TOP 10 Best Balancers for Winter Fishing

Rating of balancers for winter fishing

Before compiling the TOP, more than 80 customer reviews were studied, which helped select 30 popular balancers. Fishermen and sellers were consulted to identify the strengths and weaknesses of each.

When arranging the rating positions, special attention was paid to the following characteristics:

Type of fish – for pike, pike perch or perch;
Nature of the game;
Weight, shape and material;
Variety of colors and sizes;
Possibility of use during currents;
Build quality;
Number of hooks, degree of sharpness and size;
Application of phosphorus or ultraviolet paints;
Optimal depth;
Type of connection between the tail section and the body - fastening or casting;
The presence of a decorative element and fastener on the tee;
Level of realism of appearance.

Also determining factors in the selection were the reputation of the brands, the resistance of the design to low temperatures, the possibility of fishing from a hole and a boat, and value for money. The review and comparison of the parameters of each candidate resulted in 10 leaders.

Balancers for winter fishing for pike

Such products are characterized by a wide trajectory of movement, fast and sweeping play. They are equipped with large and durable hooks and show high performance both in shallow water and in deep water. VyborExpert specialists reviewed the characteristics of 6 applicants. After comparing them, 3 winners received the highest score.

Lucky John Classic 6

A classic model that is very popular among anglers due to its sweeping and fast play. The product is equipped with a large tail (10 mm) made of hard and frost-resistant ABS plastic. It allows the balancer to move a fairly large distance from the hole by moving along a wide trajectory, attracting fish located at some distance from the fishing point.

The special design of one of the best balancers for winter provides excellent underwater pirouettes at the slightest change in the direction of the leash, which greatly facilitates the fisherman’s work. The hook and tee of high quality from the leaders or “Owne” are responsible for the hook. Their advantageous location on the belly and tail significantly increases the likelihood of a successful hooking outcome.

In addition to pike, the Lucky John Classic 6 is suitable for catching bass, perch and pike perch. The optimal ratio of size (60 mm) and weight (18 g) of the artificial bait makes it possible to use it at a depth of up to 3 m in low currents and up to 13 m in conditions where there is no current. To effectively attract pike, the red color scheme of the lower part of the model’s body and the bead located on the tee are used.

Advantages:

Suitable for both vertical lure fishing from a hole and from a drifting boat;
Excellent hydrodynamic properties;
The series includes 7 standard sizes;
Versatility;
Low cost.

Flaws:

Not detected.

For a good catch, it is recommended to use an elastic leash. The optimal diameter of braided and monofilament fishing line is from 0.11 to 0.15 and from 0.18 to 0.25 mm, respectively.

Nils Master Nisa

The teardrop-shaped Finnish bait successfully imitates appetizing and desirable prey for predators in the form of a well-fed fry. A special feature of Nils Master Nisa is the presence of two lateral fins. They provide smooth, realistic movement of the balance bar and act as a stabilizer, thanks to which the product is characterized by stable play.

The wide tail creates sweeping vibrations, thereby effectively attracting fish distant from the hole. The belly tee with a colored drop-shaped bead, which attracts the fish at an early stage of diving into the hole, helps to minimize the number of idle bites. The treble hook is attached with a clasp, so it can always be easily unfastened if desired.

Advantages:

Durable paint and varnish coating;
Sharp hooks;
16 color options;
Optimal ratio of length (4 cm) and weight (7 g);
High quality production.

Flaws:

Somewhat high cost.

Nils Master Nisa shows the greatest efficiency at a depth of up to 3 m, but the model can also be used at 5 m.

Kuusamo Tasapaino X-PRO

The plastic tail part of the winter balancer for pike is not attached to the body, but is fused together with the lead body, which distinguishes the product from many other models. This provides high structural strength that can easily withstand pike bites. This solution made it possible to achieve a smooth transition from bright red to the current color of the body, making it as similar as possible to a fry.

