Smithwick Rogue Minnow Review

Hands-On with the Smithwick Deep Suspending Rogue Minnow

The Smithwick Deep Suspending Rogue Minnow isn’t just another lure; it’s a strategic weapon for anglers targeting deep-water predators. Manufactured by Smithwick, this 6-inch jerkbait is designed to dive deep, suspend enticingly, and trigger strikes from lethargic bass, walleye, trout, and salmon. Its reputation as a “secret lure of the pros” piqued my interest, leading me to thoroughly examine its performance and potential.

I was seeking a lure that could consistently reach and remain in the strike zone in deeper water, particularly during colder months when fish are less active. My standard shallow-diving crankbaits weren’t cutting it, and I needed something with a more deliberate, suspending action. The Smithwick Deep Suspending Rogue Minnow’s ability to dive to 10 feet (and troll even deeper) while maintaining a neutral buoyancy promised to be the solution.

The Smithwick Deep Suspending Rogue Minnow came in a simple blister pack, showcasing the lure in all its glory. My first impression was that it was longer and more slender than I anticipated. The chrome and black color pattern I chose was incredibly flashy, promising high visibility in murky water. It felt surprisingly lightweight for its size, a crucial factor for achieving that perfect suspending action.

Compared to a Rapala Husky Jerk or a Lucky Craft Pointer 100, the Smithwick Deep Suspending Rogue Minnow is noticeably longer. While the Husky Jerk offers a similar suspending action, it doesn’t reach the same depths as the Rogue. The Lucky Craft Pointer, known for its erratic darting action, is significantly more expensive. The Rogue promised a balance of depth, action, and affordability that intrigued me.

Initial excitement was my dominant emotion. The sleek profile, the sharp #4 hooks, and the promise of deep-water success all contributed to my eagerness to get it wet. There was a slight concern about the durability of the plastic, but overall, I felt confident that the Smithwick Deep Suspending Rogue Minnow would deliver.

Real-World Testing: Putting Smithwick Deep Suspending Rogue Minnow to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Smithwick Deep Suspending Rogue Minnow on a local reservoir known for its deep channels and abundant walleye population. The water was slightly stained, and the air temperature was a chilly 45 degrees Fahrenheit. I targeted areas near submerged timber and rocky drop-offs, where walleye often hold.

The Rogue performed admirably in these conditions. It cast well, reaching considerable distances with minimal effort. Achieving the advertised 10-foot diving depth required a steady retrieve and a slight pause after casting, allowing the lure to “work” its way down. The suspending action was truly impressive. It hung almost motionless in the water column, mimicking an injured baitfish perfectly.

Initially, I was overworking the lure with aggressive jerks. I soon realized that subtle twitches and pauses were far more effective in triggering strikes. No issues were encountered during the initial testing.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Smithwick Deep Suspending Rogue Minnow has proven to be a reliable and effective lure. I’ve caught numerous walleye and even a few surprisingly large crappie on it. The color held up well, with only minor scratches from contact with rocks and timber.

The plastic body has proven surprisingly durable, withstanding numerous strikes and collisions with underwater obstacles. The only maintenance required is rinsing the lure with fresh water after each use to prevent corrosion of the hooks and split rings. Comparing it to other suspending jerkbaits I’ve used, the Smithwick Deep Suspending Rogue Minnow offers superior value for its price. Its ability to reach deeper water and suspend so effectively sets it apart from many competitors.

Breaking Down the Features of Smithwick Deep Suspending Rogue Minnow

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Smithwick
• Lure Type: Jerkbait
• Tackle Weight: 3/8 oz
• Length: 6 in
• Hook Type: Jerkbait (Size #4)
• Buoyancy: Suspending
• Lure Type: Cast and Retrieve
• Species: Walleye, Trout, Bass, Salmon

These specifications are crucial for understanding the lure’s intended use and performance. The 6-inch length presents a sizable profile, appealing to larger, predatory fish. The suspending buoyancy allows anglers to present the lure in the strike zone for extended periods, enticing even the most finicky fish.

Performance & Functionality

The Smithwick Deep Suspending Rogue Minnow excels at targeting fish in deeper water with a slow, deliberate presentation. Its suspending action is its greatest strength. It allows the lure to remain in the strike zone for an extended period, triggering strikes from inactive fish. One area for improvement is the hook hangers. They could be made from a thicker gauge wire.

The Smithwick Deep Suspending Rogue Minnow met my expectations. It consistently catches fish in conditions where other lures fail.

Design & Ergonomics

The Smithwick Deep Suspending Rogue Minnow’s slender, minnow-like profile is visually appealing and effectively mimics the natural prey of many game fish. The lure feels well-balanced in hand. The lightweight construction aids in achieving the desired suspending action.

The lure is straightforward to use. Its effectiveness relies more on the angler’s understanding of fish behavior and presentation techniques.

Durability & Maintenance

The plastic body of the Smithwick Deep Suspending Rogue Minnow appears durable enough for regular use. The quality of the hooks is adequate but upgrading them would significantly improve the hook-up ratio. Maintenance is minimal. Rinsing after use is generally sufficient.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Smithwick Deep Suspending Rogue Minnow doesn’t come with any additional accessories. Anglers can customize it by changing the hooks to a higher quality brand, adding split rings, or even adding weight to fine-tune the suspending action. Aftermarket stick-on weights are readily available and can be used to precisely adjust the lure’s buoyancy to suit specific water conditions.

Pros and Cons of Smithwick Deep Suspending Rogue Minnow

Who Should Buy Smithwick Deep Suspending Rogue Minnow?

The Smithwick Deep Suspending Rogue Minnow is perfect for anglers targeting walleye, bass, trout, and salmon in deeper water, especially during colder months when fish are less active. It’s an excellent choice for those who prefer a slow, deliberate presentation.

Anglers who primarily fish in shallow water or prefer fast-moving lures might not find this lure as appealing. If higher quality hooks are a priority out of the box, the Smithwick Deep Suspending Rogue Minnow will require immediate replacement.

Must-have accessories or modifications include upgrading the hooks to a higher-quality brand, adding stronger split rings, and experimenting with stick-on weights to fine-tune the suspending action.

Conclusion on Smithwick Deep Suspending Rogue Minnow

The Smithwick Deep Suspending Rogue Minnow is a highly effective and affordable lure for anglers targeting deep-water predators. Its suspending action is a game-changer, allowing for a slow, deliberate presentation that triggers strikes from even the most lethargic fish.

The price is definitely justified for the performance offered. The Smithwick Deep Suspending Rogue Minnow punches far above its weight class.

I would absolutely recommend the Smithwick Deep Suspending Rogue Minnow to any angler looking to improve their deep-water fishing game. Don’t let the simple design fool you; this lure is a true fish-catching machine. Get yourself a Smithwick Deep Suspending Rogue Minnow and experience the thrill of deep-water success!