First Impressions of Williamson Kensaki Jig 170, Sinking, VMC Double Assist HK
The Williamson Kensaki Jig 170, Sinking, VMC Double Assist HK is a name that speaks to serious anglers looking to tackle deep water and entice aggressive strikes. This jig, manufactured by Williamson, promises a fast sink rate, enticing flutter action, and reliable hooksets thanks to its VMC double assist hooks. Having spent years chasing trophy fish, I was intrigued by its asymmetrical design and the promise of superior performance in challenging conditions.
I’ve often found myself frustrated with jigs that don’t get down quickly enough, especially when fishing offshore currents. The Kensaki Jig’s knife-tip design was appealing, suggesting it could slice through the water column more efficiently than other jigs in my tackle box. My go-to jigs have been the Shimano Butterfly jigs and the Daiwa Zakana jigs, but I was looking for something with a different action and profile to present to finicky fish.
The unboxing experience was straightforward, the jig securely packaged and showcasing its quality finish. Picking it up, I immediately noticed the solid feel and the sharpness of the VMC assist hooks; this wasn’t a cheaply made lure. The paint job was vibrant and seemed durable, a key factor considering the harsh environment of saltwater fishing.
Compared to my existing jigs, the Williamson Kensaki Jig 170 had a slimmer profile and a more pronounced asymmetrical design. This immediately suggested a different action in the water, perhaps more erratic and attention-grabbing than the more traditional shapes. While the Shimano jigs are known for their smooth, predictable action, I hoped the Kensaki would offer a more aggressive presentation.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The Kensaki Jig’s design promised a lot, but the real test would be in the water. I was eager to see if it could live up to the hype and become a staple in my offshore arsenal.
Real-World Testing: Putting Williamson Kensaki Jig 170, Sinking, VMC Double Assist HK to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Williamson Kensaki Jig 170 off the coast of Southern California, targeting yellowtail and rockfish in about 200 feet of water. The conditions were moderate, with a slight chop and a manageable current, offering a good initial assessment. I employed the recommended ‘lift & fall’ slow-pitch technique, focusing on creating an erratic, darting action.
The jig performed admirably, sinking quickly and maintaining its stability even in the mild current. It was easy to impart the desired action, the asymmetrical design clearly contributing to the tight horizontal flutter on the fall. After about an hour, I hooked into a nice yellowtail, the VMC assist hooks doing their job perfectly, resulting in a solid hookset.
The only minor issue was the initial learning curve in mastering the slow-pitch technique. It required a bit more finesse than simply dropping and retrieving, but the results were worth the effort. No other issues occurred during the first use of the jig.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Williamson Kensaki Jig 170 has become a trusted member of my tackle collection. It has proven effective in a variety of conditions, from calm, clear waters to rougher seas and stronger currents. The jig consistently gets down to the strike zone quickly and presents an enticing action.
Durability has been impressive, with the paint holding up remarkably well despite repeated encounters with rocks and toothy fish. The VMC assist hooks remain sharp and strong, showing no signs of rust or bending. Cleaning is simple, a quick rinse with freshwater after each use is sufficient to maintain its condition.
Compared to other jigs I’ve used, the Kensaki Jig offers a unique combination of fast sinking speed, erratic action, and robust construction. It has consistently outperformed my expectations, proving its worth as a versatile and reliable tool for deep-water jigging. I plan to purchase more of these jigs in different colors and sizes.
Breaking Down the Features of Williamson Kensaki Jig 170, Sinking, VMC Double Assist HK
Specifications
The Williamson Kensaki Jig 170 boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance. It weighs in at 6 oz, providing ample weight for rapid descent to the desired fishing depth. The jig measures 6 inches in length, presenting a substantial profile to attract larger predatory fish.
As a sinking jig, its primary purpose is to target fish in deep water or areas with strong currents. The lure type is categorized as both “Cast and Retrieve” and “Jig,” highlighting its versatility for various fishing techniques. Its key features include an asymmetrical knife-tip design, multi-species applicability, a flutter-on-the-fall action, super sharp VMC assist hooks, and glow & UV bright finishes. These specifications work in concert to create a highly effective and adaptable lure.
