First Impressions of Storm Original Jointed Thunderstick Lure, Suspending
The Storm Original Jointed Thunderstick Lure, Suspending promises to be a versatile addition to any angler’s tackle box, especially those targeting predatory fish in the 2-4 foot depth range. From Storm, a name synonymous with effective and reliable fishing lures, this jointed jerkbait aims to mimic the natural movements of baitfish, enticing strikes from even the most cautious predators. As a seasoned angler with over a decade of experience, I’m always on the lookout for lures that combine realism, durability, and consistent performance, and the Jointed Thunderstick immediately piqued my interest.
I was looking for a lure that could effectively target suspended fish in shallow to moderately deep water, a common scenario in my local lakes. My current hard baits weren’t performing well in situations where the fish were finicky and required a subtle, life-like presentation. Upon receiving the Storm Original Jointed Thunderstick Lure, Suspending, my first impression was positive. The finish was clean, the jointed construction felt robust, and the overall design looked like it could deliver the enticing action I was seeking.
Compared to similar jointed lures from brands like Rapala or Lucky Craft, the Storm Original Jointed Thunderstick Lure, Suspending stands out due to its price point. While the others offer premium finishes and potentially more intricate action, they come at a significantly higher cost. I chose the Storm lure as a cost-effective option to test the waters (literally!) before investing in more expensive jerkbaits. My initial excitement was tempered with a bit of skepticism, hoping that the lower price didn’t translate to inferior performance on the water.
Real-World Testing: Putting Storm Original Jointed Thunderstick Lure, Suspending to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Storm Original Jointed Thunderstick Lure, Suspending came during a late spring bass fishing trip to Lake Guntersville, Alabama. I focused my efforts on areas with submerged grass lines in about 3-4 feet of water, hoping to entice some largemouth bass. The water was slightly stained, and the weather was overcast, creating conditions where a suspending jerkbait should excel.
The lure performed admirably right out of the gate. The jointed design created a very natural swimming action with minimal effort, and the lure suspended perfectly at the advertised depth. It took me a few casts to dial in the right retrieve cadence, a slow twitch-twitch-pause, but once I did, the lure proved effective. I landed two bass in the 2-3 pound range, and both fish aggressively attacked the lure, confirming its appeal. There were no immediate issues, and I was pleasantly surprised by its performance given the price.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Storm Original Jointed Thunderstick Lure, Suspending has held up surprisingly well. While the finish shows some minor scratches from contact with rocks and submerged timber, the lure’s overall structural integrity remains intact. The hooks have remained sharp, and the joints haven’t loosened, indicating a decent level of durability.
Maintaining the lure is simple; a quick rinse with freshwater after each use keeps it clean and prevents corrosion. I haven’t needed to replace any components yet. In comparison to some other, more expensive jerkbaits I’ve used, the Storm lure doesn’t have the same level of refined action or intricate detail. However, for its price point, its performance and durability are certainly impressive.
Breaking Down the Features of Storm Original Jointed Thunderstick Lure, Suspending
Specifications
The Storm Original Jointed Thunderstick Lure, Suspending boasts a set of specifications designed for enticing predatory fish in shallow to moderate depths. This lure is classified as a jerkbait with a tackle weight of 5/8 oz (0.625 oz), allowing for decent casting distance and control. The running depth of 2 ft – 4 ft makes it ideal for targeting fish holding near the surface or around submerged structure.
The lure’s length of 5.5 inches presents a substantial profile that mimics a variety of baitfish species. The suspending buoyancy is crucial, allowing the lure to pause enticingly in the strike zone. It falls under the Lure Type: Cast and Retrieve category, making it accessible to anglers of all skill levels. These specifications combine to create a lure that is both versatile and effective in a range of fishing scenarios.
Performance & Functionality
The Storm Original Jointed Thunderstick Lure, Suspending performs admirably in its intended role, effectively mimicking the movement of an injured baitfish. Its suspending action is a key strength, allowing it to remain in the strike zone and trigger strikes from wary predators. While it might not have the hyper-realistic action of higher-end jerkbaits, it’s certainly effective at attracting fish.
The lure’s main strength lies in its consistent performance and ease of use. The biggest weakness would be that the factory hooks may need upgrading for larger, more aggressive species. It definitely meets expectations, especially considering its budget-friendly price.
Design & Ergonomics
The Storm Original Jointed Thunderstick Lure, Suspending features a simple yet effective design. The jointed body allows for a more natural swimming action, and the finishes, while not overly elaborate, are durable enough to withstand regular use. The lure has decent weight for its size and feels well-balanced in hand.
The lure is incredibly user-friendly with no real learning curve. Anglers of all skill levels can effectively use it with a simple cast-and-retrieve technique.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Storm Original Jointed Thunderstick Lure, Suspending should last for multiple seasons. The plastic body is relatively durable and can withstand the occasional bump against rocks or timber.
Maintaining the lure is straightforward; rinsing it with freshwater after each use is usually sufficient. Replacing the hooks as needed will help extend its lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Storm Original Jointed Thunderstick Lure, Suspending doesn’t come with any specific accessories, focusing on providing a ready-to-fish package. However, there are ample opportunities for customization.
Upgrading the hooks to a higher-quality brand like Gamakatsu or Owner is a common modification. Anglers can also add split rings for easier hook replacement or adjust the lure’s weight by adding small weights to the belly. The lure’s compatibility with standard split rings and hooks makes it easy to customize to suit individual fishing styles and target species.
Pros and Cons of Storm Original Jointed Thunderstick Lure, Suspending
Pros
- The suspending action allows it to stay in the strike zone longer, enticing strikes from finicky fish.
- Its jointed design provides a realistic swimming action that mimics injured baitfish.
- The Storm Original Jointed Thunderstick Lure, Suspending is incredibly affordable, making it accessible to anglers on a budget.
- It’s easy to use, suitable for both beginner and experienced anglers.
- The lure’s versatility allows it to be used in a variety of fishing conditions and for targeting multiple species.
Cons
- The factory hooks may need upgrading for larger, more aggressive fish.
- The finish, while durable, isn’t as detailed or realistic as higher-end jerkbaits.
Who Should Buy Storm Original Jointed Thunderstick Lure, Suspending?
The Storm Original Jointed Thunderstick Lure, Suspending is perfect for casual anglers, weekend warriors, and those looking for an effective and affordable jerkbait. It’s a great choice for anglers targeting bass, walleye, pike, and other predatory fish in shallow to moderately deep water.
Anglers who are seeking the absolute highest level of realism and detail in their lures or those exclusively targeting trophy-sized fish might consider investing in higher-end options. Must-have modifications include upgrading the hooks to improve hook-up ratios and potentially adding weight to fine-tune the lure’s suspending action.
Conclusion on Storm Original Jointed Thunderstick Lure, Suspending
The Storm Original Jointed Thunderstick Lure, Suspending delivers exceptional value for its price. It’s a reliable and effective lure that can consistently produce fish in the right conditions.
The price is absolutely justified, making it a fantastic option for anglers of all skill levels and budgets. I would definitely recommend it as a go-to jerkbait, especially for those just starting out or looking to expand their tackle box without breaking the bank. Add the Storm Original Jointed Thunderstick Lure, Suspending to your arsenal today and experience the thrill of reeling in your next trophy catch!