FFS Craw21 Lure

After several months of use, I’m genuinely impressed with the performance of the FFS Craw21 lure, especially when it comes to finesse fishing. For anglers looking to target predators in clear water or pressured environments, this lure is worth a serious look.

First Impressions and Design

The FFS Craw21 is a soft plastic crayfish imitation that stands out in a highly competitive market of creature baits. Available in a range of natural and bold colours, including green pumpkin, watermelon, and black & blue, this lure has proven versatile for multiple water conditions and light levels. It also comes in a couple of size options (60mm and 40mm), with the smaller version perfect for a more subtle presentation, and a slightly larger model for those times you need a bit more visual impact.

The material used in the Craw21 is soft yet durable, which means it can take several bites before needing replacement. When you first take it out of the pack, you’ll notice that the appendages are intentionally molded together. While this might initially seem like an oversight, it actually gives you the option to fish the lure in a more subtle, compact presentation or separate the claws for extra action. I personally prefer to pull the claws apart, especially on days when the fish are more active, as it creates a tantalizing fluttering action that looks very realistic in the water.

Rigging Techniques and Performance

The FFS Craw21 has proven itself to be versatile across different rigging styles. Here’s how it performed with each:

Jig Setup

For me, the Craw21 shines brightest when rigged on a simple jig head. I’ve had great results using the lightest weight possible (usually in the 2-5g range), which lets the lure sink slowly and gives it an enticing, natural action on the fall. The lightweight setup also keeps the lure close to the bottom, where crayfish naturally dwell. On retrieve, the lure has a great “scurrying” motion as it drags across rocks and debris, and the separated claws add just the right amount of life-like movement to attract attention. This setup has been especially effective for me in shallow, clear waters where subtlety is key.

Dropshot Rig

The Craw21 also performs surprisingly well on a dropshot rig. When fishing deeper water or targeting suspended fish, this rigging method has come in handy. I’ve found that the lure’s small profile and lifelike details excel here, as it hovers above the bottom and entices fish to strike. By pulling the claws apart, you get a fluttering effect that works wonders when combined with subtle rod twitches. It’s particularly useful when I’m aiming to keep the lure in a specific spot for longer, like when fishing around structure or vegetation. A ‘drop’ of around 1ft between the hooked lure and the dropshot weight is enough to replicate a crayfish’s swim action off the bottom.

Ned Rig

While I didn’t have as much success on a Ned rig, the Craw21 still has potential here for those who like using a stand-up jig. When rigged this way, it can sit upright on the bottom (when used with a mushroom type ned weight), and claws up, mimicking the natural defensive posture of a crayfish.

Durability and Overall Impressions

Durability-wise, the soft plastic holds up well despite its flexible nature. I’ve been able to catch several fish on a single lure before needing to switch it out, which is always a bonus. The detail on the body and claws, combined with the lure’s softer material, gives it a realistic texture and look that predatory fish don’t seem to hesitate with. For all its durability, it’s also flexible enough that the appendages have a natural action, especially once separated.

Overall, the FFS Craw21 has become a staple in my tackle box, particularly for clear water and pressured fishing situations. It’s a well-designed lure that’s versatile enough for different rigs, and the subtle details make a noticeable difference in performance. For anyone who’s looking for a high-quality crayfish imitation with the versatility to cover multiple techniques, I’d highly recommend giving the Craw21 a try. Whether on a jig head, dropshot, or Ned rig, it’s a solid performer that brings consistent results.