Performance & Functionality
The Williamson Kensaki Jig 170 excels in its intended role as a deep-water jig. Its fast sink rate ensures it reaches the strike zone quickly, maximizing fishing time. The erratic flutter action, combined with the glow and UV bright finishes, effectively entices strikes from a variety of species.
Its strengths lie in its ability to perform well in challenging conditions and its consistent hook-up ratio thanks to the VMC assist hooks. One potential weakness is the need to master the slow-pitch technique to fully unlock its potential. Overall, it meets and even exceeds expectations, proving to be a highly effective jig for targeting deep-water predators.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Williamson Kensaki Jig 170 is excellent, featuring durable materials and a robust construction. Its weight feels well-balanced, contributing to its stable descent and ease of use. The paint job is vibrant and chip-resistant, ensuring long-lasting visual appeal.
The jig is relatively user-friendly, although some practice is required to master the slow-pitch technique. Its streamlined design and strategically placed eyelets contribute to its smooth action and reduced resistance in the water. The jig itself can be easily fished by anglers of all experience levels.
Durability & Maintenance
The Williamson Kensaki Jig 170 is built to withstand the rigors of saltwater fishing, its durable construction ensuring a long lifespan. The paint finish resists chipping and fading, even after repeated encounters with rocks and fish. The VMC assist hooks are corrosion-resistant and maintain their sharpness over time.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only a quick rinse with freshwater after each use. The jig’s robust construction and quality components ensure it can withstand years of use with proper care. Minimal maintenance is required with this lure.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Williamson Kensaki Jig 170 comes pre-rigged with VMC double assist hooks, eliminating the need for additional rigging. While there are no specific customization options offered by Williamson, anglers can experiment with different assist hook sizes and colors to tailor the jig to specific conditions and target species. Swapping out the assist hooks would be the main customization option.
The jig is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket assist hooks, allowing anglers to personalize their setup. Its versatility and adaptability make it a valuable addition to any angler’s tackle collection. The end user could add a swivel to the jig’s eyelet, although this is not necessary.
Pros and Cons of Williamson Kensaki Jig 170, Sinking, VMC Double Assist HK
Pros
- Fast Sinking Speed: Reaches the strike zone quickly, maximizing fishing time.
- Erratic Flutter Action: Entices strikes from a variety of species with its unique movement.
- Durable Construction: Withstands the rigors of saltwater fishing for long-lasting performance.
- Sharp VMC Assist Hooks: Ensures solid hooksets and reduces the chance of lost fish.
- Versatile Application: Effective for targeting a variety of fish species in various conditions.
Cons
- Requires mastering the slow-pitch technique to fully utilize its potential.
- The initial price point may be higher than some other jigs on the market.
Who Should Buy Williamson Kensaki Jig 170, Sinking, VMC Double Assist HK?
Perfect for: Pro anglers targeting deep-water species such as tuna, grouper, and amberjack. Also suited for anglers seeking a durable and effective jig for use in strong currents. It is great for those looking for an aggressive lure for enticing strikes.
Who should skip this product? Anglers primarily fishing in shallow water or those who prefer simpler, less-technical jigging techniques might find this jig less appealing. Those who want a cheaper alternative may also wish to consider other jigs.
Must-have accessories or modifications? While the jig is effective right out of the package, anglers might consider experimenting with different assist hook sizes and colors to tailor it to specific conditions. Adding a quality swivel to the leader connection can also help prevent line twist.
Conclusion on Williamson Kensaki Jig 170, Sinking, VMC Double Assist HK
The Williamson Kensaki Jig 170, Sinking, VMC Double Assist HK is a high-performance lure designed for serious anglers targeting deep-water predators. Its fast sink rate, erratic action, and durable construction make it a valuable asset in challenging fishing conditions. While it requires some skill to master the slow-pitch technique, the rewards are well worth the effort.
The price is justified by the jig’s quality, performance, and longevity. It is a worthwhile investment for anglers seeking a reliable and effective tool for targeting trophy fish. I would wholeheartedly recommend the Williamson Kensaki Jig 170 to any angler looking to elevate their deep-water jigging game.
Don’t just take my word for it; grab a Williamson Kensaki Jig 170 and experience the difference for yourself. Get ready to feel the bite and land the fish of a lifetime!