RM Smith "Surf Strider" Spring 2007

A few weeks after hanging with Ryan at the Asbury show, I received an email from Ryan noting that I'd be receiving something he had been working very diligently on since we last spoke. Ryan said he had tested the proto's to the point his shoulder was worn out, and he was pretty certain he had a winner. He asked if I could test it and give him honest feedback.

The day I got the package I anxiously opened it as I had no clue what it was other than a top water type plug. I was immediately impressed at the off center turning. That is something I have no clue how to do.

My first thoughts where the Surf Strider reminded me of a surf board or a round bottomed sailboat (much faster due to less drag). I picked up my 1205 and headed to Peddie Lake which is a 1/4 mile from my home. I casted it and the line peeled off. I had to put on the brakes or it would have wound up in the woods on the other side of the lake :)

In a few casts I had the Surf Strider walking the dog beautifully. I then dropped my rod tip and gave it some good pulls and the plug looked like a bunker or herring trying to escape for it's life.

Next up I did a slow steady retrieve and found the lure swam beautifully like a darter! A top water lure that you can use as a darter. I was psyched! I love versatile plugs because you can switch up action/depth without changing plugs.

Once again, Ryan has created a wonderful plug. In fact, I bet the Surf Strider winds up being a signature plug for Ryan along with his peanut swimmers and Danny that have been so effective. It is definitely a one of a kind and I will be fishing it hard this season. I will report my results.

Brian