Strike King Chick Magnet Flatside Crankbait Review

Is the Strike King Chick Magnet Flatside Crankbait All Talk?

For years, the classic flat-sided crankbait has been a staple in many anglers’ arsenals, often proving its worth when finesse and subtle action are key. When I heard that Strike King, a name synonymous with innovative bass fishing lures, was partnering with tournament pro Andy Morgan to revive and refine this design with the Strike King Chick Magnet Flatside Crankbait, my interest was piqued. The lure promised a tight wobble and lifelike action, perfect for those frustrating days when fish are finicky. My search for a reliable lure that could handle pressured waters and cooler temperatures led me directly to this model. Upon unboxing, the initial impression was one of thoughtful craftsmanship; the finish was sharp, and the overall build felt solid. I had briefly considered a couple of generic flat-sided options, but their build quality and lack of angler input made me hesitant. A sense of cautious optimism and anticipation for a productive outing washed over me.

Real-World Testing: Putting Strike King Chick Magnet Flatside Crankbait to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial outing with the Strike King Chick Magnet Flatside Crankbait took place on a moderately pressured local lake known for its clear water and selective bass population, specifically targeting largemouth and smallmouth. I tested it primarily in the 4 to 6-foot depth range, casting towards visible cover like laydowns and weed edges. The retrieve speed was varied, from a slow roll to a moderate crank, mimicking baitfish movement. The lure handled well on both my baitcasting setup with fluorocarbon line, deflecting off submerged wood and rocks effectively, which often triggers strikes. There were no immediate issues or surprises; the action was consistent, and the lure seemed to swim true right out of the package.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several weeks, I’ve incorporated this flatside crankbait into my regular fishing rotation, using it in various conditions, including post-frontal days and cooler water temperatures in the low 60s. It consistently proved its worth, eliciting bites when other lures failed to draw a reaction. The durability has been impressive; despite deflecting off numerous submerged obstacles and enduring the occasional bump from a jumping bass, the finish has held up remarkably well, with only minor scuffs visible. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick rinse under freshwater and a soft brush easily remove any debris, and it dries quickly. Compared to some less expensive alternatives, which often lose their paint or develop leaks after a few encounters with structure, this model has held up exceptionally well, demonstrating a clear step up in quality and longevity.

Breaking Down the Features of Strike King Chick Magnet Flatside Crankbait

Specifications

The Strike King Chick Magnet Flatside Crankbait boasts a 7/16 oz weight and a 7-inch length, providing a substantial yet manageable profile for a variety of bass species. Its design centers around a thin body construction, a hallmark of flat-sided crankbaits, which is crucial for generating its signature tight wobble. The lure features a circuit board lip, a modern touch that contributes to its responsiveness and durability, and is rated for a 4 to 6-foot diving depth. It comes equipped with sticky-sharp size 4 treble hooks, ensuring solid hooksets. The manufacturer, Strike King, has positioned this lure as a premium option, and the specifications reflect a commitment to performance and angler success, especially in challenging fishing scenarios.

Performance & Functionality

This flatside crankbait excels at its primary job: presenting a subtle yet enticing action that fools wary fish. The tight wobble is its standout characteristic, creating a lifelike vibration that bass can easily detect, even in stained water or during periods of low light. It performs exceptionally well when deflected off cover, simulating an injured baitfish and provoking aggressive strikes. In terms of meeting expectations, it exceeds them, particularly when fishing pressure is high or after adverse weather conditions have made other lures less effective. The lure’s ability to maintain its action at various retrieve speeds is also a significant strength, allowing for adaptability to different fish moods.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Strike King Chick Magnet Flatside Crankbait is a blend of classic principles and modern enhancements. Its thin body is not only functional for action but also contributes to a realistic profile that appeals to predator fish. The circuit board lip feels robust and precisely angled, ensuring consistent diving and minimal damage from impacts. The overall build quality is evident in the sharp paint schemes and the securely attached hooks. While there’s no complex ergonomic adjustment needed for a lure, its balance and swimming motion feel natural and easy to control with a standard baitcasting reel.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my testing, this crankbait is built for longevity in its intended environment. The external finish has shown remarkable resistance to chipping and scratching, even after repeated contact with rocks, logs, and pilings. The internal construction seems well-sealed, as I’ve experienced no water intrusion or ballast shifting, which can plague lesser lures and lead to them sinking or losing their action. Maintenance is minimal; a simple rinse after fishing and proper storage in a lure box are sufficient to keep it in top condition. For its category, it exhibits excellent durability, suggesting it’s designed for repeated encounters with structure and fish.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Strike King Chick Magnet Flatside Crankbait comes ready to fish right out of the package, featuring sticky-sharp size 4 treble hooks. There are no additional accessories included, as is standard for most crankbaits. However, the design allows for easy customization or replacement of the stock treble hooks should an angler prefer different sizes or brands for specific situations. This offers a degree of personalization without requiring complex modifications. The hook hangers and split rings are standard, making hook swaps a simple process for those who like to fine-tune their terminal tackle.

Pros and Cons of Strike King Chick Magnet Flatside Crankbait

Who Should Buy Strike King Chick Magnet Flatside Crankbait?

This lure is an excellent choice for bass anglers, both experienced and intermediate, who frequently encounter pressured waters or fish during cooler seasons. It’s particularly well-suited for those who appreciate a more subtle approach when standard presentations aren’t working. Anglers targeting largemouth and smallmouth bass in the 4-6 foot depth range will find this model highly effective. Those who demand reliability and durability in their lures, especially when fishing around structure, will appreciate its solid construction. I would advise anglers primarily targeting smaller species like crappie or smaller panfish to consider smaller crankbait options, as the 7-inch length of this model might be more than they need.

Conclusion on Strike King Chick Magnet Flatside Crankbait

The Strike King Chick Magnet Flatside Crankbait lives up to its promise, delivering a refined and effective flat-sided crankbait experience. Its tight wobble, durable construction, and ability to entice bites in challenging conditions make it a valuable addition to any serious bass angler’s tackle box. The $10.95 price point is justified by its performance, build quality, and the real-world advantage it offers when the bite gets tough. I confidently recommend this lure to anyone looking to add a high-performing, versatile crankbait that excels when subtlety is key. If you’ve ever faced a day where the fish seem to be ignoring everything you throw, this model is a strong contender to turn that day around.