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What is a "slim" lure?
Shads are distinguished by their more or less imposing paddle, which generates strong vibrations. This type of lure is ubiquitous in our tackle boxes.
The second most common type is the Slug, a long-bodied, slender lure with no paddle.
Slims combine the best of both: a slender, supple body like a Slug, but finished with a small paddle, like a Shad. This shape allows the lure to vibrate at the slightest stimulus, making it particularly effective for slow, gentle fishing. It's ideal for soliciting fish that are stuck to the bottom or not very active, which would not react to a rapidly animated Slug.
Of course, the slim lure can also be used in areas with current, but it reaches its limits when the current becomes too strong, especially if the lure is relatively soft.
When to use slim lures
There's no single answer to this question, as slim lures are so versatile. Their great flexibility allows them to swim slowly and naturally. They are particularly at ease in calm zones or during slow linear animation through different layers of water.
It is of course effective in areas with strong currents, although I have to admit that it's not in such conditions that I find it most effective.
We often turn to a slim lure when hesitating between a shad and a slug. This interesting compromise makes it possible to adapt to different situations, whatever the type of prey present in the area. It comes into its own when sand eels are scarce and bluefish are not yet very present. In Brittany, this period often corresponds to the months of June and July.
Finally, slim lures can also be very effective vertically, for example close to slack water on wrecks. As soon as the current slackens, it's often the right time to put them into action.
Which lead head to use with a slim?
The choice of lead head depends above all on your preferences and the type of fishing you're planning. You can opt for a shad-type head, which accentuates rolling and makes the lure's swimming action more dynamic and attractive.
Conversely, tapered heads, like those in the Crazy family from Fiiish, are highly versatile and suitable for most situations. They come in a wide range of weights, making them easy to adapt to different depths, currents or types of animation.
My personal selection of slim lures
As you will have gathered, they represent a real compromise between shads and slugs. They adapt to most situations:
- high-current areas
- quiet areas
- fast or slow animations.
Their flexibility and versatility make them essential lures for maximizing catches.
Personally, I opt for Fiiish's Crazy Paddle Tail, available in all sizes. Its rubber is relatively soft, making it ideal for areas where the current remains moderate. It can also be used vertically, for example to track yellow spots.
Other models are available with stiffer rubber, allowing them to be used in different conditions
