There are three reasons the ima Flit got the nod for this weeks Lure Shelf blog: 1) I’m planning on tossing one around Kentucky Lake all day tomorrow 2) It’s action should be outlawed for unfairness towards bass and 3) I’m in a jerkbait kind of mood. See the first reason for an explanation of why.
Jerkbaits and twitch baits have always been some of my favorites. For most of my childhood I walked around with the notion that my dad didn’t own any other lures than an Original Rapala Floater – it’s literally all he threw. So, being that he was the one who taught me, it’s what I threw a lot as well. However, since those early years both he and I have grown past the Rapala phase and into other, more specified jerkbaits. First it was AC Shiners. Then Rapala X-Raps. And my dad is currently hooked on Yo-Zuri Pins Minnows (you’d be amazed how many 4+-pound bass he’s caught on those tiny things). Me, I’m smitten with the Flit.
Having only recently been introduced to the Flit via its creator, National Guard pro Michael Murphy, I’ve yet to rack up the big fish on it as I have the Rapala or other jerkbaits. But trust me, the big girls are coming (hopefully tomorrow).
What makes the Flit so special isn’t just the action, it’s the design. While other jerkbaits rely on the lip to give them action, the Flit’s action comes from the body, allowing it to dart differently than most jerkbaits. It also allows the lure to have a special action that we talk about in an upcoming issue of the magazine. For anglers frustrated by following bass, it’s an article you’re going to want to read.
Because the lure suspends, very shallow weeds probably aren’t the best place for it. But in the spring and fall, when slower presentations get the call, the Flit is an awesome choice. The other great thing about it is the rattles. Murphy has a Fisheries Degree from Purdue University and spent a lot of time studying baitfish. And through those studies he noticed baitfish actually make a soft clicking sound in the water. Well, Murphy has replicated that in the Flit for added realism.
Well I’m off to start a new jerkbait trend in my family. Let’s hope I’ll be posting pictures on Monday.
Slam the hooks!