Among anglers and fishing enthusiasts, certain lures stand out for their versatility, durability, and proven success on the water. One of these standout baits is the Kelly Wiggler Shrimp Tail, a soft plastic lure that mimics the movement and profile of a shrimp. Popular in saltwater and brackish environments, this lure has been a go-to choice for catching redfish, trout, flounder, and more. Whether you’re a seasoned fisherman or a beginner just learning the basics of saltwater fishing, understanding the unique characteristics and proper use of the Kelly Wiggler Shrimp Tail can significantly improve your success rate.
What is the Kelly Wiggler Shrimp Tail?
The Kelly Wiggler Shrimp Tail is a soft plastic lure designed to imitate the natural movement of a shrimp in the water. Its shape, size, and flexibility make it particularly attractive to a variety of game fish. With a narrow body and curled tail, the lure creates an enticing swimming action that mimics live prey. The material used is soft but tough, allowing it to withstand multiple bites without tearing easily.
Design Features
- Curled Tail: Enhances natural movement in the water, mimicking real shrimp action.
- Textured Body: Provides a lifelike feel to fish, encouraging them to hold on longer after biting.
- Durable Material: Resistant to tearing and fraying, making it a cost-effective choice over time.
- Multiple Color Options: Available in a variety of colors to match water conditions and fish preferences.
Why Anglers Prefer the Kelly Wiggler Shrimp Tail
The Kelly Wiggler Shrimp Tail stands out for its consistency and effectiveness. Many anglers report frequent catches of redfish and speckled trout, especially in coastal and estuarine environments. Unlike some soft plastic lures that are designed for a single use or tear after one bite, the Kelly Wiggler is known for its toughness and ability to remain intact after repeated use.
Versatility Across Environments
This lure is effective in a range of environments, from muddy estuaries to sandy flats and grassy bays. It works well whether cast from a pier, kayak, or boat. Whether you’re fishing in Texas bays, Florida flats, or Louisiana marshes, the Kelly Wiggler Shrimp Tail adapts easily to local fishing conditions.
How to Rig the Kelly Wiggler Shrimp Tail
There are several popular ways to rig this lure depending on your fishing environment and target species. Rigging properly is essential to ensure the lure moves naturally and avoids snags.
Jig Head Rig
The most common method is to rig the Kelly Wiggler Shrimp Tail on a jig head. This allows the lure to sink and bounce off the bottom, mimicking a fleeing or injured shrimp.
- Use a 1/8 oz to 1/4 oz jig head for shallow water.
- For deeper water or strong currents, consider heavier jig heads.
- Thread the lure straight onto the hook to maintain proper balance and movement.
Weedless Rig
In grassy or snag-prone areas, a weedless rig is ideal. Use a wide-gap worm hook and insert the hook point into the body to keep it weed-free. This setup allows you to fish near structure without fear of losing your bait.
Best Techniques for Using the Kelly Wiggler Shrimp Tail
Once rigged, using the right technique will determine how effective your presentation is. The goal is to mimic a shrimp’s natural movement as closely as possible.
Slow Retrieve and Pause
A slow retrieve with intermittent pauses can trigger strikes from curious or cautious fish. This is especially effective for species like flounder and speckled trout that are attracted to subtle movement.
Hop and Drop Method
By lifting your rod tip and letting the lure fall back to the bottom, you create a hopping motion that mimics a startled shrimp. Redfish are known to respond aggressively to this technique, especially in shallow flats.
When and Where to Use the Kelly Wiggler Shrimp Tail
The best time to use this lure depends on local fishing conditions, tidal patterns, and seasonal migrations. However, certain conditions are almost always favorable.
Ideal Conditions
- During an incoming or outgoing tide when shrimp are active.
- At dawn or dusk when game fish are most aggressive.
- In warm water months when shrimp are a primary food source.
Hotspots
- Near oyster beds and grass lines where shrimp congregate.
- Along jetties, piers, or mangrove edges where predatory fish hunt.
- In tidal creeks and river mouths where freshwater meets saltwater.
Color Selection for Different Conditions
The Kelly Wiggler Shrimp Tail comes in a wide range of colors to suit various conditions. Choosing the right color can dramatically increase your chances of a bite.
Clear Water
- Use natural or translucent colors like white, pearl, or light pink.
- These shades mimic live shrimp in clear water with minimal turbidity.
Muddy or Murky Water
- Opt for brighter or darker colors such as chartreuse, purple, or root beer.
- These stand out more in low visibility and attract fish using contrast and vibration.
Maintenance and Storage Tips
To prolong the life of your Kelly Wiggler Shrimp Tail lures, proper care and storage are important.
- Rinse with fresh water after use to remove salt and debris.
- Store in a tackle box with compartments to avoid tangling or warping.
- Keep lures away from direct sunlight to prevent fading or melting.
The Kelly Wiggler Shrimp Tail is a reliable and effective lure for targeting a variety of saltwater fish species. Its lifelike action, durable design, and adaptability make it a must-have in any angler’s tackle box. By understanding how to rig, retrieve, and select the right conditions for this lure, you can improve your catch rate and enjoy more productive fishing trips. Whether you’re chasing redfish through marshy waters or looking for trout along sandy flats, the Kelly Wiggler Shrimp Tail is a tool you can count on.