The new 2024 FRANTIC series

The original FRANTIC series created in 2010 (and the first StrategicAngler® model to be released) has finally received a major update. In early 2023 I decided to experiment in making the 8.25 Frantic series a little smaller since we just moved to the Outerbanks and there were a lot more tuna casting opportunities. The Yellowfin and Bigeye here are on average around 30-60 lbs with some over the triple digit mark so a smaller lure would be awesome! After a year of prototyping the new Frantic series was released in the Spring of 2024.

Even though I wanted to make the 8.25 Frantic smaller I also wanted it heavier so it could cast as well as (or even better) than the original. With the release of the UV enhanced/clear Naia series in 2020 followed by the Proteus series in 2021 I experimented with different Frantic re-designs for over a year until I found the sweet spot: a 7 inch (180mm) UV enhanced clear solid cast body with a heavier ballasting system that comes in at just under 130g. The wire loops were also redesigned and now feature all teardrop shapes to allow a much looser action with any hook setup you choose. I found that the hardware on a shaped belly or tail hanger often limit the movement of a lure due to the split ring and hook sitting too close to the body. (The teardrop loops were a new configuration that was developed from the Naia and Proteus series since they only have a rear hook point).

The most significant attribute to the new Frantic 180 is the Dead drop. Cast the lure and leave it be. The new Frantic 180 has a very aggressive horizontal fluttering drop that shimmies and throws light from its internal reflective foil. This reflected light coupled with an all natural paint pattern on a clear Frantic 180 truly defines what a dead or dying baitfish looks like. Work it back with a twitch or another long pause you can also do a fast retrieve or a sweep and it will always frantically swim with a tight wiggle.

The new (clear) Frantic design will eventually replace the 8.25 Frantic FS/SS models (now a legacy model); once I use up all my stock of injection molded blanks.

The new Frantic series is only available as a Fast sinking model.

FRANTIC 180

Length: 7 inches (180 mm)
Average weight: 4 ounces (125-130 grams)
0.087 inch (2.2 mm) thick x-heavy wiring

CASTING

Orientation:
Horizontal sinking fluttering dead drop

Action:

Horizontal sinking flutter during freefall aka Dead Drop
Walk the dog with rythmic twitches
Tight dive/dart and swimming action (sweep)
Tight side to side swimming action (medium to very fast retrieve)

Retrieve speed:
medium to very fast

Skill level:
None to moderate

TECHNIQUE

The Frantic Series Lures can be fished in many versatile ways.

Swimming A medium retrieve will create a natural swimming action. It is important to keep the rod tip down to maximize the subsurface swim. No extra angler input needed. That's it!

A fast retrieve will make this lure vibrate frantically sub surface. The best action is achieved just before the lure starts to roll due to imbalance so it is advisable to swim the lures prior to use. The faster you retrieve the faster it vibrates in a frantic state. Pause in between fast cranks you never know what just might hit it. Great technique for covering more ground or for fast ambush predators such as barracuda king mackerel and bluefish.

Dive and Roll Cast the lure. Give it a few seconds so that it orients itself in the water. With the rod tip down pull the rod with one smooth sweep to the right (or left). Pause for a few seconds. Slowly point the rod to the direction of the lure while retrieving the line with a few cranks of the reel. Repeat. This action will entice a wary fish to strike because it mimics a stunned or dying fish. The sweeping motion will cause the lure to dive down and roll. The pause allows the lure to right itself with a horizontal buoyancy. This is its deadliest move.

Dead drop Cast the lure and let it sink as long as you can. Work back using a mixture of sweeps or twitches. Let it sink again. Most strikes happen during the drop (especially during blind casting) so always pay attention to your lines tension.

RECOMMENDED HOOK SIZES

FRANTIC 180

Belly/rear:
3/0 to 5/0 trebles
3/0 treble and 5/0 -9/0 single
7/0 to 9/0 singles

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Processing Time: Orders are typically processed within 2-3 business days.
Estimated Delivery Time: Delivery time varies based on location, but usually takes 1-2 business days from the date of shipment.
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Q

What is the Strategic Angler Frantic 180 used for?

A

The Strategic Angler Frantic 180 is a fast sinking saltwater fishing lure designed for targeting tuna, kingfish, barracuda, trevally, and other offshore predators using casting and retrieval techniques.

Q

Is the Strategic Angler Frantic 180 good for tuna fishing?

A

Yes. The Strategic Angler Frantic 180 was specifically developed as a tuna casting lure and performs exceptionally well for Yellowfin Tuna, Bigeye Tuna, and other pelagic species.

Q

What makes the Frantic 180 different from other sinking stickbaits?

A

The Frantic 180 features a unique horizontal dead-drop flutter action, UV-enhanced clear body construction, and internal reflective foil that mimics an injured baitfish.