The Strike King Red Eyed Shad Tungsten 2 Tap Review No One Else Gives You
The Strike King Red Eyed Shad Tungsten 2 Tap is a specialized lipless crankbait designed to offer a distinct sonic signature on the water, aiming to entice hesitant fish with its unique sound profile. Manufactured by Strike King, this lure promises the acclaimed action of its predecessor, enhanced by a tungsten sound chamber for a double-tap cadence. My search for a more versatile and sonically appealing lure led me to this particular model, as my existing tackle box lacked a lure with this specific acoustic characteristic.
The initial impression upon unboxing the lure was positive, with a solid feel and visually appealing paint schemes. Compared to some generic, budget-friendly lipless crankbaits I’ve used in the past, the build quality here seemed noticeably higher. My first reaction was one of quiet optimism, a feeling that this might just be the edge I needed in challenging fishing conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Strike King Red Eyed Shad Tungsten 2 Tap to the Test
First Use Experience
I first took the Strike King Red Eyed Shad Tungsten 2 Tap out on a moderately clear lake known for its finicky bass population, particularly during a period of post-frontal conditions. Testing involved casting and retrieving with a steady retrieve, as well as employing an erratic lift-and-drop technique as suggested. The lure exhibited impressive action even on a slow retrieve, oscillating with a tight wobble that felt natural.
The unique double-tap sound was indeed noticeable, especially when worked with the lift-and-drop method, creating a distinct “tap-tap” rhythm that seemed to grab the attention of nearby fish. I experienced no immediate issues with the lure’s balance or tracking, and it handled slight chop on the water without rolling or becoming unstable. One minor surprise was how quickly it sank when paused, indicating its dense construction.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use across different water bodies and under varying fishing pressures, the Red Eyed Shad Tungsten 2 Tap has held up remarkably well. The paint, while subjected to numerous strikes and contact with cover, shows only minor chipping around the hook hangers, which is typical for any hard bait. The internal rattles, including the special tungsten sound chamber, remain as loud and distinct as they were on day one, with no signs of degradation.
Maintenance is straightforward; a quick rinse with freshwater after each outing and a gentle wipe-down are sufficient to keep it in prime condition. I haven’t found any specialized cleaning needs. When compared to other lipless crankbaits, its durability is on par with other premium offerings and significantly better than cheaper, mass-produced alternatives that often lose their finish or rattles quickly.
Breaking Down the Features of Strike King Red Eyed Shad Tungsten 2 Tap
Specifications
The Strike King Red Eyed Shad Tungsten 2 Tap measures 3.25 inches in length and weighs in at 1/2 oz, making it a substantial bait suitable for targeting a variety of predatory fish. Its Sinking diving depth means it can be easily presented at various levels of the water column. The lure features a unique Tungsten Sound Chamber designed to produce a distinctive double-tapping sound, setting it apart from lures with standard rattle systems.
These specifications are crucial for its effectiveness. The 1/2 oz weight provides excellent casting distance, allowing anglers to cover more water, while its sinking nature allows for precise depth control. The 3.25-inch size is a versatile profile that appeals to a wide range of bass and other gamefish. The Tungsten Rattles are the star feature, creating a unique sound that can cut through background noise and trigger strikes when other lures fail.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Red Eyed Shad Tungsten 2 Tap is to attract fish with its action and sound, and it excels in this regard. Its programmed wobble is consistent, and the unique sound it emits is truly different from the single-rattle beat of most crankbaits. This double-tap cadence seems to elicit a more aggressive reaction from fish, particularly when they are less active.
Its main strength lies in its ability to be fished in multiple ways; a steady retrieve works, but the lift-and-drop technique truly unlocks its potential for triggering bites. A minor weakness might be its sinking speed for anglers who prefer a more subtle presentation, but this is easily managed with retrieve speed. It comfortably meets, and often exceeds, expectations for a premium lipless crankbait.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of this lure is clearly geared towards performance and durability. The pro-designed paint jobs are not just aesthetically pleasing but remarkably resilient, even after repeated encounters with submerged structure. The 3D Red Eyes add a touch of realism that predatory fish key in on.
Ergonomically, for a lure, it performs as expected; it casts well and retrieves smoothly. The premium size 3 VMC Vanadium Cone Cut Hooks are sharp and strong, providing excellent hook-up ratios. There’s no real learning curve, as its operation is intuitive for anyone familiar with lipless crankbaits.
Durability & Maintenance
This particular model is built for the rigors of competitive angling and sustained use, suggesting a high degree of durability. The tungsten rattles are securely housed and show no signs of loosening. The external finish is tough, resisting nicks and scratches better than many competitors, though direct impacts with hard surfaces can still cause minor wear.
It is designed to be a workhorse lure. Cleaning involves simply rinsing it off after use; no disassembly or special tools are required. Potential concerns are minimal, but like all hard baits, prolonged submersion in stagnant water could theoretically affect the rattles over extended periods, though this is unlikely in normal fishing scenarios.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Strike King Red Eyed Shad Tungsten 2 Tap comes pre-rigged with premium size 3 VMC Vanadium Cone Cut Hooks, which are excellent out of the box and generally do not require immediate replacement. Beyond this, there are no specific accessories included, as it is a ready-to-fish lure. Customization options are limited to changing hook sizes or types if desired, though the stock hooks are top-tier.
Pros and Cons of Strike King Red Eyed Shad Tungsten 2 Tap
Pros
- Unique Double-Tap Sound: The tungsten sound chamber creates a distinct auditory attraction that can trigger finicky fish.
- Excellent Action: Exhibits a tight, consistent wobble that is effective even on a slow retrieve.
- Premium Components: Features sharp, durable VMC Vanadium Cone Cut Hooks and realistic 3D Red Eyes.
- Durable Finish: Resilient paint schemes and build quality hold up well against strikes and minor impacts.
- Versatile Presentation: Sinks effectively and responds well to various retrieve techniques, especially the lift-and-drop.
Cons
- Sinking Speed: Its sinking nature might be too fast for anglers targeting extremely shallow water without careful retrieve management.
- Price Point: While justified by performance, it is more expensive than basic, non-tungsten lipless crankbaits.
Who Should Buy Strike King Red Eyed Shad Tungsten 2 Tap?
This lure is ideally suited for experienced bass anglers who understand the nuances of lure presentation and sound. It is particularly valuable for those fishing during tough conditions, such as post-frontal fronts or low-light situations where fish might be less aggressive and responsive to unique stimuli. Anglers who enjoy experimenting with different retrieve techniques, especially the lift-and-drop, will find this bait particularly rewarding.
Those who are new to lipless crankbaits or prefer a lure that floats or suspends might want to start with a different model, as the sinking characteristic requires a certain retrieve style. For the best experience, consider using it with quality baitcasting tackle and fluorocarbon fishing line, as suggested, to maximize casting distance and sensitivity.
Conclusion on Strike King Red Eyed Shad Tungsten 2 Tap
The Strike King Red Eyed Shad Tungsten 2 Tap is a finely tuned fishing lure that delivers on its promise of a unique sound and effective action. Its construction, from the durable finish to the premium hooks and innovative tungsten sound chamber, justifies its place among higher-end crankbaits. The $6.61 price point offers good value for the performance enhancement it provides, especially when facing challenging fishing scenarios.
I wholeheartedly recommend this lure to anglers looking to add a specialized tool to their arsenal that can make a difference when standard lures fail. It’s a proven performer on the pro tour for a reason, and its distinct sonic signature is a valuable asset for any serious angler.