The asymmetrical structure of the tail gives the bait a smooth and vibrating action, reminiscent of the behavior of a wounded fish. An additional effective way to pass off a product as a real fry is to use a perforated coating that perfectly imitates the scales of an aquatic animal.

The Kuusamo Tasapaino X-PRO performs pronounced figure-eight turns even with short rod movements. This ensures high-quality performance of the game both in still waters and in the river. The balancer allows you to attract prey located not only near the hole, but also at great distances from it. It has proven itself well in working from a boat, especially when it is moving.

Advantages:

Can be used for fishing both in winter and summer;
High-quality coating;
Excellent flexibility and dynamism;
Good size (5 cm) with low weight (6 g);
A large number of colors (more than 20 pcs.).

Flaws:

High price.

The decision in favor of an asymmetrical structure of the tail section eliminated the possibility of snagging on snags, which significantly extends the life of the bait.

Features of catching perch on a balance beam

Using a bait in the form of a balancer, an angler can count on both perch and pike with zander. The success of fishing depends on constant movement and good knowledge of the area. The balancer is available in different colors, but the most catchy and popular are those painted in bright colors.

When located at shallow depths, you should use a light-weight bait, taking short pauses (no more than 10 seconds) between plays. During fishing, movements become sharp, but neat.

The balancer is similar in its characteristics to the spinner, but has distinctive features that increase its effectiveness:

The appearance is similar to that of a juvenile, attracting predators. The tail unit adds additional similarity.
Thanks to the precise centering of the fastening ring, the balancer is constantly in a horizontal position, reminiscent of a live fish in its behavior.

The tee located under the belly increases the chance of a successful bite.
A wide range of colors and weights ensures successful selection of bait depending on the parameters of the perch.

Balancers for winter fishing for pike perch

Such models are characterized by active play and work well at different levels of depth. To attract picky individuals, ultraviolet and phosphorus paints are often used when painting a product. After studying and comparing the characteristics of 7 candidates, 3 leaders were selected, characterized by the best catchability.

Akara Bleak

One of the best balancers for ice fishing is characterized by an elongated flat shape. It has a flattened abdomen and a large caudal fin that acts as a stabilizer. This design, together with the optimal weight (8 g) and size (55 mm), is characterized by a high-amplitude and stable game that can provoke even the most lethargic fish.

In order for the bait to describe a loop and turn 180 degrees when returning, even a short wave of the winter fishing rod is enough. During the second dash, Akara Bleak performs advantageous moves in the other direction. The advantage of the model is that it is painted using phosphorus and ultraviolet paints, which significantly affects the success of fishing in deep water areas and at night.

High-strength hooks and a devil with a colored decorative element from Japanese significantly increase the chances of effective hooking. The lower tee is attached to a convenient clasp, so it can be quickly removed if necessary. The bait is suitable for fishing from ice and vertically from a boat.

Advantages:

Low cost;
13 color options;
Suitable for hunting perch and pike;
Sharp hooks;
Wear resistance.

Flaws:

Not detected.

The tail part of the product is made of durable polymer that is resistant to low temperatures. It is securely attached to the body and does not lose elasticity in severe frosts.

Rapala Jigging Rap

The balancer was designed for ice fishing, but has also proven itself in vertical hunting from a boat. Due to the possibility of using wiring with different amplitudes of strokes and lifts, the product is very popular among both professionals and amateur fishermen.

Thanks to the very realistic imitation of fry, the bait is highly effective even during the low-biting period, which is especially important in winter. The Rapala Jigging Rap successfully provokes fish both near and far from the hole with an effective twitch action. Rapal is characterized by a sweeping loop and a smooth return to the starting position.

The body proportions of the bait (length – 2 cm, weight – 4 g) are optimized for hunting in waters with a depth of 2 to 5 m. It is suitable for catching small-sized perch and pike. But the greatest success has been in attracting pike perch. A wide range of colors allows you to choose gear for different bodies of water and any conditions.

