Gear Review: Shimano Macbeth Crankbaits

WHAT IS IT?

Shimano Macbeth Crankbaits

WHAT SETS IT APART?

The name Shimano is synonymous with high-end, precision rods and reels, but the company has also produced and marketed lures in Japan for many years. Shimano has finally brought a taste of this bait-building prowess to the U.S. market with its Macbeth line. Comprising six models, this family of crankbaits was designed to cover 0 to 5 feet with a variety of sizes and styles, all with precision internal weight placement and finely-tuned diving lips.

HOW DO I USE IT?

Starting with squarebills, the MB-63F is 2 1/2 inches and weighs 5/8 ounce, while the MB-50F is 2 inches and weighs 3/8 ounce. Both run 3 to 5 feet. The lineup’s largest, the 3-inch, 3/4-ounce Big MB-75 also runs 3 to 5 feet. For cold water or pressured fish, the MB-57F Flat is a 2 1/4-inch, 3/8-ounce floater, while the Shallow MB-50F (2 inches, 1/2 ounce) sports a wide round bill, which protects the front hook while reeling through obstacles in a foot or less. Finally, the MB-39F Tiny is 1 9/16 inches and weighs just 1/8 ounce.

HOW MUCH?

$9.99-$11.99

MORE INFORMATION:

Shimano.com

ANGLER’S INSIGHT:

With 10 color options, Shimano includes a couple of notable design elements into the Macbeth series. A one-piece molded internal weight concentrates the center of gravity, which allows the bait to recover quicker for more effective presentations. Also, the Macbeth Flat 57F benefits from Shimano’s JET BOOST lure technology, which leverages centrifugal force to stabilize the bait’s flight posture and improve casting distance and accuracy without sacrificing swimming action.