What Makes Spro Outsider Crank Stand Out?
The Spro Outsider Crank is designed to be a workhorse crankbait, built by Spro, a company known for quality fishing tackle. At a price point of $36.99, it aims to offer a compelling blend of durability and fish-catching action without breaking the bank. This immediately positions it as a viable option for anglers ranging from weekend warriors to seasoned tournament pros looking for a reliable bait.
I was seeking a crankbait that could handle repeated collisions with structure. I wanted something that would trigger reaction strikes in murky water, and the Spro Outsider Crank’s design seemed promising for this purpose.
Out of the box, the Spro Outsider Crank feels solid. The finish appears durable, and the hooks are sharp and appropriately sized. The overall build quality suggests it can withstand the rigors of fishing around rocks, wood, and other common underwater obstacles.
Comparable crankbaits include the Strike King KVD 1.5 and the Rapala DT6. I ultimately chose the Spro Outsider Crank because of its unique diving depth and the reputation of Spro for producing reliable, tournament-grade tackle. It promised a slightly different action and profile that I believed would give me an edge in pressured fishing conditions.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic about the Spro Outsider Crank. The construction seemed excellent, and the design suggested it could be a productive bait. I was eager to see how it performed in real-world fishing scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting Spro Outsider Crank to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Spro Outsider Crank was at a local reservoir known for its abundant largemouth bass and submerged timber. I targeted areas where the timber intersected with a shallow creek channel. The water was slightly stained, typical for this time of year.
The Spro Outsider Crank performed admirably. It tracked true and deflected off cover predictably. The bait’s ability to maintain its action while ticking the tops of submerged logs was notable, eliciting several aggressive strikes.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Spro Outsider Crank has held up remarkably well. There are minimal signs of wear and tear. The finish is surprisingly resistant to scratches and chips, even after repeated collisions with rocks.
Maintenance is straightforward: simply rinse it with fresh water after each use and occasionally check the sharpness of the hooks. I have yet to experience any issues with the hook hangers or the bill integrity. It has proven more durable than some other crankbaits I’ve used in the past, easily outperforming some cheaper alternatives.
Breaking Down the Features of Spro Outsider Crank
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Spro.
- Additional Features: No (referring to lack of included accessories).
The limited specifications provided by the manufacturer force us to look at the bait itself to determine key features. A crankbait’s effectiveness hinges on more than just a spec sheet. Diving depth, action, and profile are all critical.
Performance & Functionality
The Spro Outsider Crank’s performance is commendable. It dives quickly to its intended depth and maintains a consistent wobble. The bait excels at triggering reaction strikes when bounced off cover.
A notable strength is its ability to deflect off structure without losing its action. One potential weakness is that it might not be as effective in extremely clear water, where a more subtle presentation may be required. The bait meets expectations for a durable, mid-depth crankbait designed for fishing around cover.
Design & Ergonomics
The Spro Outsider Crank features a streamlined body shape. Its weight is well-balanced, allowing for long and accurate casts. The bait is comfortable to fish for extended periods, causing minimal fatigue.
The design is user-friendly. The bait requires no special tuning or adjustments straight out of the package. Anglers of all skill levels can effectively use it.
Durability & Maintenance
The Spro Outsider Crank appears built to last. The durable construction and chip-resistant finish suggest it will withstand heavy use. Maintenance is simple, requiring only basic cleaning and hook sharpening.
Accessories and Customization Options
The provided information indicates that the Spro Outsider Crank does not include any additional accessories. Anglers can customize the bait by changing the hooks to different sizes or styles to suit their preferences. It’s compatible with most standard crankbait hooks from brands like Owner, Gamakatsu, and Mustad.
Pros and Cons of Spro Outsider Crank
Pros
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand repeated collisions with cover.
- Consistent Action: Maintains a reliable wobble and tracking.
- Effective Deflection: Bounces off structure without losing its action, triggering reaction strikes.
- User-Friendly Design: Requires no special tuning and is easy for anglers of all levels to use.
- Excellent Value: Offers high performance at a reasonable price point.
Cons
- Limited Specifications: Lacks detailed specifications from the manufacturer, requiring reliance on hands-on experience.
- Basic Features: Lacks additional accessories or customization options included in some higher-end crankbaits.
Who Should Buy Spro Outsider Crank?
The Spro Outsider Crank is perfect for anglers targeting bass, pike, or walleye in areas with submerged timber, rocks, or other cover. It’s ideal for those seeking a durable and reliable crankbait that can trigger reaction strikes in murky water. This is also a great lure for anglers who don’t want to spend a fortune on a bait they know will be abused.
Anglers who primarily fish clear, open water or require highly specialized crankbaits with specific actions or diving depths might want to explore other options. Those looking for a crankbait with included accessories or advanced customization features should also consider alternatives.
Must-have modifications include upgrading the hooks to high-end trebles like Gamakatsu or Owner for improved hooksets.
Conclusion on Spro Outsider Crank
The Spro Outsider Crank delivers on its promise of durability and fish-catching action. Its robust construction and consistent performance make it a valuable addition to any angler’s tackle box. At $36.99, the price is justified for the quality and reliability it offers.
I would definitely recommend the Spro Outsider Crank to anglers looking for a dependable crankbait that can withstand the rigors of fishing around structure. It’s a workhorse lure that will produce results without breaking the bank. Go grab a Spro Outsider Crank and start cranking up some fish!