DUO Realis Jerkbait SP PIKE

DUO Realis Jerkbait is one of the best-known jerkbait series from the Japanese maker DUO International. The SP PIKE version is tuned for pike: its colours imitate European fish such as roach (Roach ND), perch (Perch ND) and pike (Pike ND), and the 100 mm model has larger #4 treble hooks than the standard 100SP (#5).

The 100 mm model has a fixed weight and a low centre of gravity, so it moves steadily in the water and responds to all kinds of retrieves: on a steady retrieve it wobbles, and when twitched it darts precisely to the sides.

The 120 mm model is the flagship of the series. It has a moving weight and a tall, flat body, so it rolls steadily, darts sharply to the sides when twitched and gives off a strong flash. It is easy to rip without a lot of rod tension.

Both models are suspending (SP): during a pause the lure holds at the same depth, and that is exactly when pike most often strike.

Key features:

• 100 mm, 14.5 g, suspending (SP), fixed weight, running depth 0.8–1.5 m, #4 hooks
• 120 mm, 17.7 g, suspending (SP), moving weight, running depth 1.0–1.8 m

What it is for and what tackle to use

• Fish: pike; the 100 mm model also suits big perch.
• Where to fish: lakes, lagoons and rivers 1–2 m deep: weed bed edges, shallows and drop-offs.
• Size and weight: 100 mm, 14.5 g or 120 mm, 17.7 g.
• Type: suspending (SP) jerkbait.
• Rod: a spinning or casting rod rated for about 10–35 g.
• Line: 0.12–0.16 mm braided line.
• Retrieve: twitches (jerks) with 1–3 s pauses; in cold water the pauses can be longer.
• For pike: use a steel or titanium leader, for example the DECOY WL-12 EX Wire Leader.

The rod and line recommendations are a guide: they help you choose, but you can also fish with similar tackle you already own.