Yakima Bait Flatfish Wiggling Plug, #U-20, Treble Hook Review

First Impressions of Yakima Bait Flatfish Wiggling Plug, #U-20, Treble Hook

The Yakima Bait Flatfish Wiggling Plug, #U-20, Treble Hook is a classic lure that has been tempting fish for decades. Its simple, yet effective design, promises a unique wiggle that predatory fish find irresistible. I was drawn to the Flatfish because I needed a reliable lure for trolling in murky water where visibility is limited. Could this time-tested lure still hold its own against more modern designs?

I’ve always been a fan of classic tackle. There’s something comforting about using gear that has proven itself over time. The Yakima Bait Flatfish has a reputation for catching everything from trout and salmon to walleye and bass. I chose this particular model, the #U-20, because its size seemed versatile enough for a variety of fishing conditions and target species.

Upon receiving the Flatfish, my initial impression was that it was surprisingly lightweight. The plastic body felt durable enough for moderate use. The included treble hooks appeared sharp and ready to hook into a unsuspecting fish. Compared to flashy, modern crankbaits with intricate paint jobs, the Flatfish is decidedly simple. I’ve used similar plugs from brands like Worden’s, but the Yakima Bait version seemed to have a slightly more pronounced wiggle right out of the box.

Honestly, I was cautiously optimistic. The lure’s design is so straightforward that I wondered if it could truly compete with more technologically advanced lures. However, I was also intrigued by its reputation and eager to see if it could live up to the hype. My gut feeling was that this lure had the potential to be a valuable addition to my tackle box, especially for situations where a subtle presentation is key.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Yakima Bait Flatfish Wiggling Plug, #U-20, Treble Hook to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Yakima Bait Flatfish Wiggling Plug, #U-20, Treble Hook on a recent walleye fishing trip to a reservoir known for its stained water and submerged timber. I trolled the Flatfish behind my boat at a slow speed, targeting depths of around 10-15 feet. The lure’s action was immediately apparent, even at low speeds, displaying a distinctive wobble that vibrated through the line.

The conditions were overcast with a slight chop on the water. Visibility was poor due to the stained water, which is exactly why I wanted to test the Flatfish‘s ability to attract fish through vibration and sound. It proved easy to use, requiring no special techniques. I simply tied it to my line and let it do its thing. I had two hits in the first hour, landing one decent-sized walleye.

The only issue I encountered was the treble hook occasionally snagging on submerged vegetation. This required stopping the boat and carefully freeing the lure. However, this is a common issue with treble-hook lures in areas with heavy cover. Overall, I was pleasantly surprised by the Flatfish‘s performance during its first outing.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the Yakima Bait Flatfish Wiggling Plug, #U-20, Treble Hook has proven to be a reliable and effective lure. The plastic body shows minimal signs of wear, despite being banged against rocks and timber. The treble hooks have remained sharp and haven’t shown any signs of corrosion. I’ve caught several more walleye and even a few surprise northern pike on it.

Maintaining the Flatfish is incredibly simple. After each use, I rinse it with fresh water and allow it to air dry. I occasionally check the treble hooks for sharpness and replace them if needed. Compared to some of my other lures that require more specialized cleaning and care, the Flatfish is refreshingly low-maintenance. In my experience, the Flatfish performs consistently well, especially when trolled at slow speeds in murky water.

Compared to my experiences with other similar plugs, the Yakima Bait Flatfish stands out due to its consistent action and durability. Some cheaper plugs tend to lose their wiggle after a few uses or break easily upon impact with rocks. However, the Flatfish has held up remarkably well. It has exceeded my expectations and has become a go-to lure for targeting walleye in challenging conditions.

Breaking Down the Features of Yakima Bait Flatfish Wiggling Plug, #U-20, Treble Hook

Specifications

The Yakima Bait Flatfish Wiggling Plug, #U-20, Treble Hook is a classic trolling lure designed to imitate a wounded baitfish. It features a molded plastic body with a distinctive curved shape that creates a wide, enticing wiggle. The lure is equipped with two sharp treble hooks for optimal hook-up rates.

