The Yo-Zuri 3D Inshore Pencil is a 4-inch, half-ounce topwater lure designed for close-quarters redfish fishing. Its unique selling point is a high-pitched, three-ball-bearing rattle that mimics small baitfish, attracting redfish from shorter distances. This distinct sound, unlike the lower frequency rattles of many competitors, provides a more targeted appeal. The lure's performance, however, is a double-edged sword.While its hunched-back design enhances hookup rates by keeping the lure low in the water and providing a tight, predictable action, it significantly compromises casting distance and accuracy. This makes it ideal for shallow water scenarios where long casts aren't necessary but less effective in windy conditions or open spaces. Despite its effectiveness in attracting and securing redfish, be aware of the subpar quality of the pre-installed treble hooks, which require immediate replacement for optimal performance and fish welfare.
Pros And Cons
- High-frequency rattle simulates small baitfish or shrimp, attracting predators at close range.
- Unique body design helps with hookup ratio for redfish due to its vertical/45-degree angle in the water.
- Tight headwalk action, easily tracked by redfish regardless of retrieve speed.
- Does not cast far due to non-aerodynamic design; easily affected by wind.
- Inaccurate casting.
- Poor hook quality; hooks rust quickly and should be replaced.
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Lure Specifications and Rattle Comparison
The Yo-Zuri 3D Inshore Pencil is a 4-inch, half-ounce topwater lure featuring three ball bearings for a high-pitched rattle and two carbon steel treble hooks. This high-frequency rattle is a key differentiator. Unlike the low-frequency thump of a single ball bearing in many other topwaters, this lure's multiple rattles create a rapid clicking sound.
This high-pitched sound closely mimics small baitfish or shrimp, attracting predators from closer ranges. It's a more targeted sound compared to the broad appeal of a low-frequency rattle, which can attract fish from further away. The difference can be compared to the sound of a snare drum versus a bass drum - high-pitched sounds are more easily pinpointed at short distances.
Casting Performance and Body Design
The lure's design, however, impacts its casting distance and accuracy. The hunched-back, non-aerodynamic body shape is less effective in cutting through the air compared to streamlined topwater lures. This makes long, accurate casts challenging, especially in windy conditions.
The wind catches the lure at odd angles, affecting its trajectory. While it weighs half an ounce, it doesn't cast as far as similarly weighted, more aerodynamic lures. This limitation is less critical in situations where close-range casting is sufficient, such as targeting redfish in shallow waters.
Hookup Ratio and Lure Action
Despite the casting drawbacks, the body design has a significant advantage: enhanced hookup rates for redfish. Unlike many topwaters, the Yo-Zuri 3D Inshore Pencil sits lower in the water column, at an almost 45-degree angle.
This vertical orientation makes it easier for redfish, which feed downward, to get a secure grip on the lure. The tight headwalk action also helps by maintaining a predictable, easily trackable pattern for redfish, regardless of retrieve speed. This is in contrast to the wider, sweeping action of some other topwater lures.
Hook Quality and Recommendations
One significant drawback is the quality of the pre-installed treble hooks. They are prone to rusting quickly, even after a week of use. It's highly recommended to replace the hooks immediately upon purchase.
Consider switching to single inline hooks for improved fish welfare and landing rates. While this is a personal preference, using single hooks reduces the likelihood of deep hooking and injury to the fish.
On-the-Water Footage and Conclusion
The included on-the-water footage demonstrates the lure's effectiveness in attracting and hooking redfish. Its ability to stay low in the water and maintain a tight, easily trackable action are key factors in its success.
Overall, the Yo-Zuri 3D Inshore Pencil is a specialized topwater lure best suited for close-range redfish fishing. Its high-pitched rattle, unique body design, and tight action enhance hookup rates, while its casting limitations and hook quality are drawbacks to consider. Replacing the hooks is highly recommended.