Presentation
This new version is available in 2 sizes: 50 and 63 mm. At first glance, there's no difference between the classic and FES versions. Only the packaging (pink for the new version vs. black for the original) and the inscription on the underside of the lure can differentiate them.
When you pick them up, the difference in weight is quite striking. For the original version, the weights of the 50 and 63 are 4.5 g and 7 g respectively. For the FES version, the weights are 3.2 g and 4.5 g. The result is a lure that sinks but is much less dense than the original version.
These lures are fitted with trebles, so as usual when I'm trout fishing, I start by replacing them with single barbless hooks.
Test at the water's edge
After many months of closure, I first used the classic version to get the hang of it again. It's a very dense lure, which catapults to impressive distances. It can be used to fish strong currents or deep, calm areas fairly quickly. It's a rather technical lure that I wouldn't put in the hands of a beginner. But really, it's a trout magnet, as it proved again on this reel!
Now for the FES. First and foremost, it needs to be used with a broken ring or staple in order to give its full potential in common areas. Less dense than the classic version, casts are inevitably shorter but still go off very well. The lure sinks smoothly while remaining horizontal and is very stable in the water. It has a tight stroke with regular retrieve and shifts out of the water admirably with short jerks. It's easier to handle and therefore more affordable for a beginner angler.
It's a perfect complement to the classic version. It will enable us to fish areas with shallow currents, of course, but also to fish deep spots slowly. With these cold waters at the start of the season, slow fishing marked by pauses proved effective, and the first curious onlookers were quick to pay it a visit.
The 50 version is, of course, more discreet due to its dimensions. In shallow water, this can make a difference. Its stroke is also a little more responsive than that of its 63 mm big brother.
For this small version, I used a rig consisting solely of a single tail hook fitted with a small tinsel (mini assist VMC) designed to create a target when the trout attacks. It seems to be working well, and initial results are encouraging.
This new FES is therefore a great success and from now on will accompany me alongside the original version on all my trout outings. One regret, however, is that this new version is not available in larger sizes. Perhaps next year?
