Custom Jigs Rat Finkee Review

Why the Custom Jigs Rat Finkee Might Be Right for You

For anglers seeking a versatile and effective lure, the Custom Jigs Rat Finkee presents a compelling option. Custom Jigs, a reputable manufacturer in the fishing tackle space, has engineered this lure with a unique horizontal presentation designed to appeal to a wide range of fish species. I first stumbled upon this lure while searching for a more universally effective bait that could consistently perform across different water conditions and target species, rather than relying on specialized lures that only work in certain situations. My initial impression was of a well-constructed, deceptively simple design. While I briefly considered other jig heads with weed guards or larger profiles, the promise of a balanced, lead-head design with a plastic body molded over a gold hook piqued my interest. My first reaction was a sense of practical optimism; it felt like a tool built for purpose.

Real-World Testing: Putting Custom Jigs Rat Finkee to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of the Custom Jigs Rat Finkee took place on a local lake known for its diverse population of bass, perch, and crappie. I primarily employed it in deeper structures and along weed lines, where its horizontal profile could mimic natural baitfish movement. The lure excelled in demonstrating its versatility, and I found it particularly effective when jigging slowly near the bottom or employing a subtle retrieve.

The conditions varied from calm mornings to windier afternoons, and the lure maintained its balance and action throughout. Exposure to light moisture from rain showers didn’t seem to affect its performance. I was pleasantly surprised by how intuitive the lure was to use; its natural balance meant it wasn’t prone to tumbling or rolling, which is a common issue with less refined jig designs.

One minor quirk I noticed was that the plastic body, while durable, could sometimes get slightly compressed if aggressively handled or stored tightly. This was easily remedied by a quick stretch or allowing it to sit loosely for a short while.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use across multiple fishing trips, the Custom Jigs Rat Finkee has proven to be a reliable performer. It has become a go-to in my tackle box for targeting panfish and smaller bass. The durability has been impressive, with no signs of cracks or significant wear on the plastic body, even after encountering submerged structure and the occasional toothy encounter from a small pike.

Maintenance is straightforward: a simple rinse under freshwater after each use and air-drying before storage keeps it in good condition. I haven’t noticed any degradation in its action or hook-up ratio over time.

Compared to some of the cheaper, generic jig heads I’ve used in the past, this model offers superior balance and hook sharpness. While not a premium, ultra-high-end lure, it certainly outperforms budget options and holds its own against mid-range competitors in its specific niche.

Breaking Down the Features of Custom Jigs Rat Finkee

Specifications

The Custom Jigs Rat Finkee boasts a fine balanced lead head and a plastic body molded over a gold hook. The manufacturer, Custom Jigs, specifies a quantity of 1 per package, with the item being in New condition. This simple yet effective construction is the core of its appeal.

The balanced lead head is crucial for maintaining the lure’s horizontal presentation. This ensures it behaves naturally in the water, mimicking the swimming or struggling motion of prey. The plastic body is designed to be durable and holds its shape through repeated strikes.

The integrated gold hook is a significant advantage. Gold hooks often offer increased visibility in certain water conditions and are known for their strength and sharpness, leading to better hooksets. This all-in-one design means fewer components to worry about and a more streamlined approach to rigging.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of the Custom Jigs Rat Finkee is to attract and catch fish, and it does this remarkably well. Its defining characteristic is the horizontal presentation, which is a game-changer for many species that prefer to strike prey from the side or below. This design makes it incredibly effective for bass, crappie, perch, and even walleye when presented correctly.

The lure’s strength lies in its versatility; it performs excellently with a variety of retrieves, from slow, subtle twitches to more aggressive hops. The balanced design ensures it doesn’t snag excessively on the bottom or weed edges, allowing for more time in the strike zone.

A minor area for potential improvement could be in the variety of soft plastic colors offered. While the standard colors are effective, a wider palette could cater to even more nuanced fishing conditions and angler preferences.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Custom Jigs Rat Finkee is robust, especially considering its affordable price point. The lead head feels solid and well-cast, with no rough edges. The plastic body is securely molded over the hook shank, providing a clean and integrated look.

Ergonomically, the lure is designed for simplicity and effectiveness. There are no complex controls or grips to worry about; its design is inherently user-friendly. The lure’s horizontal orientation means it sits naturally in the water, requiring minimal angler adjustment to achieve the desired action.

The integrated hook design also means no fiddling with separate jig heads and hooks, which can be a significant convenience when rigging up quickly. The gold hook is a nice touch, offering good visibility.

Durability & Maintenance

The Custom Jigs Rat Finkee is built for durability in its intended fishing environment. I anticipate it lasting through numerous fishing sessions for its category, especially when considering its reusability. The lead head is resistant to chipping, and the plastic body has shown no signs of becoming brittle or cracking.

Maintenance is as simple as it gets. A quick rinse in freshwater to remove any slime or debris after a fishing trip, followed by air-drying, is all that’s needed to keep it in prime condition. There are no special parts to lubricate or specific cleaning agents required.

The main potential failure point would be the hook itself if subjected to extreme stress or corrosion from prolonged neglect, but this is common to most fishing lures. The gold finish on the hook is also reasonably durable, though prolonged abrasion could eventually wear it down.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Custom Jigs Rat Finkee is a self-contained lure; it doesn’t typically come with additional accessories. Its primary customization lies in the addition of a soft plastic bait to the hook. Anglers can choose from a vast array of soft plastics – grubs, craws, paddle tails – to further tailor the lure’s action and appearance.

The lure is designed to accommodate a wide range of standard-sized soft plastics, allowing for significant experimentation. This adaptability is one of its greatest strengths, enabling anglers to match hatch or mimic specific forage. Compatibility with common soft plastic trailers is excellent, making it a versatile platform for anglers who like to personalize their offerings.

Pros and Cons of Custom Jigs Rat Finkee

Who Should Buy Custom Jigs Rat Finkee?

This lure is an excellent choice for anglers who frequently target species like bass, crappie, and perch in lakes, rivers, and ponds. It’s particularly well-suited for those who appreciate a lure that can be adapted with various soft plastic trailers to match local forage. Home anglers and weekend warriors looking for a reliable, all-around jig will find it very useful.

Those who should consider skipping this lure are anglers primarily focused on deep-sea fishing, saltwater species requiring specialized corrosion-resistant hooks, or those who demand an integrated, ready-to-fish bait with no need for additional components. If you exclusively fish for species that prefer vertical presentations or require ultra-compact lures, this might not be your first choice.

For those who do purchase, I highly recommend experimenting with different soft plastic trailers. Grubs, small paddle tails, and even finesse worms can dramatically change the lure’s action and appeal. Having a variety of these on hand will maximize the Custom Jigs Rat Finkee‘s effectiveness.

Conclusion on Custom Jigs Rat Finkee

The Custom Jigs Rat Finkee is a testament to how simple, well-executed design can lead to exceptional fishing performance. Its horizontal presentation, combined with a balanced lead head and integrated gold hook, makes it a highly effective and versatile lure for a broad range of freshwater game fish. The durability and ease of use further solidify its position as a valuable addition to any angler’s tackle box.

For its price, the value proposition is outstanding. You’re getting a lure that consistently performs well, is built to last, and offers a fantastic platform for customization with your favorite soft plastics. I would confidently recommend the Custom Jigs Rat Finkee to any angler looking for a dependable and adaptable jig that consistently puts fish in the boat without breaking the bank. It’s a no-nonsense lure that simply gets the job done.