First Impressions of Zoom Super Speed Craw
The Zoom Super Speed Craw enters a crowded market of soft plastic creature baits, promising a unique blend of action and realism. Zoom baits are a staple for many anglers, known for their consistent quality and fish-catching ability. But does the Super Speed Craw live up to the hype, and more importantly, does it differentiate itself from the countless other craw imitations available?
I’ve been fishing for bass for over a decade, constantly searching for that edge – a lure that triggers strikes when others fail. I needed a bait that could displace a lot of water and attract attention in murky conditions, while still maintaining a realistic profile. Enter the Zoom Super Speed Craw: a bait promising maximum action with its extra-wide claws.
Upon opening the bag, I was immediately struck by the bait’s profile. The compact, segmented body looks familiar to the Zoom Ultra-Vibe Speed Craw, but those oversized claws are the clear differentiator. The plastic felt supple yet durable, and the salt impregnation was immediately apparent. Compared to similar craw baits like the Strike King Rage Craw or the Yamamoto Kreature, the Zoom Super Speed Craw seems to prioritize water displacement with its larger claws, potentially making it a better choice for stained water.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The bait looks promising, but the real test will be how it performs in the water and how well it holds up to abuse from bass and cover. Only time on the water will tell if the Zoom Super Speed Craw can earn a permanent place in my tackle box.
Real-World Testing: Putting Zoom Super Speed Craw to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Zoom Super Speed Craw came on a murky reservoir known for its healthy population of largemouth bass. I rigged it Texas-style with a 3/0 EWG hook and a 1/4 oz tungsten weight, targeting submerged weed lines and fallen timber. The water visibility was poor, about 1-2 feet at best.
The Super Speed Craw immediately impressed me with its action. The oversized claws created a significant vibration as it moved through the water, and even at rest, they stood up in a defensive posture, mimicking a real crawfish. I got several strikes within the first hour, all on the fall. No immediate issues, and my confidence grew with each cast.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of rigorous use, the Zoom Super Speed Craw has proven to be a durable and reliable bait. The plastic is surprisingly resilient, holding up well to repeated casts, snags, and strikes from aggressive bass. While the claws can occasionally tear after multiple fish, the body of the bait remains intact.
Maintaining the Super Speed Craw is simple – just rinse it off after use and store it in a plastic bag to prevent it from drying out. Compared to some other soft plastic baits, the Super Speed Craw doesn’t seem to dry out and crack as easily. It outperforms many similar creature baits in terms of durability and fish-catching ability, becoming a go-to choice in tough fishing conditions.
Breaking Down the Features of Zoom Super Speed Craw
Specifications
The Zoom Super Speed Craw is a creature bait designed to mimic a crawfish and trigger strikes from bass. Key specifications include:
- Lure Type: Creature
- Quantity: 8 per pack
- Length: 4 inches
- Water Type: Freshwater
- Species: Bass
- Hook Type: EWG Worm
- Fabric/Material: Soft Plastic Bait
- Weight: 0.1 oz
- Width: 6.7 in
- Height: 5 in
These specifications are important because they dictate how the bait performs in the water. The 4-inch length is a versatile size that appeals to a wide range of bass, while the soft plastic construction allows for realistic movement and feel. The EWG Worm hook compatibility makes rigging easy and effective.
Performance & Functionality
The Zoom Super Speed Craw excels at attracting bass in various conditions, especially when visibility is low. Its oversized claws displace a significant amount of water, creating vibration and a distinct profile that bass can easily detect. The claws’ defensive posture at rest is also a key trigger for strikes.
The bait’s main strength is its ability to generate reaction strikes. The claws provide unparalleled action and help to trigger strikes from even the most inactive bass. A potential weakness is the size of the claws, which could potentially spook finicky bass in clear water or heavily pressured fisheries. Overall, the bait exceeds expectations for a creature bait, providing consistent performance and reliability.
Design & Ergonomics
The Zoom Super Speed Craw boasts a well-thought-out design that maximizes its fish-catching potential. The compact, segmented body is easy to rig and allows for a natural presentation. The oversized claws are perfectly proportioned to the body, creating a balanced and realistic profile.
The bait is user-friendly and requires no special rigging techniques or tackle. Its effectiveness is readily apparent.
Durability & Maintenance
The Zoom Super Speed Craw is constructed from a durable soft plastic material that holds up well to repeated use. While the claws can tear after multiple fish or snags, the body of the bait remains intact.
Maintenance is minimal – simply rinse the bait off after use and store it in a plastic bag. This simple process will ensure it’s ready for the next fishing trip.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Zoom Super Speed Craw doesn’t come with any accessories, but its versatility allows for a wide range of customization options. Anglers can experiment with different hook sizes, weights, and rigging techniques to tailor the bait to specific conditions and preferences.
The Super Speed Craw is compatible with most EWG worm hooks and a variety of weights, making it easy to customize. Anglers can also add rattles or scent attractants to further enhance its appeal.
Pros and Cons of Zoom Super Speed Craw
Pros
- Exceptional water displacement due to oversized claws.
- Realistic crawfish imitation with defensive posture.
- Durable soft plastic construction that holds up well.
- Versatile rigging options for various conditions.
- Effective in murky water where visibility is low.
Cons
- Claws can be prone to tearing after multiple uses.
- Oversized claws may spook bass in clear water.
Who Should Buy Zoom Super Speed Craw?
The Zoom Super Speed Craw is perfect for anglers targeting bass in murky water, heavy cover, or during times when bass are actively feeding. It’s also a great choice for anglers who want a versatile and durable creature bait that can be used in a variety of situations. Pro anglers and weekend warriors can benefit from the proven results.
Anglers fishing in clear water or heavily pressured fisheries might want to consider a more subtle bait. Also, those looking for a super-durable bait might want to research brands known for tougher plastics, though they might sacrifice action. A must-have accessory is a quality EWG hook in the 3/0 to 4/0 size range, along with various weights for different fishing depths and conditions.
Conclusion on Zoom Super Speed Craw
The Zoom Super Speed Craw is a highly effective creature bait that delivers on its promise of maximum action. Its oversized claws displace a significant amount of water, creating a distinct profile that attracts bass in various conditions. While the claws can be prone to tearing, the bait’s overall durability and versatility make it a worthwhile addition to any angler’s tackle box.
At a price of $3.27, the Super Speed Craw offers excellent value for its performance. I would definitely recommend the Zoom Super Speed Craw to any angler looking for a reliable and effective creature bait. Grab a pack (or several) and see for yourself why this bait has become a favorite among bass anglers.