We're looking for Writers! Contact Us
The Salmo Butcher is a versatile and effective lure that can be used to target a wide range of predators. However, it particularly shines when used to catch smaller predators like chub and perch. Its design and action make it an irresistible temptation for these species, making it a must-have in any angler’s tackle box.
The Salmo Butcher, despite being overshadowed by the more popular Salmo Rattling Hornet, is a lure that offers great value to anglers and should not be underestimated.
Although these lures share many similarities, it’s worth noting that the Salmo Butcher has a slightly slimmer profile, which results in a slower wiggle compared to the Salmo Rattling Hornet. This difference in profile can make a significant impact in the lures action, making the Salmo Butcher a valuable addition to any angler’s tacklebox.
What is the Salmo Butcher Crank Bait?
The Salmo Butcher is a versatile crank bait that comes in both floating and sinking versions. Having both versions allows you to transition smoothly between targeting fish feeding on the surface and those that have moved lower in the water column. This versatility is especially important when targeting perch that can be quite active on the surface and then suddenly dive deep. With the Salmo Butcher, you can simply switch lure type and adjust your fishing technique accordingly and maximize your chances of a successful catch.
As you reel in your line, you’ll notice that the Butcher’s movement is not as rapid as the Hornet, but it is still quite powerful. The vibrations it produces can be felt through the line and rod, instilling a sense of confidence that any nearby predators may be attracted to the distress signals it’s emitting and hopefully converting to a bite or two.
How to use the Salmo Butcher Crank Bait
When it comes to using crank baits, the key to achieving the desired action of the lure largely depends on how you handle your rod and reel. If you’re using the floating version of the Butcher, you have the option to speed-crank it in at a fast pace, which will cause the water to catch on the bill of the lure and drive it deeper and deflect off of structure. Alternatively, you could take a slower approach, pausing every so often to give the Butcher a chance to rise to the surface. It’s often during these pauses, or shortly after, that predators will take a bite at the lure.
When casting the sinking version of the lure, you may notice the extra weight of 2 grams, which will make it sink faster. This allows you to start your retrieve quickly and increases your chances of catching fish. The sinking Butcher offers various methods of retrieval, each of which is effective and worth experimenting with to determine what the predators prefer on any given day.
When it comes to choosing between the floating or sinking version of the Salmo Butcher, there are several factors to consider. One of the most important is the depth of the water you’ll be fishing in. If the water is deep, it may be more effective to use a sinking lure that can reach the desired depth quickly.
On the other hand, if predators are actively feeding near the surface, a floating lure may be more successful in attracting their attention. It’s important to observe the behavior of the fish before deciding which type of lure to use. If you’re having trouble determining whether to use a floating or sinking lure, you can always take a chance and simply cast your line and hope for the best.
Final thoughts
Crank baits are a useful ‘searching’ tool in any lure anglers arsenal and we shouldn’t be without them, but is the Salmo Butcher worth having if you already own a similar crank bait such as the Salmo Hornet?
Based on my personal experience, I have found that the Butcher and the Hornet lures are quite similar in terms of their design and effectiveness in catching perch and chub. However, the reason I own both of these lures is because they offer different actions on retrieval. I have noticed that in some situations, perch tend to follow the Hornet for a long time but may not attack it.
On the other hand, when I use the Butcher in the same spot, the perch tend to take the bait almost instantly. I believe that the slight difference in lure action, such as the slightly softer, slower wiggle of the Butcher, seems to work better in some situations. Conversely, when the perch are more active and frenzied, a more intense and rapid wiggle of the Hornet is all they need to take the bait.
If you want to catch fish on crank baits, having both the Hornet and the Butcher can help. While crank baits may be expensive, owning these two lures can provide you with everything you need to be successful.