The Road Test: Strike King Shadalicious Swimbait KVD Magic Soft Bait
The Strike King Shadalicious Swimbait KVD Magic Soft Bait promises to be a versatile weapon in any angler’s arsenal. Strike King is a well-known name in fishing, and the “KVD Magic” color is legendary, so expectations are high. This review dives deep to see if this swimbait lives up to the hype.
My quest for the perfect swimbait led me to the Shadalicious. I needed a bait that could be rigged in multiple ways and still provide a realistic action to entice those lethargic bass.
Upon unboxing, the baits had a supple feel, indicating good plastic composition. The KVD Magic color was vibrant and multi-layered, much better than many single-tone swimbaits I have used. They felt durable but not overly stiff; promising action in the water.
I was choosing between the Shadalicious, a Keitech swimbait, and a Zoom Swimmer. I went with the Strike King because of the proven color pattern and the promise of versatility in rigging options, and the slightly more durable plastic.
My initial reaction was excitement, tinged with a little skepticism. I’ve been burned before by baits that look great but fail to perform.
Real-World Testing: Putting Strike King Shadalicious Swimbait KVD Magic Soft Bait to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Shadalicious was on a local lake known for its clear water and finicky bass. I primarily fished it on a 3/8 oz jighead along weed edges and submerged timber.
The bait performed admirably, even in the clear water. The action was enticing, and the KVD Magic color flashed effectively, even in the sun. The Strike King Shadalicious Swimbait KVD Magic Soft Bait proved to be easy to use right out of the package; no tuning was needed.
I experienced a few short strikes at first, but once I switched to a trailer hook, the hookup ratio improved dramatically.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Shadalicious has proven to be surprisingly durable. I’ve caught multiple fish on a single bait without it tearing apart.
The plastic holds up well to repeated casts and retrieves, showing only minor wear and tear around the hook slot. Cleaning is a breeze; just rinse them off with water after each use and store them properly. The Strike King Shadalicious Swimbait KVD Magic Soft Bait outperforms other swimbaits I’ve used in terms of durability and action retention.
Compared to other soft plastics, it holds its shape and action better, particularly after being stored in a tackle box.
Breaking Down the Features of Strike King Shadalicious Swimbait KVD Magic Soft Bait
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Strike King
- Lure Type: Soft Bait Swimbait
- Color: KVD Magic
- Quantity: 6 per pack
- Length: 4.5 inches
These specifications are critical because the 4.5-inch size is a sweet spot for attracting both smaller and larger fish. The KVD Magic color is a confidence booster, known for its effectiveness in various water conditions. The quantity of six per pack is a reasonable balance between value and keeping you well-stocked on the water.
Performance & Functionality
The Strike King Shadalicious Swimbait KVD Magic Soft Bait excels at attracting bass. Its swimming action is realistic and enticing, and the KVD Magic color adds to its effectiveness.
The bait’s strengths lie in its versatility and realistic action. A slight weakness is its susceptibility to short strikes if not rigged with a trailer hook in certain situations. It meets expectations and even exceeds them, especially considering its price point.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent for a soft plastic bait. The materials used are durable and flexible. The weight is perfect for casting and retrieving.
The bait is user-friendly, requiring no special tools or techniques. There’s no real learning curve beyond choosing the right rigging for the situation.
Durability & Maintenance
The Strike King Shadalicious Swimbait KVD Magic Soft Bait will last a reasonable amount of time with proper care. I anticipate getting several fishing trips out of each pack.
Maintenance is simple. Just store the baits in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, and rinse them after use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Strike King Shadalicious Swimbait KVD Magic Soft Bait is versatile and can be rigged in several ways. You can use it on jigheads, weighted hooks, or even umbrella rigs.
It’s compatible with various hooks and jigheads from other brands. Experimenting with different rigging styles can dramatically alter its presentation and effectiveness.
Pros and Cons of Strike King Shadalicious Swimbait KVD Magic Soft Bait
Pros
- Realistic swimming action is highly effective.
- KVD Magic color is a proven fish-catcher.
- Durable plastic holds up well to repeated use.
- Versatile rigging options allow for different presentations.
- Excellent value for the price.
Cons
- Can be prone to short strikes without a trailer hook.
- The scent, while present, isn’t overpowering, which some anglers prefer.
Who Should Buy Strike King Shadalicious Swimbait KVD Magic Soft Bait?
Perfect for bass anglers of all skill levels. It’s especially beneficial for those looking for a versatile and reliable swimbait.
Those who primarily fish in extremely clear water and prefer highly specialized baits might want to explore other options. A good swimbait hook and perhaps some scent attractant are must-have accessories.
Conclusion on Strike King Shadalicious Swimbait KVD Magic Soft Bait
The Strike King Shadalicious Swimbait KVD Magic Soft Bait is a standout in the crowded world of soft plastic swimbaits. Its combination of realistic action, durable construction, and proven color pattern makes it a valuable addition to any tackle box.
The price is definitely justified given its performance and versatility. I would absolutely recommend it to any angler looking to improve their swimbait game. Give the Shadalicious a try; you might just land your next personal best.
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