Single hooks in the tail and head, as well as triple movable hooks on the peritoneum, contribute to the effective implementation of bites. The durable coating reliably protects the case from possible mechanical damage. The balancer for winter fishing interacts perfectly with light fishing rods for trolling with a specialized soft tip and a balancer gouge.

Advantages:

You can choose 1 of 6 sizes;
Environmentally friendly material;
Sharp and durable hooks;
High efficiency both in winter and summer;
Versatility.

Flaws:

Somewhat high cost.

The product has undergone high quality control during manufacturing at a factory in Finland, therefore it is highly durable and wear-resistant.

Scorana Ice Crystal Mark2

The special feature of Scorana Ice Crystal Mark2 is its realistic, attractive and appetizing appearance thanks to its detailed design. A pronounced lateral part, a convex gill plate, shiny eyes and small scales with a voluminous effect will deceive even the most cautious fish.

The model has a maximum amplitude of horizontal deflection, which significantly increases the effective impact area in each hole and allows the use of a variety of animation methods. The measured but confident movement of the balancer has a relaxing effect on the predator. This forces him to blindly follow the “victim” to carry out a devastating attack.

Modern, sharp, large-sized hooks are installed here (2 soldered single hooks and 1 removable tee). They protrude significantly from the body, thanks to which they implement hooking even with the weakest touch of the pike perch. The function of the stabilizer is performed by a plastic translucent tail fin, securely attached to the body.

The product works great in holes and fairways and is characterized by uninterrupted play in both calm and flowing waters. An impressive palette of colors – from bright acidic to dark neutral – will please even the most capricious fish on almost any day.

Advantages:

Affordable price;
High level of catchability;
Does not require special fishing skills;
Suitable for beginners and experienced fishermen;
Excellent quality (designed by leading Japanese engineers).

Flaws:

Not detected.

Due to its large size (length - 8 cm, weight - 32 g), the product creates significant vibrations in the water, which makes it as noticeable as possible.

Technique for catching perch using a balance beam

Selecting gear and bait is only half the battle, because they will be ineffective without the correct application technique. By performing these movements, you will be able to quickly remember them and successfully apply them in practice. If the reservoir is unfamiliar, then selecting a suitable game will take some time.

The main secret to successful fishing is to create pauses. It is at such moments that the perch bite occurs. The balance beam imitates the actions of a wounded fry; the predator waits until it hangs in the water column and attacks. In this case, the point of attack always falls on one of the hooks, which guarantees a hook.

Any fishing technique begins with lowering the bait to the bottom. Then the game continues at a height of 15-20 cm. If warming is observed, the perch can rise to the upper layers. After performing short twitches, the balancer rises another 30 cm and moves to the side. Each type of jerk is accompanied by a pause.

After 3 minutes without a bite, the technique changes to a smoother one. From the bottom, the bait rises 60 cm upward with swaying, after which it freely glides to its original position. Another 5 minutes of attempts and if there is no result, the hole is changed.

How to play with a balance beam for perch

In addition to the standard technique, there are special methods of bait animation that can motivate a perch to bite:

Each rise of 1 meter is accompanied by a sharp shaking, reminiscent of freeing a hook from algae.

The bait sinks to the bottom and rises 30 cm up, then a period of free fall begins. After landing, a pause is made for 3 to 5 seconds and the action is repeated.

The method consists of sharp rises without falls. After reaching the bottom, the bait gradually rises by 15-20 cm with sharp jerks. A gap of 5 seconds is maintained between the “steps”. The lift is performed until the top is reached. In this case, any homemade perch balancer will do, since it doesn’t require any special play.

If the predator is located in the upper water horizon, then it makes sense to perform short twitches of the balancer, which cause vibrations of the tee.

The last option is to double lift. The balancer lowers to the bottom, then raises it by 40 cm, pause for 5 seconds, rises again by 40 cm and the same pause. After performing these actions, the bait returns to its original position and the cycle repeats.

