Vudu Rattler Shrimp Review

First Impressions of Vudu Rattler Shrimp

The Vudu Rattler Shrimp by Vudu promises a tantalizing combination of sight and sound to entice even the most finicky of fish. This 3.5-inch soft bait boasts a unique design, featuring a belly pocket for scent and a removable rattle, aiming to be a versatile addition to any angler’s tackle box. I was immediately intrigued by its potential to solve a problem I often face: attracting fish in murky or noisy waters.

Having spent countless hours on the water, I’ve learned that presentation is key, and sometimes you need something extra to get a bite. The Vudu Rattler Shrimp seemed to offer just that extra edge, a way to appeal to fish through multiple senses.

Upon receiving the Vudu Rattler Shrimp, I was impressed by the initial build quality. The soft plastic felt durable yet pliable, and the integrated rattle was securely housed within the belly pocket. Its design was unique, with the belly pocket promising a way to hold scents to add a stronger draw.

Compared to other shrimp imitations like the Z-Man TRD ShrimpZ or the Berkley Gulp! Shrimp, the Vudu Rattler Shrimp stands out due to its integrated rattle system and scent pocket. While the Z-Man focuses on durability and the Berkley on scent dispersion, Vudu aims for a multi-sensory approach. I picked the Vudu Rattler Shrimp hoping the rattle would be the X-factor to draw in fish.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The design was innovative, and the build quality seemed solid, but I was eager to see how it would perform in real-world conditions. I was excited to use this lure in the upcoming weeks.

Real-World Testing: Putting Vudu Rattler Shrimp to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Vudu Rattler Shrimp took place on a brackish water estuary known for its redfish and speckled trout. I fished it along oyster beds and grass flats, rigging it on a 1/8 oz jig head with a loop knot to allow the bait to move freely. The day was overcast with a slight chop on the water.

The Vudu Rattler Shrimp performed well in the moderate conditions, with the rattle providing a distinct clicking sound that I could hear even above the wind. Several casts yielded strikes, and I managed to land a couple of decent-sized speckled trout, but the redfish eluded me on that initial outing. The rattle was effective, and I could see the fish drawn to the sound.

The bait was easy to use, requiring no special techniques. I simply cast, let it sink to the desired depth, and then used a slow, steady retrieve with occasional twitches to mimic a fleeing shrimp. There were no immediate issues, although I did notice the plastic becoming slightly torn near the jig head after several casts.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Vudu Rattler Shrimp has proven to be a reliable addition to my tackle box. It has held up surprisingly well, considering the abuse it’s taken from oyster shells, barnacles, and the teeth of hungry fish. I have used it in a variety of saltwater environments.

While the plastic does show some signs of wear and tear, especially around the hook insertion point, it hasn’t fallen apart completely. A drop of super glue after each trip helps to prolong its life. The rattle remains securely in place, and the scent pocket is a practical feature that I appreciate.

Maintenance is simple: rinsing it with freshwater after each use and storing it properly in a tackle box away from direct sunlight. The Vudu Rattler Shrimp has outperformed other soft baits I’ve used in terms of attracting fish in low-visibility conditions, solidifying its place as a go-to lure. It’s a great bait in murky waters.

Breaking Down the Features of Vudu Rattler Shrimp

Specifications

The Vudu Rattler Shrimp measures 3.5 inches in length. It is a soft bait designed to imitate a shrimp, and each pack contains one lure. The key features are the kangaroo-like belly pocket for scent and the internal, removable rattle.

These specifications are crucial because the size and shape are realistic, mimicking a natural food source. The scent pocket allows anglers to enhance the lure’s attractiveness, while the rattle provides an auditory stimulus, making it easier for fish to locate the bait, especially in murky water. The rattle, being removable, adds versatility.

Performance & Functionality

The Vudu Rattler Shrimp excels at attracting fish, particularly in conditions where visibility is limited. The combination of the realistic profile, the added scent, and the rattling sound creates a sensory overload that entices strikes. It has proven to be very productive.

The primary strength of this lure is its ability to draw fish from a distance, thanks to the rattle. A potential weakness is the durability of the soft plastic, which can be prone to tearing after repeated use. The rattle can also be too much in very clear water.

The Vudu Rattler Shrimp largely meets expectations, providing a reliable and effective way to target fish in challenging conditions. It’s a fantastic bait in off-colored water.

Design & Ergonomics

The Vudu Rattler Shrimp boasts a lifelike design, with realistic segmented body and appendages that mimic the natural movement of a shrimp. The soft plastic material is pliable and has a realistic feel to it. It looks great in the water.

The lure is relatively user-friendly, requiring no special rigging or techniques. The belly pocket is easily accessible for adding scent. There is a slight learning curve in determining the best retrieval method for your fishing area.

Durability & Maintenance

While the soft plastic is not as durable as some other options on the market, the Vudu Rattler Shrimp holds up reasonably well with proper care. With simple maintenance and storage, the Vudu Rattler Shrimp can last for several fishing trips.

Rinsing with freshwater after each use and avoiding prolonged exposure to direct sunlight will help to extend the life of the lure. A small amount of super glue can also be used to repair minor tears and prevent further damage. A drop after each trip will help.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Vudu Rattler Shrimp doesn’t come with any additional accessories besides the lure itself. However, it can be easily customized with various jig heads, hooks, and scent attractants. There are many jig head options available.

The belly pocket is specifically designed for adding scent, and I’ve found that using a shrimp-flavored gel attractant significantly increases its effectiveness. The Vudu Rattler Shrimp is also compatible with most standard jig heads and hook sizes, allowing for a wide range of rigging options. You can even use it weedless!

Pros and Cons of Vudu Rattler Shrimp

Who Should Buy Vudu Rattler Shrimp?

The Vudu Rattler Shrimp is perfect for inshore saltwater anglers targeting species like redfish, speckled trout, and flounder. It’s also a great choice for fishing in murky water or areas with heavy boat traffic, where the rattle can help fish locate the lure. A perfect bait for brackish water anglers.

This product might not be the best choice for anglers fishing in extremely clear water or those seeking a highly durable, long-lasting lure. Some must-have accessories or modifications include a selection of jig heads in various weights and colors, as well as a shrimp-flavored gel attractant. You may need to vary jig head size.

Conclusion on Vudu Rattler Shrimp

Overall, the Vudu Rattler Shrimp is a well-designed and effective soft bait that offers a unique combination of sight, sound, and scent to attract fish. While the durability could be improved, the benefits of the rattle and scent pocket far outweigh this drawback. It’s a great lure overall.

At a price of $10.49, the Vudu Rattler Shrimp offers a reasonable value proposition, especially considering its ability to produce strikes in challenging conditions. It’s a must-have for any inshore angler looking to increase their success rate. I’d recommend this lure to anyone looking to boost their success in murky or noisy water.

I would personally recommend the Vudu Rattler Shrimp to fellow anglers. Its ability to entice strikes when other lures fail makes it a valuable addition to any tackle box. Add it to your cart today!