September Walleye Lure of the Month: Cordell Grappler Shad
Carl Cordell, Jr., who some say may be responsible for more innovations that any other man on the planet, was born in Benton, Arkansas in 1928. He got his fishing beginnings in Hot Springs, Arkansas, where his father had a boat landing. It was on this boat landing that Carl Sr. would encourage Jr. to go help all of the local fishermen catch more fish. He learned quickly what made fishermen tick, and this would help him to eventually grow his business.
He got his start in the lure making business after purchasing a surplus of B-52 bomber survival kits. The kit came with a knife, razor, twine, and a bucktail jig, and cost him $2 to buy. All he wanted was the bucktail jig, so he would save up all of his money to buy the box. This was an extremely expensive practice in the 1930's though, if you lost one. So he started making his own, simply because he couldn't afford to buy anymore!
Over the years, he has experimented with thousands of different variations, coming up with favorites like the Gay Blade, Weedless Banana Head Jig, Crazy Shad, and many others. This month's selection, the Cordell Grappler Shad, is one of the most popular walleye lures on the market. With it's realistic appearance, it features a natural eye and a body shape designed for the tight wiggling action that simulates the forage that is natural to predator fish. The tie point is another speciality - specially engineered to add strength and performance on a strong bill designed for high speed trolling or casting. This lure is great for heavy-duty split rings, and extra-sharp bronze hooks.
• Tight wiggling action simulates smaller baitfish in distress — prime walleye forage
•Designed in conjunction with anglers who know lures inside and out to include key strike enhancements
• Unique patterns include brighter, flashier colors
• Also available in more subdued patterns
• The crankbait choice for cold water conditions
• Realistic 3D eyes and gill plates for the natural look that separates Cotton Cordell lures
• True-running right out of the box
• Heavy-duty split rings and bronze hooks
• Cranks to 8'
• Trolls to 12'