As you can see, winter fishing for perch using a balance beam is an interesting activity that allows for all sorts of variations. Selecting bait involves determining the appropriate size, shape, weight and color. Gear is selected based on the expected size of the catch. The final stage is to check all the preparations on the pond, where the main task is to determine the game that is suitable for specific conditions.

Sources:

https://f1sh1ng.ru/lovlya/okun/top-reiting-luchshih-balansirov.html https://lykistreli.ru/balansiry-na-okunya.html https://rybak.guru/lovlja-okunja-na- balansir/

How to choose a balancer for ice fishing

The successful play of the balancer is influenced by the choice of leash. It is advisable to give preference to a flexible version made of twisted monofilament or fluorocarbon. If the frost is not severe, a braided braid will do.

Type of fish

Models with a wide amplitude of deflection during wiring and a large tee are relevant for pike. For pike perch and pike perch, products that can work well at different depths are suitable.

Materials

Balancers are made of silicone, plastic, metal and balsa (light wood). Such large and strong predators as pike, pike perch and perch can easily bite the product. Therefore, it is better to give preference to metal structures or silicone options, always using metal.

Colors

Pike reacts worse to bright colors, preferring natural or dark options. At shallow depths, pike perch are attracted to dark colors; at deep depths, light colors. Bright colors with the presence of orange, green and red shades are relevant for perch.

Dimensions

If the pike is active enough, models up to 90 mm are suitable. If there is no bite, smaller sizes are relevant - up to 5 mm. The size of the bait for pike perch depends on the depth of the intended fishing. Products up to 60 mm long work well up to 8 m; from 8 m you should pay attention to larger sizes - from 70 mm. For small perch, a balancer 2-4 cm long will be enough, medium – 3-5 cm, large – 5-7 cm.

Weight

This parameter depends on the intended game tactics, the size of the prey and the depth of the reservoir. The optimal weight for pike, pike perch and perch ranges from 7-20, 10-30 and 3-15 g, respectively.

Tackle for catching perch on a balance beam in winter

Correct selection of equipment requires a thorough preliminary analysis of the reservoir, as well as taking into account the expected size of the fish:

The fishing rod should be comfortable, made of non-freezing materials. The hardness is average, the length is about 30 cm.

The reel is a simple type - inertial, with a plastic base.

Monofilament line up to 50 m long.

The nod is hard, with a soft tip, capable of catching vibrations when biting. The choice of the right moment for cutting depends on the correct operation of this element. Typically, lavsan or a metal spring is used for manufacturing.

You should choose high-quality tackle, taking into account the possible bite of pike perch or pike, which are much larger in size and offer greater resistance.

Which balancer is better for winter fishing?

For targeted fishing for pike, pike perch or perch, you should choose the optimal shape, color, size, weight and other important parameters of the balancer. To avoid mistakes, it is better to pay attention to the specialized products presented in the review.

When determining which balancers are best for winter, you should pay attention to their features:

For those who like to hunt with vertical lures from a hole and from a drifting boat, the Lucky John Classic 6 is suitable.
If having a removable treble hook is important, then you should buy Nils Master Nisa.
Kuusamo Tasapaino X-PRO is characterized by maximum strength.
Akara Bleak is relevant for fishing in the dark.
Those looking for a versatile model that is suitable for both experienced fishermen and amateurs should buy the Rapala Jigging Rap or the Scorana Ice Crystal Mark2.
The minimum percentage of slips will be provided by Spider Pro 106.
If high efficiency at almost any depth is a priority, then you should choose Karismax Koko 3 color s3.
If you want to try out new models with an unusual shape and a special character of play, pay attention to the Aqua Demon Jig-2.
A good option for fishing in various bodies of water, including those with currents and depths from 1.5 to 4 m – Lucky John Pliant.

Correctly selected balancers will help you get a good catch in winter. The rating presents the most catchy, reliable, effective and functional baits from cheap to expensive options.

Photo of balancer for perch

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