Few lures have earned the legendary status of the Mack’s Wedding Ring Spinner, and in this “Test Tank Thursday” video, Rip Down from Holy Moly Outdoors puts this iconic lure through its paces, sharing firsthand observations and practical advice to help anglers get the most from their gear.
“This is the first kokanee lure I ever used, and it’s still one of my favorites,” Rip begins, underscoring the enduring popularity of the Wedding Ring Spinner among both new and seasoned anglers.
Testing the Classics: What the Tank Reveals
Rip starts by dropping the classic Wedding Ring Spinner into the tank, noting its signature spinning action. “You can see how easily that blade spins, even at a slow troll,” he points out, demonstrating the lure’s effectiveness at a variety of speeds. This is crucial for spring fishing, when both trout and kokanee can be finicky and often respond best to a subtle presentation.
Pro Tip: He recommends running the classic model on a leader of 10-12 lb fluorocarbon, trimmed to about three to three-and-a-half feet. “That length gives you the right action and keeps the lure away from your dodger or weight,” Rip explains, emphasizing the importance of leader selection for optimal performance.
Upgrades and Customization
Rip doesn’t shy away from tweaking his gear. “I like to swap out the stock hook for a wide-gap single,” he says, showing how a simple upgrade can boost hookup rates, especially when targeting kokanee. He also demonstrates the Kokanee Killer version, which features a glow section at the hook. “That glow can make a big difference when you’re fishing deeper or in low light,” Rip advises, highlighting how small changes can lead to more strikes.
The Double Whammy Advantage
The Double Whammy Kokanee Pro gets its own spotlight in the tank. Rip notes, “This one comes ready to go, with a Smile Blade and two hooks. It’s perfect if you’re just getting started or want to maximize your chances.” He suggests tipping the hooks with scented corn or a nightcrawler for added attraction, a tip that’s proven effective for both kokanee and trout.
Rip's Pro Tips
Throughout the video, Rip shares several actionable insights:
Action at Any Speed: “The blade spins at even the slowest speeds, so you don’t have to worry about trolling too slow for this lure to work.”
Leader Length Matters: “Keep your leader around three feet. Too short, and you lose action; too long, and it gets tangled.”
Customize for Conditions: “Don’t be afraid to swap hooks or try the glow version when the bite is tough.”
Tipping is Key: “A little bait goes a long way—corn for kokanee, nightcrawler for trout.”
Why the Wedding Ring Endures
Rip’s enthusiasm is clear: “It’s just a confidence lure. If I’m not sure what the fish want, I start with a Wedding Ring.” The test tank demonstrations back up his claims, showing the lure’s consistent, fish-attracting action and its adaptability to different fishing scenarios.
For anglers looking to boost their success this season, Rip’s advice is simple: “Keep it classic, but don’t be afraid to experiment. The Wedding Ring Spinner has been catching fish for decades, and with a few tweaks, it’ll keep catching them for years to come.”
Take these tips to the water, and let the Mack’s Wedding Ring Spinner work its magic on your next trip
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