Illex Nitro Slim 220
The Nitro Slim from Illex needs no introduction, a lure I particularly appreciate when fishing in areas with sandeels, especially at the start of the season, thanks to its adapted colors. This year, the range is evolving with the arrival of a large 220 mm model. This is precisely the size I've been waiting for when fishing deep wrecks.
I'll take this opportunity to match it with the new 90 g Nitro Slim lead head. This set promises to attract the big places, which will not fail to appreciate its presentation.
Following on from this, Illex's Fighter Jig in 55 and 75 g also attracts my attention. On paper, these jigs seem to offer very interesting versatility, with the possibility of using them for both casting and slow jigging. The colors offered are varied, and I can't wait to test them in real-life conditions.
Great news from Fiiish!
Last year, the Black Minnow family expanded with the arrival of the 2.5 size, measuring 105 mm. This lure completes the range with a size perfectly suited to river flows when prey is still small.
For 2025, new colors are available. In particular, I've fallen for the timeless Blue and Green Glitter, both of which are sure to impress.
2025 will also see the launch of the new Master Shad, a completely innovative lure which will arrive in stores in early April. This lure has been specially developed for line fishing and pulling, two techniques particularly appreciated by predators.
The Master Shad will be available in three sizes (75, 100 and 125 mm), with various weights to suit a wide range of fishing situations. It will be offered as a combo (lure mounted with lead head) or as a body-only version, allowing customized mounting with different lead heads.
I'll be sure to give you news of this lure as soon as it is used.
The last new feature to arrive directly in the lure box concerns the new Crazy Sand Eel colors. What a pleasure to see the arrival of Khaki Strike and Blue Strike.
I remember Electric Grey, which is no longer available and which gave me excellent results. With these two new shades, we're getting very close to that, and I hope to achieve equally satisfying results.
The Z-Claw in size 100
Let's move on to surface lures with the return, rather than the arrival, of the Z-Claw in size 100. Everyone knows the legendary effectiveness of this surface lure. No matter what the conditions, whether in rough or calm seas, it remains a top performer. What's more, it's a very easy surface lure to animate, which will delight beginners looking for a safe bet. It'll be back in the hard lure box in no time.