The #U-20 model is a versatile size, measuring approximately 2.5 inches in length and weighing around 1/4 ounce. This size is suitable for targeting a variety of species, including trout, salmon, walleye, and bass. The Manufacturer, Yakima Bait, doesn’t explicitly list specific depth ratings, but the lure generally runs in the 5-15 foot range when trolled. The plastic construction allows for a durable yet lightweight design.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the lure’s performance. The size and weight determine the lure’s running depth and its suitability for different target species. The treble hooks ensure that fish are quickly and securely hooked. The plastic body provides durability and allows for the lure’s signature wiggle.

Performance & Functionality

The Yakima Bait Flatfish Wiggling Plug, #U-20, Treble Hook excels at attracting fish through its unique action and vibration. When trolled, the lure creates a wide, side-to-side wobble that mimics the movement of a distressed baitfish. This action is particularly effective in murky water where visibility is limited. Its greatest strength is its simplicity and reliability.

The lure’s action is consistent and predictable, making it easy to control and present effectively. One area for potential improvement is the hooks, which can sometimes snag on weeds or debris. However, this is a common issue with treble-hook lures and can be mitigated by using weedless hooks or trolling in areas with less cover. Overall, the Flatfish meets my expectations for a classic trolling lure.

Design & Ergonomics

The Yakima Bait Flatfish Wiggling Plug, #U-20, Treble Hook features a simple, yet effective design. The curved plastic body is lightweight and easy to handle. The lure’s streamlined shape allows it to track straight and true in the water.

The Flatfish is user-friendly, requiring no special skills or techniques to use effectively. Simply tie it to your line and troll it behind your boat. There is virtually no learning curve associated with this lure. The lure is lightweight enough to cast, however it is truly designed for trolling.

Durability & Maintenance

The Yakima Bait Flatfish Wiggling Plug, #U-20, Treble Hook is constructed from durable plastic that can withstand the rigors of fishing. With proper care, the lure should last for many seasons. It is relatively easy to maintain.

Rinse it with fresh water after each use and store it in a dry place. Replace the treble hooks as needed. The plastic body is resistant to cracking and fading. I have not needed to repair any of my Flatfish lures.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Yakima Bait Flatfish Wiggling Plug, #U-20, Treble Hook doesn’t come with any additional accessories. However, there are several ways to customize the lure to suit your specific fishing needs. One popular modification is to replace the stock treble hooks with higher-quality or weedless hooks.

Another customization option is to add weight to the lure to increase its running depth. This can be done by attaching split shot weights to the line ahead of the lure. You could also experiment with different color patterns by repainting the lure or adding colored tape. The Flatfish is compatible with most standard fishing line and tackle.

Pros and Cons of Yakima Bait Flatfish Wiggling Plug, #U-20, Treble Hook

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Who Should Buy Yakima Bait Flatfish Wiggling Plug, #U-20, Treble Hook?

The Yakima Bait Flatfish Wiggling Plug, #U-20, Treble Hook is perfect for anglers who enjoy trolling for trout, salmon, walleye, or bass. It is also a great choice for beginners who are looking for a simple and effective lure to get started with. The Flatfish is particularly well-suited for fishing in murky water or areas with limited visibility, where its wide wiggle and vibration can help attract fish.

Anglers who prefer to use highly specialized or technologically advanced lures might want to skip this product. Those who primarily fish in areas with heavy vegetation may find the treble hooks to be problematic. Must-have accessories include a quality pair of pliers for removing hooks and a tackle box for storing the lure. Consider purchasing extra treble hooks for replacement if they become damaged.

Conclusion on Yakima Bait Flatfish Wiggling Plug, #U-20, Treble Hook

The Yakima Bait Flatfish Wiggling Plug, #U-20, Treble Hook is a classic lure that has stood the test of time for good reason. It is simple, effective, and durable, making it a valuable addition to any angler’s tackle box. At a price of $5.71, the value is undeniable, especially when considering its longevity.

I would absolutely recommend the Yakima Bait Flatfish Wiggling Plug, #U-20, Treble Hook to anyone looking for a reliable trolling lure. It might not be the flashiest or most technologically advanced lure on the market, but it gets the job done. Give it a try and experience the proven fish-catching power of the Flatfish for yourself. You won’t be disappointed!