Illex Chubby Minnow 35SP Lure Crankbait 2.3g

Illex Chubby Minnow 35 SP: the 35 mm minnow lure for wary trout and perch

When fish no longer respond to larger baits, restraint is the key to success. The Illex Chubby Minnow 35 SP is made for exactly that: a notably quiet minnow lure measuring just 35 mm, which works without a rattle chamber and convinces through its action alone. Among finesse anglers it has quickly established itself as one of the go-to Illex lures.

Action and weight system

The lure draws its 2.3 g from a compact tungsten ball. The dense material allows casting distances you would hardly expect from fishing lures of this size. In the water it combines a sideways wobble with a slight roll. As a suspender it holds its depth during the pause instead of sinking, giving the fish that decisive second to take hold.

Running depth and retrieve

The running range lies between 0.1 and 0.5 m. This lets you cover shallow margins, drop-offs at trout lakes, weed beds and clear streams in a targeted way. Short rod taps followed by a standing pause have proved effective, as has a slow, even retrieve. Two ST36BC size 14 trebles are matched to fine lines and soft rod tips.

Target species and waters

Among trout lures this model proves itself at trout lakes and in flowing water where rainbow trout are keyed in on small prey fish. As a perch hardbait it suits harbour basins, groyne fields and jetties. In summer it also outwits cautious chub; in shallow, clear stretches zander come as a bonus catch.

The key points at a glance

• 35mm and 2.3g for ultra-fine fishing on wary fish
• Suspender: holds its running depth during the pause
• Tungsten ball for casting distance despite minimal lure size
• Quiet action without a rattle chamber for heavily fished waters
• Running range of 0.1 to 0.5m for shallow and clear water