When it comes to ice fishing or vertical jigging in cold waters, the right lure can make a significant difference in your catch rate. The Daredevil Red Eye Wiggler is one such lure that stands out for its performance and reliability, especially among anglers targeting species like perch, walleye, lake trout, and pike. Its classic design, combined with a unique action and color pattern, has made it a trusted tool in many tackle boxes. Whether you’re fishing through a hole in the ice or from a boat, the Red Eye Wiggler has proven effective in a wide range of conditions and continues to be a favorite among both amateur and seasoned anglers.
What Makes the Daredevil Red Eye Wiggler Special
The Red Eye Wiggler by Daredevil is not just another jigging spoon it’s a thoughtfully crafted piece of fishing gear designed to attract fish with both visual cues and motion. The signature feature of this lure is its realistic red eye, which mimics the eye of a distressed baitfish. This subtle but striking detail triggers predatory instincts in gamefish, especially under cold or murky water conditions where visibility is limited.
Its unique fluttering and wobbling action during the drop imitates a dying or injured baitfish, a movement that predators find hard to resist. The lure is also equipped with a treble hook at the rear, increasing your chances of hooking fish that strike from behind, which is common with species like perch or walleye.
Core Features of the Red Eye Wiggler:
- Metal body with attractive color patterns
- Signature red eyes for visual realism
- Center-weighted for a balanced, fluttering fall
- Available in various sizes to match target species
- Highly effective for ice fishing and vertical jigging
Ideal Conditions for Using the Red Eye Wiggler
This lure is primarily designed for cold water and ice fishing scenarios, but it is just as effective in open water when used vertically. The Red Eye Wiggler shines when fished slowly, allowing its natural drop and wobble to do the work. Because it’s made of durable metal, it sinks quickly, reaching the strike zone faster than many other lures.
In ice fishing, the Red Eye Wiggler is especially effective because of its visibility and action. Fish tend to be slower and more selective in cold conditions, and the fluttering motion of this lure can often be enough to provoke a reaction. When jigged just above the bottom or near submerged structures, it entices nearby predators to strike.
Best Scenarios for Use:
- Vertical jigging through ice or from a boat
- Cold water conditions where slow presentation is needed
- Murky or stained water where visual cues are important
- Fishing near underwater drop-offs or structures
How to Fish with the Daredevil Red Eye Wiggler
Fishing with the Red Eye Wiggler is simple but requires attention to technique for maximum effectiveness. The most popular method involves vertical jigging either through the ice or while fishing from a stationary boat. Drop the lure straight down to the desired depth, then lift and drop your rod tip to give the lure a dancing, fluttering motion.
As you jig, the Red Eye Wiggler wobbles and flashes, simulating a wounded baitfish. This movement, combined with its red eye and metallic finish, makes it nearly irresistible to nearby fish. If the fish are slow to bite, consider pausing between jigs to let the lure sit motionless, giving curious predators time to strike.
Effective Jigging Techniques:
- Lift and Drop: Raise the rod tip 6 to 12 inches, then let the lure flutter down on a semi-slack line.
- Short Hops: Use small twitches to create subtle vibrations in clear, shallow water.
- Pause and Hold: Let the lure sit still between movements to entice cautious fish.
- Aggressive Jigging: Use stronger lifts to attract fish from a distance in deep or stained water.
Species That Respond Well to the Red Eye Wiggler
One of the key strengths of the Daredevil Red Eye Wiggler is its versatility across different species. The lure’s shape and motion appeal to a wide range of freshwater gamefish. Depending on the size and color you choose, you can use it to target small panfish or large predators.
Common Species Caught with This Lure:
- Perch: Use smaller sizes in gold or chartreuse patterns.
- Walleye: Opt for larger models with silver or glow finishes.
- Northern Pike: Choose bold, flashy colors like red and white.
- Lake Trout: Go for heavier versions that reach deeper waters quickly.
Choosing the Right Color and Size
The Red Eye Wiggler comes in a range of sizes and colors designed to match different conditions. Choosing the right one depends on water clarity, light levels, and the type of fish you’re targeting. In clear water, natural or silver colors work best. In stained or low-light conditions, brighter hues like chartreuse or firetiger can increase visibility.
Color Tips for Different Water Types:
- Clear water: Silver, gold, or natural baitfish patterns
- Stained water: Orange, chartreuse, red-and-white combinations
- Low light or deep water: Glow-in-the-dark or UV reflective colors
Maintaining Your Red Eye Wiggler
To ensure the longevity of your lure, especially if used in cold or salt-infused environments, proper maintenance is important. After each outing, rinse the lure with fresh water and dry it thoroughly to prevent rust. Inspect the treble hooks for signs of wear or dullness and replace them when necessary.
Storing your Red Eye Wiggler in a compartmentalized tackle box will help preserve its finish and avoid tangles with other gear. Regular upkeep means the lure stays sharp, clean, and ready for your next fishing adventure.
Maintenance Tips:
- Rinse with fresh water after each use
- Dry before storing to prevent corrosion
- Sharpen or replace treble hooks as needed
- Store separately to protect the lure’s finish
Why Anglers Keep Returning to the Red Eye Wiggler
For many anglers, the Daredevil Red Eye Wiggler is more than just a lure it’s a reliable tool that consistently produces results. Its proven design, realistic appearance, and effective action make it a go-to choice, especially in challenging fishing conditions. Whether you’re fishing through thick ice or over deep underwater structures, the Red Eye Wiggler delivers performance you can count on.
With its time-tested effectiveness, the lure has earned a loyal following. It works well for a variety of species, adapts to multiple environments, and remains affordable and durable. In an industry full of trendy new gear, the Red Eye Wiggler continues to stand strong as a classic and dependable fishing lure.
The Daredevil Red Eye Wiggler is a staple in cold water and ice fishing. With its eye-catching design, fluttering action, and versatility across species and water types, it provides a serious advantage for anglers looking to boost their catch rate. Whether you’re targeting perch in shallow ice holes or jigging deep for lake trout, this lure deserves a place in your tackle box. Proper technique, thoughtful color selection, and regular maintenance will ensure that your Red Eye Wiggler remains one of your most effective fishing tools season after season.