservoir. The water was slightly stained from recent rainfall. I applied the marker to a few soft plastic worms and creature baits, focusing on the tails and appendages.
The application was incredibly easy. It was much cleaner and more precise than using dipping dyes or gels. I experimented with different color combinations to see how the marker would blend and alter the lure’s appearance in the water.
There were no issues with the marker drying out or clogging during the initial use. The scent seemed strong but not overpowering. I noticed a slight color bleed into the water immediately after application, but it didn’t appear to significantly impact the lure’s color.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Spike It Double Marker held up surprisingly well. The color vibrancy did fade slightly with repeated use and exposure to sunlight. However, the scent seemed to linger for a decent amount of time, even after multiple casts.
I experienced no significant issues with durability. The marker tips remained intact, and the barrels didn’t crack or leak. I noticed some minor staining on my tackle bag from accidental contact with the marker, suggesting it’s best to store it carefully.
Maintenance was minimal. I simply wiped the marker tips clean after each use to prevent clogging. I also made sure to store the markers horizontally to prevent the ink from pooling at one end.
Compared to other scent attractants and lure dyes I’ve used, the Spike It Double Marker offers a much more convenient and mess-free application. While the color might not be as long-lasting as a full lure dye, the ease of use and portability make it a valuable tool for on-the-water adjustments. It’s become a regular part of my tackle bag.
Breaking Down the Features of Spike It Double Marker
Specifications
The Spike It Double Marker is designed for quick and easy lure customization. It comes in a 2-pack, offering a variety of color combinations and scents. The intended user demographic is adults.
Manufacturer: Spike It
- Quantity: 2pk
- Gender: Unisex
- Age Group: Adults
These specifications highlight the product’s core purpose: convenient, on-the-go lure enhancement for anglers of all skill levels. The two-pack allows for experimentation with different color and scent combinations. It gives a wider range of options without having to carry multiple individual markers.
Performance & Functionality
The Spike It Double Marker excels at quickly adding scent and color accents to soft plastic lures. The markers apply smoothly and evenly, allowing for precise customization of lure appearance. The scented ink is designed to attract fish, enhancing the lure’s effectiveness.
The primary strength of the Spike It Double Marker is its ease of use and portability. The colors are vibrant and noticeable in the water, at least initially. A potential weakness is the longevity of the color, which can fade with extended use.
It mostly meets expectations. It provides a quick and convenient way to add scent and color to lures on the water. However, the color fading could be improved for better long-term performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The Spike It Double Marker features a simple, pen-like design that’s easy to grip and control. The dual-ended configuration allows for carrying two different colors or scents in a single marker. The marker is lightweight and compact, making it easy to store in a tackle box or bag.
The build quality is adequate for its intended use. The materials seem durable enough to withstand normal wear and tear. The marker is user-friendly, with no significant learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Spike It Double Marker should last for a reasonable amount of time. The ink supply seems sufficient for multiple fishing trips. The marker tips are relatively durable but could potentially be damaged if used roughly or on abrasive surfaces.
Maintenance is straightforward. Simply wipe the marker tips clean after each use and store the markers horizontally to prevent the ink from pooling. Avoid leaving the markers exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods, as this can cause the ink to fade.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Spike It Double Marker does not come with any additional accessories beyond the two markers in the pack. Customization is primarily limited to the color and scent combinations offered in different Spike It marker sets. No external customization is available.
While the Spike It Double Marker itself doesn’t directly integrate with other accessories, it can be used in conjunction with various soft plastic lures and fishing tackle. Anglers can experiment with different marker colors and scents to complement their existing lure collections. The markers do not require special tools or modifications to use effectively.
Pros and Cons of Spike It Double Marker
Pros
- Ease of Use: Applying color and scent to lures is quick, clean, and simple, even on a boat.
- Portability: The compact size makes it easy to carry in a tackle box or bag without taking up much space.
- Versatility: The dual-ended design offers two colors/scents in one, allowing for diverse lure customization.
- Scent Enhancement: The scented ink can attract fish and improve lure effectiveness, particularly in stained water.
- Affordable Price: At $7.99 for a two-pack, it’s an inexpensive way to experiment with lure customization.
Cons
- Color Fading: The color vibrancy may fade over time with repeated use and exposure to sunlight.
- Potential Staining: Accidental contact with the marker can cause staining on tackle bags or clothing.
Who Should Buy Spike It Double Marker?
The Spike It Double Marker is perfect for bass anglers, crappie anglers, and other freshwater fishermen who frequently use soft plastic lures. It benefits those who like to experiment with different colors and scents to match changing water conditions and fish preferences. It’s also ideal for anglers looking for a quick and convenient way to enhance their lures on the water.
Anglers who prefer more permanent lure customization methods, such as dipping dyes or airbrushing, might want to skip this product. Those who primarily fish with hard baits or lures that don’t allow for color modification may also find it less useful. Those who are excessively worried about staining of their gear should also avoid this product.
A must-have “accessory” is a good understanding of your local fishery and the color preferences of the fish you’re targeting. Consider carrying a variety of Spike It Double Markers in different colors and scents to cover a wide range of conditions.
Conclusion on Spike It Double Marker
The Spike It Double Marker offers a convenient and affordable way to customize soft plastic lures. Its ease of use, portability, and versatility make it a valuable addition to any angler’s tackle bag. While the color may fade over time, the scented ink and quick application provide a significant advantage on the water.
The price of $7.99 for a two-pack is definitely justified, considering the convenience and potential impact on fishing success. The Spike It Double Marker provides tangible results and the ability to adjust to fishing conditions.
I would personally recommend the Spike It Double Marker to anglers who want to experiment with lure customization without the hassle of more complicated methods. It’s an excellent tool for fine-tuning lure appearance and attracting fish in various water conditions. Grab a pack, hit the water, and see how the Spike It Double Marker can enhance your fishing experience!
