Among the many artificial baits that have earned a place in tackle boxes around the world, the One Eye Wiggler fishing lure stands out as a unique and effective option for targeting a variety of freshwater and saltwater game fish. With its distinctive design, subtle action, and proven success rate, this lure has gained attention from both professional and casual anglers. Whether you fish in lakes, rivers, or coastal waters, understanding how the One Eye Wiggler works and when to use it can significantly improve your catch rate.
What Is a One Eye Wiggler?
Design and Appearance
The One Eye Wiggler is a soft plastic fishing lure that features a realistic fish-like profile with a single large eye hence the name. Its body is flexible and often ribbed, allowing for lifelike movement in the water. The large eye gives it an aggressive and predatory look, making it a visible and enticing target for curious fish.
Wiggling Action
This lure is known for its subtle yet continuous wiggling motion, which is triggered with even the slightest retrieval or movement. The tail section, often shaped like a paddle or curled, responds quickly to water flow and rod action, simulating the motion of an injured or escaping baitfish.
Benefits of Using a One Eye Wiggler
What sets this lure apart from others is its ability to mimic both visual and mechanical signals that trigger a predatory response in fish. Here are several reasons why anglers choose the One Eye Wiggler:
- Realistic movement: Its wiggling motion imitates a live baitfish.
- High visibility: The prominent single eye helps draw attention.
- Versatile application: Effective in both clear and murky waters.
- Multi-species attraction: Attracts bass, pike, walleye, redfish, snook, and more.
- Compatible with different rigs: Can be used with jig heads, weedless hooks, Carolina rigs, or drop shots.
Target Species
Freshwater Fish
In lakes and rivers, the One Eye Wiggler is especially popular for targeting species such as:
- Largemouth and smallmouth bass
- Pike and muskie
- Walleye
- Trout
- Crappie and perch
Saltwater Fish
Along coastal areas, this lure works well for inshore saltwater species like:
- Redfish
- Snook
- Flounder
- Speckled trout
- Striped bass
How to Rig a One Eye Wiggler
Jig Head Rig
The most common way to fish the One Eye Wiggler is with a jig head. Choose a jig weight suitable for your fishing depth and conditions. Thread the lure onto the hook so it sits straight, ensuring natural action in the water.
Texas Rig
For weedless presentation, the Texas rig is ideal. Use a worm hook and rig the lure so the point is buried slightly in the body. This is perfect for fishing in heavy cover or around submerged vegetation.
Drop Shot
When fishing vertically or in colder water, a drop shot rig lets the wiggler hover just off the bottom. This can be very effective for finicky fish that are not actively chasing lures.
Techniques for Fishing a One Eye Wiggler
Steady Retrieve
Cast the lure and reel it back at a consistent pace. The tail will wobble naturally, creating a steady swimming action. This is effective in open water or along structure.
Hop and Pause
Let the lure sink, then lift your rod tip to make it hop off the bottom. Pause briefly between hops to let the lure settle. This imitates a baitfish feeding or resting and often triggers reaction bites.
Slow Drag
Drag the lure slowly along the bottom, mimicking a wounded or slow-moving prey. Use this method during colder months when fish are less active.
Best Conditions for Using a One Eye Wiggler
Water Clarity
This lure performs well in both clear and stained water. In clear water, its natural movement and profile do the work. In murky conditions, the wiggling action and prominent eye help it remain visible and attractive.
Time of Day
The One Eye Wiggler can be used during any part of the day. Early morning and late evening tend to be more productive, especially in the warmer months, when predatory fish are actively feeding.
Seasonal Tips
- Spring: Use slow retrieves near spawning areas.
- Summer: Target shady structures or deeper water mid-day.
- Fall: Fish aggressively near baitfish schools.
- Winter: Go slow with vertical presentations like drop shotting.
Color Selection
Color can make a big difference depending on water conditions and fish behavior. Popular color choices include:
- Natural shad or silver: Great for clear water and sunny days.
- Chartreuse or firetiger: Ideal for murky water or low-light conditions.
- Dark green or black: Effective in muddy water or at night.
- White or pearl: A versatile all-around choice.
Storage and Maintenance
Proper Storage
Keep your soft plastic lures in a dedicated tackle tray to avoid deformation. Do not mix different types of plastics, as they can melt or stain each other. Use resealable bags if the lures come with scent additives.
Check for Wear
After a few fish, inspect the lure for tears, especially around the hook point. Replace damaged lures to maintain effective presentation.
Tips for Maximizing Success
- Use scent attractants to enhance realism and draw more strikes.
- Adjust retrieval speed based on fish activity levels.
- Match the hook size and weight to the lure for proper balance.
- Vary your technique until you find what the fish respond to.
- Pay attention to bite windows and moon phases for better timing.
The One Eye Wiggler fishing lure is a highly effective and versatile bait that every angler should consider adding to their arsenal. With its lifelike motion, attention-grabbing eye, and adaptability to various rigs and techniques, it excels in both freshwater and saltwater environments. Whether you’re targeting bass in a calm lake or redfish along a coastal flat, the One Eye Wiggler offers consistent performance and undeniable fish-catching appeal. Take the time to learn how to rig and retrieve it properly, and it will likely become one of your go-to lures for many fishing adventures to come.